Chair massage is an effective and affordable way for busy people to get the benefits of a full body massage without having to lie down. This seated approach to stress relief has been around for decades, and is an excellent way to treat many physical ailments like headaches, back pain, arthritis, and sports injuries.
There are many different techniques that can be used during a chair massage. These include a variety of stretches that are especially helpful for clients who are suffering from neck or shoulder pain.
Static stroking is another great technique to use during a chair massage. This is a gentle rhythmic motion that can be used to break up tension and increase circulation in the arms, legs, shoulders and neck.
To accomplish this movement, therapists should use their palms or the ulnar side of their hands, and it can also be done with loosely clenched fists, as well. This is a great way to warm up your client and begin their massage session, or to help them relax towards the end of their session.
Grasping is an important aspect of any chair massage. Using the thumbs, fingers, and elbows to grasp your client’s muscles can be very beneficial, particularly in the neck or upper trapezius area.
Lifting and kneading are other techniques that can be used to relieve tension and promote blood flow during a chair massage. These kneading and lifting movements can be accompanied by a few quick gliding strokes that can help your client stretch their muscles in a way that is more comfortable for them.
Some chairs also employ water to deliver a calming, soothing sensation during a massage. A series of nozzles on the bottom of the chair push water into a large membrane that sits inside the chair. This water sprays up through the nozzles, creating a sensation that feels similar to a whirlpool bath.
A few of these chairs are even able to adjust their massage patterns on the fly, based on what their users’ bodies tell them. For example, a Sanyo Zero Gravity Chair uses galvanic skin response sensors to detect changes in the user’s pulse rate and perspiration as they receive their massage. The chair’s microprocessor then alters its massage pattern to spend more time on the area that is causing the heightened response.
These chair massage techniques can be a big help in reducing the effects of stress on your body, and can improve sleep as well. This can be especially beneficial for those who are feeling anxious and stressed during the work day or in high-pressure environments.
The meditative-like calming effect of relaxation massages can improve mood and help you feel more positive and energized. This is important for any busy professional, as increased levels of stress can lead to more absenteeism, lower morale and lower productivity in the workplace.
As a result, corporate wellness initiatives are becoming increasingly popular. Among them are complimentary massages offered at work to reduce stress and improve health and productivity.