Top 3 Massage Tips
Feeling strained and stressed in your workday? Don’t worry, we are here to help.
In this topic, we will go through three massaging or relaxation methods that you can incorporate into your everyday life, and they don’t require expensive tools or specialised knowledge and yet effective. Here are some ideas to inspire you.
Tip #1: Neck & Shoulder Release with a Tennis Ball
Long hours at the desk can lead to neck and shoulder stiffness, which in turn can cause headaches and overall tension.
Sit up straight in your chair, place a tennis ball between your back and a wall / back of your chair.
Gently press your back into a ball, moving up and down, or side to side, to massage knots in your upper back and shoulders.
For the neck, use the tennis ball by gently pressing it against the wall and rolling it along the side of your neck. Don’t rush it in this step, slow down, and get the best release!
Bonus tip: Combine this with some light stretches — gently tilt your head to each side to stretch the neck muscles while massaging.
Tip #2: Self Hand Massage
Frequent typing or using the mouse can lead to hand fatigue, cramping, or even “carpal tunnel symptoms” over time. To avoid this, you can massage your hands easily using everyday objects, like a lotion bottle or any rolling objects, the ones that won’t break with applied pressure of course.
Start by stretching your hands, spreading your fingers wide apart and then making fists.
Apply gentle pressure with your thumb to the palm of your opposite hand, working from the base of the palm to the base of each finger in circular motions.
Spend extra time massaging the space between your thumb and forefinger — this is a pressure point often linked to tension relief.
Pull each finger gently and give it little squeeze and twist to increase circulation and reduce stiffness.
Bonus tip: Add some lotion if you want to enhance the soothing feeling of relaxation and reduce stiffness.
Tip #3: Foot Massage Under Your Desk
Standing for long hours or being stuck in uncomfortable shoes can leave your feet feeling sore and tired by the end of the day. A quick and discreet foot massage can be done under your desk using a golf ball or a small water bottle, here’s how you can do it:
While sitting, remove your shoes and place a golf ball (or water bottle) under one foot.
Slowly roll your foot over the ball, applying pressure to different parts of the sole, especially the arch and the ball of the foot.
For extra relief, freeze the water bottle before using it for a cooling, anti-inflammatory effect on you tired feet.
Bonus tip: Use this technique during a break a work — it can wake up your feet and improve circulation, leaving you feeling more energised.
Taking care of your body doesn’t have to involve expensive spa treatments or professional massage products. With just a tennis ball, your own hands, or any everyday objects, you can alleviate the stress and tension that come from everyday activities like typing, sitting, or standing for long hours. Try incorporating these massage tips into your daily routine and feel the difference in your overall well-being without breaking the bank.