Massage chairs help ease stress

By Beth Costigan
Reporter

There is now a healthy — and legal — way to relieve the stress of school.

	Phtoto by Sarah Borer
	Kyle Eilenfeldt, Arts & Sciences senior, tries to relieve stress during the school day by using one of four new massage chairs in the Skutt Student Center.

Since Jan. 20, students have been able to relax in one of the four new massage chairs in The Nest of the Skutt Student Center. Tamara Thibodeau, marketing/business manager of the student center, has worked with Connie Aliano, reservations/event planning manager, since the summer to get these chairs buzzing in the student center.

“I want students to feel like they have another place to go on campus that is comfortable and relaxing,” Thibodeau said.

Abby Taylor, Arts & Sciences freshman, frequently studies in the student center and lately has observed the persistent use of the massage chairs. She said students continually rotate in and out of the chairs, even as late as 1:30 a.m. A 10-minute limit has been implemented so more people can use the chairs.

“[The chairs] are beneficial for students to relieve stress without spending any money,” said Bridget O’Donnell, Arts & Sciences freshman. “I am sure they will be very popular.”

“I’ve gone running, I’ve played the guitar, and sitting on these chairs is by far the most relaxing thing that I have done all week,” said Eric Ruchensky, Arts & Sciences freshman.

“It’s like a deep tissue!” said Liz Beverlin, Business freshman, after selecting the rolling massage.

The Nest, which is the second floor alcove of the student center, has turned into the new place to be, with study spots, a pool table and the four new massage chairs overlooking the floor below.

“We will continue to make that area new and exciting,” Thibodeau said.

She said a flat-screen TV and fish tank may be in The Nest’s future.

The massage chairs also have an academic purpose.

“Anything that can reduce a student’s stress will help them in their studies,” Thibodeau said.