Shakti Mats – Torture Devices or Health Aids?

I have to admit I was a little sceptical when I was sent a Shakti Mat to try out. For all intents and purposes, it looks a little bit like a torture device.

6,000 sharp spikes protrude from the mat, like a bed of nails which, believe it or not, have been used as a relaxation aid for thousands of years. It is described as being like acupressure but with spikes. I am a great believer in acupressure and acupuncture as it has really helped me in the past.

WHAT DOES IT DO?

It has  many benefits and can be used to relax your body and mind. It is simple. The spikes apply pressure to your muscles and skin and it claims to help with:

• SLEEP
• CIRCULATION
• TENSION IN MUSCLES
• RELIEF FROM HEADACHES
• RELIEF FROM STRESS
• RELAXATION
• IMPROVED VITALITY
• QUICKER RECOVERY AFTER EXERCISE

BACKGROUND

Founded by two New Zealanders committed to creating an effective, ethical product, Shakti Mats are used by athletes and ordinary people around the world to help with recovery and relaxation. Why even the ALL BLACKS use them!! Well, they definitely could do with learning how to relax after a game. I just have a difficulty picturing some of those huge men lying on the mats.

Particularly impressive is the fact that the women who make them in Varanasi in India get a living wage, work relaxed hours, have medical care, paid holiday leave and much more.

I visited Varanasi last year as part of our trip to India and know that this must be a wonderful opportunity for these women.

DOES IT WORK?

As I said, I was sceptical at first, but I now realise that on the evenings I use it, I definitely sleep better and feel more rested when I wake in the mornings.

Plus, I believe it is also helping with my circulation/lymph problems with which I have been plagued recently. It also helps with tension in my shoulders.

HOW TO USE IT

Place your Shakti Mat on the floor or on a bed. Initially, I placed it on the bed, but I have now progressed to the floor. You can place a neck pillow or a rolled-up towel underneath to support your neck. Lie in a comfortable position so that your skin rests in contact with the points. Relax and breathe deeply. I have worn leggings and a top for the purpose of the photos, but I have no problem in lying on it in my underwear. It is very easy to relax and zone out, particularly if you listen to a relaxation tape.

The most difficult part is getting up as you become aware of the spikes once more. After you finish, your skin is red but it soon fades.

There are many ways to use it. I also stand on it in light socks for two minutes; I yet have to progress to bare feet. But I have started to put it under my bare feet when I am sitting down and it is so relaxing.

There is quite a lot more to learn about these wonderful mats which you can find HERE

If you wish to purchase there is a discount available at the moment. Use the code XMASREADY at the checkout.

I am off for a relaxing lie down on my bed of nails. And no I am not a masochist.

 

The Shakti Mat was gifted, but I was under no obligation to write about it and my positive review is based on how I feel it helps me.