Chair Massage at Work: A Proven Way to Prevent Chronic Injuries and Boost Wellbeing
At YOLO Wellbeing, we’ve seen first-hand how small, thoughtful interventions can make a big difference to workplace health.
As pressure on employees continues to rise—especially in desk-based roles—it’s never been more important to prioritise proactive wellbeing solutions. Chair massage is one of the simplest, yet most effective ways to do just that. And at YOLO Wellbeing we can even provide our mobile therapy room if you are short on space, or want to offer 1-2-1 sessions in a safe space with complete confidentiality.
In today’s increasingly sedentary and screen-focused work environments, employees are facing a growing risk of chronic musculoskeletal issues—particularly in the back, neck, and shoulders. These conditions are not only painful, but they’re also becoming one of the leading causes of long-term ill health and early retirement.
Regular chair massage offers a proactive approach to workplace wellbeing, helping to prevent these chronic injuries before they develop. Performed fully clothed in an up-right chair, this focused therapy also supports better physical and mental health by relieving tension, reducing stress, and encouraging relaxation in a time-efficient and accessible way.
The Science Behind the YOLO Experience
The YOLO Experience Therapy academic trial provides compelling evidence of chair massage’s impact in the workplace.
Conducted in partnership with health and academic professionals, the trial measured outcomes across stress, musculoskeletal discomfort, and productivity. Results showed clear reductions in tension and physical discomfort, with participants reporting feeling calmer, more energised, and better equipped to manage their day. This demonstrates how preventative interventions like chair massage can help reduce absenteeism and improve long-term health outcomes.
Designed for the Workplace
What makes chair massage particularly suited to office settings is its minimal disruption and high impact. Sessions typically last between 15 to 20 minutes and are carried out while the recipient remains fully clothed, making them easy to schedule during breaks or even team wellbeing days. By targeting high-stress areas like the head, neck, shoulders, and upper back, chair massage helps combat the cumulative strain of desk-based roles—improving posture, circulation, and focus.
A Practical Way to Support Staff
As employee wellbeing continues to climb the business agenda, practical solutions like chair massage are more relevant than ever. With evidence-backed benefits and an approachable format, it’s a smart, scalable way to show employees they’re valued—while reducing the risk of chronic health issues down the line.
To learn more about how you can bring the benefits of chair massage into your workplace, contact us we are here to help.
6
May
According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), 17.1 million working days were lost to work-related stress, depression, or anxiety in 2023, making it one of the biggest threats to productivity and staff retention in the UK.
The challenge is clear: how can businesses move from reactive responses to proactive mental health strategies that actually prevent problems before they start?
6
May
Austin Gray, Head of Operations talks about supporting employee wellbeing in the workplace at Ribble Cycles
6
May
International DJ Mark Freejack enjoying a VIP wellbeing hospitality moment backstage at the Preston Weekender
