Massage in the Workplace: Wellness and Productivity

Most of us understand the benefits of massage. From relieving the physical discomfort of a tight muscle, to increasing blood flow, massages from 15 to 30 minutes have a definite impact on our wellbeing. But is that also true in the middle of a working day, when we need to remain resourceful and sharp?

Yes. And here is why.

1. More and Better Energy

Fatigue is often linked to muscular tension. This is because the energy resources (glucose, oxygen) that we need can get “locked away” inside tight muscles. A massage at work stretches those muscles, releasing energy resources and ‘feel good’ chemicals like endorphins back into the body. Releasing energy locked away in tight muscles with a good stretch, you get a healthy, free, and sustainable energy boost at work.

2. Expectation as Medicine – the Power of the Mind

Simply the placebo effect is real. Scientists have shown that the expectation of reduced pain, for example, leads to the production of chemicals in the body the actually do reduce the sensation of pain. The impact of a good massage begins when someone looks forward to it, especially after having had the benefits of massage in the past, and that this impact can be seen as soon as they make the appointment.

3. Blood Flow = Efficiency & Productivity

Most of us know that there is a point in our day when our energy seems to drop. During this afternoon slump, people often reach for more coffee, sugar and carbohydrates to keep ourselves going. Studies show that this is the least productive part of the day. Promoting corporate wellness, classic massage techniques increase healthy blood flow throughout the body, waking up all your cells and getting your brain back into action. After a short 15 minute workplace massage, employees become more alert, attentive to detail, and show increased rates of productivity.

4. Tension Creates Mistakes

Tense bodies are less agile and responsive, more prone to accidents and injury. Tense minds are more rigid and less likely to find efficient solutions. In addition, pain is even more of a distraction, and the more intense our pain becomes, the less we can concentrate on anything else. A 20-30 minute massage allows us to return to work with a clear head so we perform better, stay engaged, and avoid mistakes.

5. A Culture of Caring Matters

The way we see others being treated informs our reaction to a place. Workplace massage communicates the business’s investment in its people. Further, massage therapy can reduce anxiety, including in the workplace. Skilled professional massage makes employees happier, and happier employees make for better workplaces. It communicates a culture of care, corporate wellness and models healthy relationships and generates optimism. So, if you are looking for a simple and effective way to support your employees, workplace massage offers layers of benefits for the individual and everyone around them. The result will be a more efficient, happier team.