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For some time now, acupressure mats have been breaking popularity records. They are supposed to give effects similar to massage, i.e. to reduce back pain and headaches. Do they actually work like that? What happens to our body when we use them? We decided to take a look at it!
Acupressure is a technique used to release blocked chi (Qi) or energy throughout the body. After removing these blockages, any pains that have been troubling us can be minimized or completely eliminated.
How do acupressure mats work? They consist of several hundred plastic points that are supposed to exert pressure on important places on our back. There are also these types of pillows that can be used on the neck, head, hands or feet. You can buy an acupressure mat HERE.
Further part below the video.
- See also: Acupressure accessories. How to choose the best?
Acupressure mats. Advantages and disadvantages
There is not much research into how acupressure mats work. There are only a few minor experiments that prove that this product actually helps with pain reduction. Perhaps because, as with acupressure or acupuncture, it stimulates pressure points along the meridians (lines connecting acupuncture points) in the body.
There is, however, one major difference. Acupressure mats stimulate many of these points indiscriminately in contrast to targeted acupressure or acupuncture treatments performed by a professional.
Nevertheless, users of these devices report a number of benefits resulting from their use. Here are the most common of them:
- headache reduction,
- reducing neck pain,
- relieving the symptoms of sciatica,
- reducing stress and tension,
- less problems with falling asleep,
- relieving tension in the back muscles.
The acupressure set – mat + pillow – is the perfect solution if you suffer from back pain, neck and neck pain. In Medonet Market you can buy it for PLN 112,99.
How to use an acupressure mat?
Initially, you may feel discomfort or pain when you lie down on the acupressure mat. The reason is the sharp spikes from which it is assembled. This may take several minutes. After this time, the spikes will start to heat your body, which will bring you relief.
For maximum results, use the mat daily for about 10-20 minutes. Remember to breathe while doing so and consciously practice relaxing your body.
Also, follow these tips:
- Choose a suitable surface on which you want to spread the mat. People who are just starting their adventure with this item often spread it out on the couch or bed. Over time, you can put it on the floor.
- Try to sit on the mat. For example, you can put it on a chair so that your buttocks and lower back are in direct contact with it.
- Initially, protect your skin from the mat. You can start laying on it with a thin T-shirt or lining it with a soft cloth. This will make it easier for you to get used to the mat. However, over time, try to put on it without clothes. Thanks to this, you will feel its action better.
- Get down on the mat very slowly. Distribute your weight evenly on it. Thanks to this, you will avoid injuries of individual points.
- Change positions carefully. Do not squirm or move while lying on the mat. This way, you can scratch or even injure the skin.
- Do not give up. Only regular use of the mat brings the expected results. Therefore, if you don’t feel them right away, don’t get discouraged. It will pay off!
Who shouldn’t use an acupressure mat?
There are contraindications to using an acupressure mat. See how and by whom it should not be used:
- by pregnant women (especially for induction of labor),
- by people with delicate, susceptible to injuries and irritation skin,
- by diabetics,
- by people with poor circulation,
- by people who have problems with high or too low blood pressure (this should be agreed with your doctor),
- by infants and young children.
We encourage you to listen to the latest episode of the RESET podcast. This time we devote it to emotions.
Often times, a particular sight, sound or smell brings to mind a similar situation that we have already experienced. What opportunities does this give us? How does our body react to such an emotion? You will hear about this and many other aspects related to emotions below.
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