Acupressure mats: benefits and how they work

Acupressure mats are more than just a fad among people who take care of their body and health. It is already possible to find a dozen brands of acupressure mats sold online and in health stores. They usually consist of a light foam rubber mat, covered by a cotton cover with small hard plastic discs. provided with concentric circles with spikes. They also usually incorporate a pillow with the same circles and spikes.

The spiked circles can take the shape of a lotus flower, which is why they are also called “lotus flower mats”.

When choosing, keep in mind that the greater the number of spikes –in some models they can be more than 8,000– the better the distribution of the weight of the body on them and the less incisive they are. However, each person has their own experience of the mat. The initial discomfort of the spikes can give way to a more or less intense feeling of relaxation and well-being, especially when getting up.

What are the benefits of acupressure mats?

The benefits of the acupressure mat are related to the theory of Chinese traditional medicine, according to which it is traversed by meridians through which vital energy circulates. Along these meridians are located the points where the needles are inserted in acupuncture or where pressure is exerted in techniques such as shiatsu or tui na.

The mats stimulate these points with the aim of energy flows through the channels or meridians. They obviously do it “in bulk”, without the selection and precision that a therapist applies. In addition, the pressure of the tips on the skin increases blood flow and releases endorphins in the body.

Many users comment that it has relieved them sleep problems or migraines, but the benefits can be very general: it can relieve tension and contractures and any mild and incipient symptoms. Of course, in the event of any symptom of unknown cause, you should consult your doctor so that he can make a proper diagnosis. The mat will only be a complementary aid.

How to start using the mat

You have to lie down carefully on the mat, leaving the neck and head outside the mat. In the first few minutes you may feel uncomfortable. Then the discomfort passes. If you find it too annoying, they can put you in a T-shirt or cover the mat with a cotton sheet. When you have gotten used to the sensation, it will not cost you anything to lie directly on the mat without protection.

Take a deep breath and rest. You can take the opportunity to meditate, listen to relaxing music or visualize. The immediate effect is different in each person: some fall asleep and others feel that they receive an extra dose of energy.

It is normal to start with five minutes in the morning and then five at night, but the sessions can first be extended up to half an hour and, at most, an hour and a half.

You can use the mat in different positions to achieve different effects:

Lying on your back If possible, place a pillow or cushion under your neck. This position can relieve back pain. You can bend your knees to make the position more comfortable.Lying face down. This posture stimulates the metabolism and loosens the tension that supports the diaphragm.The cheek on the pillow. It can relieve the tension that often occurs in the neck and jawAs a seat. You can also put the mat on a chair. This way of using it is useful for relieving lower back pain.