A rapidly increasing number of companies all over the world a realizing the benefits of massage and are heeding the call to provide massage therapy on site. Stress costs employers enormous amounts of money every year. Millions of workers are absent every workday due to stress related complaints. Numerous surveys confirm that workers perceive that they are under much more stress than ever before. Firms are curbing employee stress and absenteeism by offering heavily subsidized or even free massage treatment actually in the workplace. Increasing levels of competition and the pressure to succeed contribute to the stress in the workplace, which can have disastrous effects on our health. It is most unfortunate that so many individuals are dissatisfied with their jobs. This is hardly surprising in cases where the work environment is artificially lit, poorly ventilated, noisy and cramped. If the work is repetitive and boring and requires no skill this will also create a poor image of work. Since a major part of our life centres around our work we need to find a balance, combat our stress and enjoy our work.

Many studies have shown that a simple 10-15 minute seated massage enhances one's overall health and well-being.

Massage in the workplace:

* lowers physical stress and tension, which can lead to problems such as headaches, backache, neck and shoulder discomfort and eyestrain

* decreases blood pressure

* balances mental and emotional strain

* reduces insomnia and improves the quality of sleep

* relieves muscular and joint problems acquired during sustained or repetitive activities

* reduces tiredness and improves vitality

* stimulates the mind, increasing alertness and powers of concentration

* improves work performance

* raises staff moral and attitude so that job satisfaction is heightened and staff are positive and motivated.

An excellent, highly effective way to reduce your workplace tension is to employ the self-massage techniques described in Chapter "Self massage". You should also follow the simple exercises outlined in Chapter "A Healthy lifestyle". Try to swap an on-site chair massage regularly with your work colleagues. Some of the reasons you should consider a chair massage are:

* it's very convenient as there is no need to change clothes or shower

* it only takes 10-15 minutes - a massage can be enjoyed during the lunch or tea break

* it costs nothing

* the results are noticeable immediately

* it's easy

* it's safe

* it's both enjoyable to give as well as to receive massage.

This simple massage sequence only takes about 10 minutes and will produce excellent results.