Chair Massage: The Perfect Solution for Those Uncomfortable Undressing

Introduction to Chair Massage: A Clothes-On Option

Many people who have workplace benefits that cover Massage Therapy don’t use them. Yes, there are actually people out there who don’t use their massage benefits! Baffling, isn’t it? Well, maybe there’s a reason. If you’ve never had a massage before, it might be intimidating to take off your clothes for a massage with a Massage Therapist you’ve never met before. Does this make you feel uncomfortable? Totally valid. What if there was a way to try out a massage and not have to remove your clothes? We’ve got you covered (both literally and figuratively)! You could try: 1) a Traditional Thai Massage (see my other blog post about Thai massage), 2) a clothes-on Sports Massage on a massage table or 3) a Chair Massage. In this blog post we will delve into the third option: Chair Massage.

What is Chair Massage?

A Chair Massage is a massage that takes place on a specialized chair that has been developed for Massage Therapy. It is padded just like a massage table and, therefore, very comfortable. There is a small shelf to rest your arms on, supporting shelves under your lower legs from knee to ankle, and a head rest that you put your face against to support the weight of your head. Your torso leans forward slightly against the body of the chair. (See the photo above). The chair can be adjusted to fit your body according to torso and leg length. This set up allows you to completely relax in a seated position, as you do not need to engage any muscles to sit up. 

How is Chair Massage different from a regular massage?

The first difference is in the positioning. A Chair Massage takes place in a seated position, whereas a regular massage requires lying down on a massage table. Chair Massage is much shorter in duration and will typically be 10-30 minutes long. A regular massage is longer; anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours. A regular massage is performed with oil because the therapist’s hands make direct contact with the skin. Clothes are left on during a Chair Massage, so no oil is used. The Massage Therapist, therefore, employs massage techniques that don’t require gliding on the skin. If a client requests a back massage with oil while on the chair, this can also be arranged.

What are the benefits of Chair Massage?

Chair Massage has the same benefits that regular massage has: increased relaxation, stress reduction, improved circulation and decreased discomfort, pain and/or muscle tightness. Other benefits of this wonderful form of massage include headache and migraine relief, increased energy and alertness, and enhanced mood and well being. It is a convenient and accessible option to those that prefer to keep clothes on or have limited time. Ease of setup for Massage Therapists allow for Chair Massage to be performed not only in a massage clinic but also in a corporate setting, at festivals, markets, malls, airports and various other events.

Are there limitations to Chair Massage?

Yes. Chair Massage allows good access to the back, arms, back of neck and into the side of the hips. Leg and foot massage is very difficult because of the positioning of the legs. With your face against the face cradle for the duration of the treatment, doing any kind of face work (in the case of TMJ release or sinus drainage) is not possible. The shorter time frame indicated for a Chair Massage means that your Massage Therapist may not be able to give you as comprehensive a treatment as a longer regular massage can offer. Depending on where you have a Chair Massage, if there is noise, distraction and/or a lack of privacy, that may deter from it being a relaxing experience. (Not an issue if you go to a massage clinic.) The design of massage chairs may not accommodate individuals with mobility issues or larger body sizes.

Is Chair Massage Right for You?

If you are uncomfortable to undress for a massage, Chair Massage is a good option. It is also a good way to transition into a regular massage sometime in the future if and when you are ready. (Or not! No judgement.) Many years ago, I had a male client that had benefits for Massage Therapy. During an initial phone conversation, he told me that he knew massage would be beneficial for him but he just wasn’t comfortable taking off his clothes. We discussed Chair Massage and he agreed to try it. He really liked it, came for another one weeks later and slowly progressed to having a massage on the massage table. For his first regular massage on the table, he opted for a shorter treatment and only took off his shirt for a back massage. (He kept his pants on under the sheet and blanket). Soon afterwards, he felt comfortable coming for a 1-hour full body regular massage. This client was the inspiration behind this blog post. To be clear, progressing to a table massage is not the goal here. I share his story because I was inspired by this man who just simply respected where he was at. Don’t let taking your clothes off be an obstacle to experiencing the therapeutic benefits of Massage Therapy. Book in for a Chair Massage instead!

I am available to do corporate massage at your office and can take a massage chair to your workplace! Check here for more information. If you are interested, please ask me for details.