People are always looking for a new and easier way to lose weight. That is why there is an interest in how acupressure mats work to help move towards weight loss goals.
Acupressure is an ancient healing practice that has been used for centuries to help:
- relieve pain
- promote relaxation
- improve digestion
- promote quality sleep
- increase energy
- reduce cellulite
The theory behind acupressure is that there are points on the body that are connected to energy meridians, and by applying pressure to these points, one can encourage the flow of energy and improve overall health.
In recent years, acupressure mats have become popular as a way to self-administer this therapy at home. While there is no scientific evidence to support the claim that acupressure mats can help with weight loss, there are some theories about how they might work.
One possibility is that the mats help to stimulate circulation and increase blood flow, which in turn could help to reduce cellulite and promote detoxification.
Another possibility is that the mats work by reducing stress and promoting relaxation, both of which are important factors in weight loss, because stress can make you gain weight. When we are stressed, our bodies produce cortisol. This is a survival hormone, that is what tells someone to fight or flee from a dangerous situation. If we are under stress constantly, our bodies keep making cortisol. If we are under stress, we are more at risk for:
- Depression
- Insomnia
- Heart disease
- Weight gain
Traditional Chinese Medicine believes that if we rebalance the body’s energy flow, or chi, by stimulating pressure points associated with stress, we can encourage the body to produce less cortisol, which will help the weight loss process.
Whatever the mechanism may be, there is no doubt that acupressure mats can provide a variety of benefits, including relief from pain, improved circulation, and reduced stress levels.
How to use an acupressure mat for weight loss
The goal is to balance the whole body’s energy and metabolism. This can be achieved by using the acupressure mat in different positions.
- Lay flat on your back
Lay without a shirt on. Ease onto the mat as slowly as you need to, because laying on the mat with a shirt on is much less effective. Needles will ease tension in the back muscles, creating loose muscles.
- Lay flat on your stomach
This will stimulate the digestive organs. You can lay your head on your arms and just relax and know that the pressure points are working their magic!
- Sit on the mat with the back of the legs also on the acupressure mat
This will help stimulate circulation around the buttocks and the backs of your upper legs. Do some stretching while in this position. Bring your body as close to your legs as possible to stretch out your back.
- Standing on the acupressure mat
Your feet are a treasure trove of pressure points that connect to every part of your body. Here at the wellthieone.com, acupressure mats have replaced bath mats or rugs in the bathroom.
Every opportunity you get, stand on the mat with bare feet. If you are short on time, just doing this will help your whole body balance its energy and erase stress.
It may take time for you to feel comfortable enough to stand for longer periods of time on the mat. It doesn’t matter too much how much time you can stand there, just do so with your bare feet. It is not going to hurt you. Stand on it for a few more seconds every day until you can stand on it long enough. A few minutes every morning and evening is great! Standing on it with socks, again, the „point“ of doing so is mostly lost, so try your best to stand on it with your bare feet.
Who Should Not Use an Acupressure Mat for Weight Loss?
Acupressure mats are generally safe for everyone. If you have a heart condition, are pregnant or on blood medication, consult your healthcare provider first for any guidance they may have.
If you have open wounds or a skin infection, wait for healing before using the acupressure mat.
What is a good quality, high value acupressure mat to try?
Most out there are quite good. We recommend getting one with a pillow so you can work the back of your neck muscles too! This one is one of the least expensive ones on Amazon that includes a pillow:
1. ProsourceFit Acupressure Mat and Pillow Set for Back/Neck Pain Relie
Why we love ProSource Fit Acupressure Mat:
- Reduces pain naturally
- Reduces tension, back pain simply by using it for 10-30 minutes
- Includes a pillow, unlike many
- Increases energy and circulation
- 100% cotton fabric
- 6,210 acupressure points on mat, 1782 points on pillow
- You will quickly become accustomed to the spikes and look forward to using it!
- Highly rated on Amazon
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