Do you know the 5 benefits of an acupressure mat?
At first glance, an acupressure mat doesn't look very inviting. However, those who dare to try it are usually quickly convinced by its numerous benefits. Lying on the mat can reduce tensions and stress and can also help you achieve better sleep.
What is Acupressure?
The body has sensitive spots known as acupressure points. Gentle pressure is applied to these spots during acupressure. This technique comes from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), just like acupuncture. The goal of acupressure is to stimulate the body's delicate energy pathways and release blockages in the energy flow.
The underlying assumption here is that unresolved blockages lead to pain, tension, and sleep problems. Acupressure can help alleviate these issues by stimulating the acupressure points to promote circulation. This, in turn, supports the organs' supply of nutrients and oxygen and thus the uninterrupted flow of bodily processes.
It makes sense to perform the acupressure treatment regularly to permanently resolve the blockages. If you want to use an acupressure mat, even daily application is highly recommended.
Daily Use of the Acupressure Mat: Effects and Benefits
If you use your acupressure mat regularly, you can improve your overall well-being in the long term. The many small spikes press into different acupressure points on your skin. This may initially cause some slight pain, but don't worry, it subsides after a short period of adaptation. Afterward, your skin feels very warm.
As soon as you lie on the acupressure mat, your body weight is distributed evenly across the entire mat. This ensures that many acupressure points are stimulated at the same time and that circulation is maximally encouraged. A feeling of relaxation occurs after just a short time. Moreover, the effect of the acupressure mat brings many additional benefits.
Relieving Tension with the Acupressure Mat
Particularly in the neck and shoulder area, extending to the jaw, many people experience persistent tension. Reasons for this can include stress, incorrect posture while working, and lack of movement.
By promoting blood circulation, the acupressure mat can help relieve these tensions. Did you know there's also a specific acupressure pillow for the neck? In addition to your acupressure mat, it's an absolute must-have against tension!
Back Pain Can Be Alleviated
For back pain, massages, physiotherapeutic treatments, and chiropractic measures can be particularly helpful. We also recommend a regular yoga practice to strengthen your back, keep you moving, and prevent tensions as well as pains.
This practice can be wonderfully supplemented by regular use of your acupressure mat. A special advantage is that you can use it anytime you like, independent of class times, massage appointments, and extra costs. Your back will thank you!
Acupressure Helps Against Stress
Regularly lying on the acupressure mat not only reduces physical but also mental stress. The lying position, combined with the gentle pressure on your acupressure points, allows you to switch off after just a few minutes, helping you momentarily forget the daily grind.
Naturally, you can combine the use of the acupressure mat with anything else that relaxes you mentally - such as music and sounds, scented candles, or incense. Stress-related headaches and migraines can also be alleviated by lying on the acupressure mat.
Acupressure Eases Sleep Disorders
Regularly lying on the acupressure mat can also improve your sleep over the long term. The meditative state you can achieve by lying on the mat can reduce mental burdens that may lead to sleep disorders.
If stress significantly affects you and disrupts your sleep, it can generally be helpful to incorporate a few health-promoting routines into your daily life. For example, meditation, Yin Yoga, or even an Ayurvedic spring detox can help. However, if you continue to suffer from persistent sleep problems, we recommend seeking medical advice.
More Energy Through Regular Use
After relaxing on the acupressure mat, you'll be amazed to find that you have more energy. On the one hand, this is because regular use allows you to sleep more restfully and effectively. On the other hand, tensions are released, and the muscles and spine receive better blood circulation.
The improved circulation feels pleasantly warm and gives you energy for the day. The cleared blockages allow your energy pathways to work correctly again, which you will notice both mentally and physically.
Daily Use of the Acupressure Mat: How It Works
To use the acupressure mat, simply lie down on it on your back. About 20 minutes is recommended, but you can also spend several hours on the mat. We suggest a quiet and warm room so you can deeply relax.
In general, the acupressure mat is designed so that you can lie on it with your back bare. However, it's advisable to wear a thin top or t-shirt initially so your body can get used to the stimulation of the acupressure points. Alternatively, you can place a sheet over the spikes. You'll notice that with each application, you cope better with the initial discomfort and eventually can do without the fabric between your skin and the spikes.
Extra Tip: If you are particularly sensitive to the spikes, you can reduce the intensity by placing the acupressure mat on your bed or sofa. Although this means the effect of the mat is somewhat diminished, it is a good alternative to the hard floor for getting used to it, especially on sensitive areas.
During the application, all you need to do is simply lie on the mat and consciously give yourself over to relaxation. Initially, the spikes cause a slightly painful, tingling sensation. However, after a few minutes, a pleasant warmth spreads, which lasts for the rest of your time on the mat.
It's best to start with a duration of 10 to 20 minutes and gradually increase if you feel like it. You can also listen to relaxing music or an audiobook during this time. It's important to get up slowly from the acupressure mat afterward and carefully straighten up. Your back might feel a bit tight in the first few seconds. Due to increased blood circulation, the skin is also highly reddened. However, this is completely normal and will soon subside.
When you use the acupressure mat is entirely up to you. If there's no time in the morning, take a few minutes for yourself after work to relax on the mat. This can help you switch off from the day and transition into a healthy evening routine. With regular (ideally daily) use, you will notice that your back feels overall more relaxed, you have more energy, and you might even be pain-free.
Additional Uses for Your Acupressure Mat
You can also use the acupressure mat for your feet. The bravest may stand on the spikes barefoot. However, we recommend wearing socks at first and gradually getting accustomed to the sensation. There are also specially made acupressure mats for foot reflex zones, designed specifically for this sensitive area. These can be used independently of lying down with the whole body, for example, while brushing your teeth or under the desk at the office.
The acupressure mat can also be applied to the thighs, calves, and abdomen. If you like, you can integrate the mat into your bedtime routine and lie on it in bed. This can help you fall asleep faster and more relaxed.
By the way: You can also benefit from the effects of the acupressure mat in the car or office chair! It can easily be used here too by simply leaning against the spikes.
Conclusion: Why You Should Regularly Use Your Acupressure Mat
The many health benefits of an acupressure mat speak for themselves. Regular use is important - ideally daily, at the very least weekly. How long you lie on the acupressure mat is up to you. In any case, you will benefit from improved circulation, restful sleep, and relieved tension in the long term.
However, it's important to note: If you suffer from chronic pain, sleep disturbances, or other stress symptoms, the acupressure mat does not replace medical treatment. Nonetheless, it is a wonderful supplement for sustainably improving your physical and mental well-being.
The author
Katha is passionate about writing texts. In her free time, she enjoys anything that keeps her physically fit - especially yoga, workouts, jogging and bouldering. She also works as a yoga teacher and is committed to animal welfare.
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