Although they look uninviting at first glance, their regular use is very pleasant, and importantly, they are effective in reducing muscle pain and tension. If you don't already have acupressure matsRead what you can gain by purchasing and systematically using this product.
What is acupressure?
Acupressure is a method of healing through touch that originated in ancient China, ranging in intensity from stroking to pressure. Unlike acupuncture, the skin is not broken during the treatment. The healing effect is achieved by steady or rhythmic pressure on corresponding points on the body, which is supposed to cause the release and flow of energy and consequently activate the body's self-healing processes.
Whether you're a fan of such healing methods or not, it's undeniable that touch and pressure works. After all, we've probably all experienced it on ourselves during a massage. Pressure stimulates nerve endings located in the skin, which leads to the release of a neurotransmitter known as the happy hormone, serotonin. In addition, the blood supply to the body part being treated is increased, and the accelerated blood flow oxygenates the internal organs and helps get rid of harmful substances faster.
You can experience the benefits of acupressure on a daily basis by purchasing acupressure mat.
What are the types of acupressure mats?
Acupressure mat consists of a base and needles. The base of the mat can be made of rubber, foam or a fabric cover filled with a thin layer of sponge or a coconut fiber insert. The needles can be metal and evenly spaced across the surface. However, more common are plastic needles, arranged in rosettes, attached to the fabric pillowcase. Regardless of the type, these needles do not pierce the skin. Therefore, you can use them regularly without any worries.
The mats are usually the torso length of a person of average height, but longer mats are also available for sale. In addition, to complete the set, you can order pillows or half-shafts, also covered with spikes. Models on a rubber or foam base can be assembled into any shape, as they are usually sold as rectangles or squares.
How to use an acupressure mat?
Using the mat is not complicated. Just spread it out on the floor or bed and lie down on it, preferably with your naked body. People with high sensitivity to touch can, of course, remain in their clothes. Initial sessions should not exceed 15 minutes. As the body gets used to such stimuli, they can be extended. Regularity is important, so it is advisable to set a fixed time of day for the acupressure session. Since during the session serotonin is secreted, which makes it easier to fall asleep, it is worth to lie down on the mat during sleep or rest - a nap in the middle of the day.
You can also walk on the mat with bare feet. This is an additional reflexology treatment. If you have additional accessories such as a pillow or a neck support, you can use them separately or together with the mat.
If you have to drive a car or sit for long periods of time, for example while working on a computer, you can spread the mat on the seat and backrest of the chair. This way you will reduce the negative effects of such a position on your spine.
What are the benefits of regular use of an acupressure mat?
Daily use of an acupressure mat has numerous health and wellness benefits. These include:
- Reduce muscle tension, leading to a reduction in back pain in people with a sedentary lifestyle;
- Eliminate migraine headaches, neck pain, shoulder pain or even sciatica pain;
- facilitated falling asleep and improved sleep quality due to the release of the hormone serotonin;
- Relaxation and natural warming up of the body;
- Vasodilation of blood vessels and lowering of blood pressure;
- local improvement of blood supply to the skin, which speeds up metabolism and, consequently, may contribute to smoothing out cellulite;
What should I consider when choosing an acupressure mat?
If you haven't used an acupressure mat before, it's worth starting with a basic one with plastic needles. Sensations are less intensive than in case of mats with metal needles, additionally it is a hypoallergenic product. People who are allergic to nickel should not use mats with metal needles. Those who prefer ecology may choose products made of natural resources - linen, cotton, coconut and recyclable plastic. In physiotherapy offices, it is advisable to use mats with rubber backing, which is easy to clean and disinfect.
It is also worth remembering about contraindications. Using a mat is not recommended for people with external skin damage, pregnant women or people suffering from cancer. In case of breastfeeding women, the use of mats should be consulted with a doctor. Other people should enjoy the benefits of acupressure and enjoy life without pain.
