At first, the phrase "relaxing jobs" looks like an oxymoron. After all, your job doesn’t exactly go out of its way to create a calming environment—it’s not like you go to work to chill out. Workplaces are hotbeds of stress. Almost half of all working adults in the U.S. give fair or poor ratings to their workplaces’ efforts to reduce stress, according to a study by NPR, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.
But that's not the case in every industry.
Using Bureau of Labor Statistics and PayScale data, Monster found seven jobs that make use of atmosphere and ambiance to keep things tranquil for customers and employees alike.
Acupuncturist
Why: When your job involves treating patients’ ailments by inserting thin needles into their skin, it helps to create an environment where your patients are relaxed. For that reason, many acupuncturists’ offices are very spa-like, featuring soothing music, aromatherapy, and a generally calm setting.
What you’d need: Most establishments require that you graduate an accredited program and pass exams with a national certification organization. Many states also require a special acupuncture license or certification as doctor of acupuncture.
What you’d make: $49,945 per year
Find acupuncturist jobs on Monster.
Gardener
Why: The great outdoors offer a bevy of relaxing jobs. Trade florescent lighting for sunshine and fresh air—what’s more relaxing than that? You’ll get plenty of mood-improving vitamin D outside; you’ll certainly be active and limber, which will reduce stress; and you’ll get the satisfaction of growing and maintaining healthy plants for others to enjoy.
What you’d need: Most positions require a high-school diploma or equivalent, but if you’ll be planning gardens on a commercial scale, you may be required to have a bachelor’s degree. You’ll need extensive knowledge of local plants and shrubs, fertilizers and irrigation systems.
What you’d make: $29,400 per year
Find gardener jobs on Monster.
Librarian
Why: Is there any workplace on earth more stereotypically quiet than a library? Whether people visit a library for work or pleasure, you can be sure they’re there to revel in the peaceful, distraction-free environment in order to get lost in a good read. (Shhh.)
What you’d need: Most librarian positions require a master’s degree in library and information science. If you want to work in a specialized institution such as an elementary school or law firm, you may need additional qualifications such as a teaching certificate or legal expertise. Computer skills are a must for any librarian. View a sample cover letter for a librarian.
What you’d make: $59,050 per year
Find librarian jobs on Monster.
Massage therapist
Why: Getting a massage is a decadently relaxing experience for the person receiving the service, but the massage therapist also enjoys the calming benefits of the spa or salon where the massage is given. The rooms are typically small and comfy; the lighting is kept low, but not dark; there’s often a fountain or other soothing sounds in the background; and fragrant aromatherapy oils are often applied during massage. Many clients don’t talk much and may fall asleep during the massage, so you’ll definitely have some time with your thoughts. When it comes to relaxing jobs, this one is up there for sure.
What you’d need: You’ll need a high-school diploma or equivalent, plus a Licensed Massage Practitioner certification. If you work in a medical practice, you may be required to have additional credentials to accept payments from health insurance companies. View a sample resume for a massage therapist.
What you’d make: $41,420 per year
Find massage therapist jobs on Monster.
Sleep technician
Why: You know your workspace is relaxing when clients literally come there to go to sleep. Sleep technicians monitor clients during sleep studies and take vital signs and other measurements under the direction of a physician or medical director. The environment has to be soothing so the clients can fall asleep away from home.
What you’d need: To be employed as a sleep technician, more formally termed a polysomnographic technologist, you need to graduate from a diagnostic medical training program. You’ll need to get an entry-level Certified Polysomnographic Technologist or senior-level Registered Polysomnographic Technologist certification from the Board of Registered Polysomnographic Technologists. Additionally, many sleep techs have additional licenses, such as certified nurse assistant or medical assistant.
What you’d make: $57,426 per year
Find sleep technician jobs on Monster.
Tai chi instructor
Why: Tai chi is a martial art discipline that often looks like a slowed-down combination of karate and ballet. The movements are very deliberate; they focus on improving strength and balance. Tai chi is also meditative: Students are encouraged to listen to the instructor but also find their own rhythm within themselves. For this reason, many classes are held in minimalist studios or in parks or other outdoor settings, with no music.
What you’d need: Any fitness center offering tai chi typically requires all staff to have CPR, AED and first aid training. In addition, prior experience leading fitness or martial arts courses may be needed.
What you’d make: $39,820 per year
Find tai chi instructor jobs on Monster.
Yoga instructor
Why: Yoga instructors always seem pretty chill, probably because they spend most of their workdays stretching and meditating simultaneously. Yoga studios tend to be soothing environments with relaxing music, thoughtful decor and even aromatherapy. Yogis often go off-site—holding classes in nature or in someone’s home—bringing the serenity along with them.
What you’d need: Typically some kind of group exercise or fitness certification from a nationally recognized organization is required. Additional licensing is needed if you’re teaching specific classes or techniques that have been branded, plus CPR, AED and first aid certifications.
What you’d make: $39,820 per year
Find yoga instructor jobs on Monster.
Relax—you've got this
Having a job that doesn't make your blood pressure spike is a smart career move. But maybe the prospect of actually getting the job causes you to bite your nails. Don't freak out! Could you use some help in your quest for a relaxing job? Join Monster for free today. As a member, you can get job alerts sent directly to your inbox so you can apply as soon as jobs are available. Additionally, you can upload up to five versions of your cover letter and resume—each tailored to different types of not-stressful jobs that interest you. Recruiters search Monster every day looking to fill top jobs with qualified candidates, just like you. We know the job search is a grind, and we're here to help you along every step of the way.
