Image Source: startworknow.com
Office work environments can be pretty stressful. Not only mentally but physically too, despite our best efforts with ergonomic workstations. And, as much as we all know the awesomeness of massage for relieving stress, there’s nothing worse than an unwanted neck massage that just, frankly, stresses you out even more.
Safe for work Thai Massage to the rescue. The following 3 techniques are taken from the Thai Massage practice and can be implemented in the office (in a totally non-creepy way). As a lovely side-effect, your co-workers will also love you, not run from you. Before we start though it’s always a necessary thing to ask permission first. Try simply “I just learned a Thai Massage technique for relieving neck tension – would you like me to show you?”
Your co-workers don’t even need to get out of the chair for these:
Shoulder Girdle Stretch –
With their arm above their head, support the elbow and forearm before gradually drawing the arm towards you. Take some deep breaths here and communicate to find the perfect amount of stretch.
Warning…if they’re sitting in a rolling chair, make sure you stabilize it somehow. Otherwise you’ll just keep rolling them towards you.
Shoulder press –
Tilting their head to the side, gently start to rest a bit of weight into your forearm. Your forearm is resting into their upper trapezius, which is a really common area of tension.
Notes and warnings: a little bit of pressure goes a long way as the forearm is a really powerful tool, so go in really gradually and get them to tell you when you’re at the right pressure. Also, use the flat surface of your forearm – no digging in with the elbow.
Neck Squeeze –
You might need to sit in your chair for this one (depends on the height difference between you). Tilt their head forward and interlace your fingers behind their neck. Gradually squeeze the heels of your hands together until your co-worker tells you that you’ve hit the perfect pressure.
Notes: again, a little bit of pressure goes quite a long way in this position as well so go slowly.
Not only will you be a star in the office, but it also builds morale, increases productivity, improves focus, decreases stress and transforms the working environment into one that’s far more friendly and interpersonal. Once word gets out, don’t be surprised if you start to see a line-up at your workstation.
If you enjoyed reading this article, you might also like to check out “Do You Sit at a Desk All Day? These 7 Stretches Can Help You Relieve Tension“, “Keep Up the Pace: 3 Great Thai Massage Postures for Runners“, or “Thai Massage Poses for Gym-Goers“.
Leave a Reply