
Many people are familiar with this: neck and back pain, which can cause restricted mobility, headaches, migraines, dizziness, and nausea. Often, there's not enough time to seek professional help from an experienced therapist. Shiatsu massage pillows are not just the latest trend in this regard, but a welcome way to easily relieve neck and back tension. This article shows whether the pillow lives up to its promise.
Everyone is familiar with neck and back pain, especially those who spend the whole day in front of a computer screen. Cramped muscle groups are often responsible for other complaints, which often include
- Headaches and migraines
- nausea
- Visual disturbances
- dizziness
- Restricted movement
Shiatsu – effective & soothing
Shiatsu is a form of massage that originated in Asia. This soothing massage is typically performed using the thumbs, fingers, and palms of the hands, although elbows and knees are also used. A Shiatsu treatment combines manual and energetic techniques to bring body and mind into harmony.
While the Shiatsu massage cushion won't replace a comprehensive and in-depth Shiatsu treatment, the rotating spheres can relieve the pain of tense muscles. Many users of the Shiatsu massage cushion are enthusiastic about the product's ability to mimic the targeted massage of a Shiatsu treatment. After a strenuous day at work, you can relax comfortably on your sofa and enjoy the soothing effects of the Shiatsu massage cushion.
A massage pillow against pain & stress
The Shiatsu massage cushion mimics the kneading and circling movements of fingers and thumbs. Four rotating massage heads, arranged in pairs, apply targeted pressure to the muscles. The Shiatsu massage cushion is covered with a fluffy pillowcase that can be washed in the washing machine if necessary. Due to its size, the massage cushion can be used not only for the neck and back, but also for the legs to loosen muscles after a jog. A switchable light and heat function provides additional relaxation. But can the Shiatsu massage cushion really replace the expert hands of an experienced therapist?
Therapist versus pillow – what the Shiatsu massage pillow can really do
Once the massage cushion is in place, massage balls knead the muscles with circular movements. Two massage levels provide a more intense and less intense massage, which is usually performed on the sofa at home. Both the massage and the switchable light and heat function ensure optimal blood flow to tense muscles and create a pleasant warmth. The heat gradually relaxes the muscles, alleviating or even eliminating painful discomfort that can arise from tense muscles.
However, there are some points of criticism that many users aren't convinced by. The first negative point is the noise level of the motor, which makes it difficult for users seeking relaxation to unwind. Another drawback is the fact that the massage cushion occasionally moves. This is due to the rotating massage balls, which rotate either left or right. However, if the cushion is secured with an armrest or a pillow, nothing stands in the way of a relaxing massage.
While the Shiatsu massage cushion provides relaxation and loosens muscles, it can hardly replace the hands of an experienced therapist. Using fingers and thumbs, a Shiatsu therapist can more effectively palpate and specifically treat muscle tension. A Shiatsu massage is comparable to acupressure, which influences the body's energy pathways. In this way,
- Blockades
- Muscle pain
- Joint problems
- Respiratory diseases
- Indigestion
- Sleep disorders
Conclusion
While the Shiatsu massage pillow has some criticisms, its pain-relieving and relaxing effects are still impressive. If you want to relax on the sofa and loosen tense muscles, the massage pillow is a good choice, but it's unlikely to replace the hands of an experienced Shiatsu therapist.
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