Michael O’Keefe — UCOP Stress Buster
October 13, 2009 •
You might think of a massage only as a luxury in ritzy spas and upscale health clubs. But did you know massage therapy is offered right here within the Office of the President?
Since 1999, Michael O’Keefe, a certified massage therapist, has been helping staff reduce stress and tension through chair massages. Each Wednesday he brings his massage chair, soothing music and skilled hands to room 7307 in the Franklin building, where over 20 people—both regulars and newbie’s—stop in for a bit of relief.
“Chair massages are a good introduction to massages,” said Michael. “Many people come in for their first time a little bit nervous and when we’re done with the massage they always proclaim, ‘I don’t know why I waited so long to get a massage! I feel so much better.’ And usually, they’ll become a regular.”
Massage therapy is a drug-free and non-invasive way of helping to relieve pain, stress and tension. It can help you cope better with stress and has shown to be effective in helping to reduce anxiety.
“Stress affects performance. When your stress reaches a certain level it negatively impacts your productivity, your mood and the mood of others who work with you,” said Michael. “A twenty minute massage is like a fresh start. It will help you get more accomplished at work once you’re relaxed.”
Because of the increasing demand of individuals requesting massages in the Franklin building, Michael is considering adding an extra day to his schedule. If you’re interested in finding out more, you can stop by the 7th floor on Wednesdays.
Massage Therapy is also offered to employees in the Kaiser building. For more information regarding days, times and the massage therapist at Kaiser, please stop by the front desk in the main lobby.
Massage Therapy-Franklin Building
Where: 7307 Franklin
When: Wednesdays,10 am-5 pm
Cost: $1/minute; 20 minutes recommended; gratuity appreciated
Discount: $5 discount for first-time clients
Appointments: Call 510-384-9068 or sign up on Wednesday’s in room 7307 Franklin
CMT: Michael O’Keefe
Gift Certificates: Massage Therapy Gift Certificates are available (hint, hint to our managers).
Massage Therapy-Kaiser Building
For more information regarding massage therapy at the Kaiser building, please visit the front desk in the main lobby.
I would love to try chair massage at work, but wish the cost is a bit lower.
Does Michael have a website or e-mail address for ordering gift certificates or scheduling a massage?
It’s really a luxury to have this available right in the building!
A 20-minute massage in the middle of the work day sounds like a heavenly break!
For those of us in the Kaiser Building, Mike LaCroix is here Tuesday and Thursday afternoons. Even 15 minutes is fabulous!
I have recieved Mike LaCroix’s services and highly recommend his stress busting skills!
I meant I have recieved Michael O’Keefe’s services and highly recommend him!
Many thanks to Michael for providing stress relief services on-site, and to UCOP officials for recognizing the importance of healthy employees. Glad to see the increased interest in massage therapy!
This is such a nice midweek break that helps me get through the rest of the week.
I’ll be stopping in!
Michael, can you post an email or phone number so people can call or email to make an appointment with you? Thank you!