Acupressure Mat Benefits are plentiful!
Have you ever looked at an acupressure mat and thought, There is absolutely no way I am lying down on that thing?
They do look a little bit intimidating, with all those tiny plastic spikes, and the first time you see one you might wonder why anyone would willingly lie on it.
But acupressure mats have become increasingly popular as a simple way to build a little more relaxation into everyday life. You simply lie, sit or stand on the mat for a short period of time and let your body get used to the sensation.
Whilst an acupressure mat like the Kiicity’s Acupressure Massage Mat featured here, isn’t a miracle cure and shouldn’t replace medical treatment, many people use them as part of their self-care routine.
Here are 10 potential acupressure mat benefits that show their many benefits for wellbeing.
10 Acupressure Mat Benefits
1. They can help you relax
One of the biggest reasons people use an acupressure mat is to relax their body The sensation can feel quite intense at first, but once your body gets used to it, lying on the mat can become relaxing. Taking 10 or 15 minutes to lie down without your phone, emails or endless jobs to is also, of course, beneficial in itself. Sometimes we simply need permission to stop.
2. They may help ease everyday muscle tension
If your shoulders feel scrunched up or tight and your back feels strained then you probably have tension. Tension is the inevitable response to our stressful, busy lives. An acupressure mat may help encourage relaxation in areas where you tend to hold tension, such as the shoulders, back and neck. I particularly like the idea of using it at the end of a busy day to help me relax into the evening.
3. They can be a lovely addition to a bedtime routine
Some people use acupressure mats before going to bed because they find it calming. You could spend 10–20 minutes lying on the mat while listening to quiet music or simply lying in silence.A signal to your brain that the busy part of the day is over. I think we could all benefit from having more little rituals like that.
4. They may support better sleep
There is some research into acupressure and sleep, although the evidence isn’t strong enough to say that an acupressure mat will improve sleep. However, if using one helps you relax before bedtime, it could indirectly make it easier to settle down. It is certainly a better bedtime habit than scrolling through your phone until midnight. Which to be honest most of us currently do!
5. They can encourage you to take a proper break
This might sound like a small benefit, but I think it is actually one of the nicest things about an acupressure mat. You can’t really lie on one while rushing around doing the washing, answering emails and tidying the kitchen. Having something that encourages you to stop for ten minutes can turn a tiny self-care habit into a genuinely useful pause in your day.
6. They may help with feelings of stress
Acupressure is often used as a relaxation technique, and some people find the physical sensation helps them switch off from the mental noise of the day.
It isn’t a treatment for anxiety or stress-related conditions, but it may be one small tool that helps you create moments of calm. I am all for simple wellbeing habits that don’t require a huge amount of time, money or organisation.
7. They can be used for a little self-massage
The raised points on an acupressure mat stimulate the skin and can create a massage-like sensation. You can use the mat while lying down, sitting against it or even placing your feet on it.This can be really pleasant after a long day spent sitting at a desk or standing on your feet.
8. They may help you feel more aware of your body
We spend so much time inside our heads that it can be easy to forget what is actually happening in our bodies. The sensation of an acupressure mat gives you something physical to focus on. You’ll notice your breathing. any tension and when your body starts to relax. Being mindful and fully present in your body the moment can give your busy brain a break.
9. They are incredibly easy to use
.You don’t need to book an appointment, travel anywhere or set aside an entire afternoon to use your mat. You can simply put it on your bed, sofa or floor and spend a few minutes on it. It is a simple and storable solution.
10. Self Care rituals are all about you!
There is something lovely about having a small ritual that belongs entirely to you. Sometimes self-care is simply deciding that for the next 15 minutes, you don’t have to be productive.
And that is something I think many of us need reminding of.
