from 'ouch' to 'ahhh'
The Shakti Mat has been perfecting its craft for a casual 3,000 years. No joke.
Picture this: ancient yogis in India, just chillin' on a bed of nails. Weird right? But they knew that putting pressure on the body was the fast track to ditching stress and pain. Who would have thought that the answer to our modern woes was so… retro?
Turns out, we humans like it kinda rough. These wise yogis figured out that a little discomfort can lead to some seriously amazing benefits. When we apply pressure to our skin, tension is released. But don't worry, this isn't some wild pain tolerance test - it's just simple science.
You see, laying on spikes stimulates the vagus nerve, which acts as an information superhighway to the brain. It also activates the parasympathetic nervous system which helps control digestion, heart rate, mood and even the body's inflammatory response.
When you cosy up on a Shakti Mat, our signature sharp spikes trigger a flood of endorphins and oxytocin - aka the ‘happiness hormones’. This is your body's natural pain-relief, and wow does it work wonders. No pills, no therapists - just your own amazing body doing its thing.
Right here, we'll walk you through all the ways acupressure can help and give you all you need to know to get comfy with your new buddy - the Shakti Mat. Curious? Let's get stuck in.
from 'ouch' to 'ahhh'
The Shakti Mat has been perfecting its craft for a casual 3,000 years. No joke.
Picture this: ancient yogis in India, just chillin' on a bed of nails. Weird right? But they knew that putting pressure on the body was the fast track to ditching stress and pain. Who would have thought that the answer to our modern woes was so… retro?
Turns out, we humans like it kinda rough. These wise yogis figured out that a little discomfort can lead to some seriously amazing benefits. When we apply pressure to our skin, tension is released. But don't worry, this isn't some wild pain tolerance test - it's just simple science.
You see, laying on spikes stimulates the vagus nerve, which acts as an information superhighway to the brain. It also activates the parasympathetic nervous system which helps control digestion, heart rate, mood and even the body's inflammatory response.
When you cosy up on a Shakti Mat, our signature sharp spikes trigger a flood of endorphins and oxytocin - aka the ‘happiness hormones’. This is your body's natural pain-relief, and wow does it work wonders. No pills, no therapists - just your own amazing body doing its thing.
Right here, we'll walk you through all the ways acupressure can help and give you all you need to know to get comfy with your new buddy - the Shakti Mat. Curious? Let's get stuck in.
Blissful back
Duration: 20 minutes
Everybody’s body is different and your own experience will be unique to you. Most newbies need a while to adjust to the mat. These spikes are sharp! And that's the point. We make them this way for a very good reason. Because without super-sharp spikes, there is no effect.
At first, you might feel the urge to bail. But don't give in! Take some deep breaths, find your Zen and power through those first few minutes. After that, it's smooth sailing. Your muscles will melt, your mind will chill out and you'll drift off into a blissful state of relaxation. For some, this sensation of deep bliss is something completely new.
We strongly recommend making Shakti a daily habit. This helps your body adjust to the acupressure magic and reap all the amazing rewards. Plus, it loosens up your fascia, boosts blood flow and keeps those endorphins pumping on the regular.
Start off with a thin t-shirt and the mat on your bed or sofa. As you level up, you'll be rocking it bare-skinned on the floor like a true Shakti pro. Go at your own speed, but keep pushing yourself - a little discomfort now means big rewards later!
Neck & shoulder nirvana
Duration: 10 minutes
Our acupressure pillow is your new BFF for tackling stiff necks and tight shoulders. It’s perfectly shaped to hit all those tricky, hard-to-reach spots. You can also roll up your Shakti Mat for a targeted treatment. Our spikes, with their unique clip-disk tech, will mould to your body's curves like a glove.
Say goodbye to headaches, migraines and tension - this is the ultimate desk-job detox.
Fantastic feet
Duration: 5 minutes of pure joy
Give yourself a DIY reflexology treatment anytime. Just by standing on your Shakti Mat. It wakes up your nervous system and gives your body an instant energy boost. Sluggish mornings, be gone!
We know, bare feet on spikes can be… a lot. Try it with socks first, heels off the mat - this lets you control the pressure and work your way up to full-on foot bravery. The increased blood flow will put a spring in your step and keep you feeling fresh all day long.
Leg Day, every day
Duration: 20 minutes
Runners! Cyclists! Pole dancers! Calling all sports-people far and wide - this one’s for you. Tired legs and tight muscles are no match for the Shakti Mat. Lay your calves on the mat or wrap it around your thighs for a relaxing massage that'll make your legs feel brand new. The extra blood flow helps flush out lactic acid and speeds up recovery, so you can get back to doing what you love - harder, better, faster, stronger!
Heavenly hands & arms
Duration: 15 minutes
Acupressure isn't picky - it'll work its magic on any part of your body. Wherever you place the spikes, relaxation follows. After a long day of tapping and typing, writing and swiping, your arms might feel heavy and numb. Treat them to some serious Shakti TLC and watch as they come back to life.
core and chest reset
Duration: 20 minutes
Lying face-down on the Shakti Mat is not for the faint of heart - but the benefits are worth it! This intense method can work wonders for digestive issues and bloating. Some customers report relief from PMS and ADHD symptoms. We know this position takes a bit of guts (pun intended), as the tummy area tends to be extra sensitive. But hey, no guts, no glory, right?
So there you have it, folks! A whirlwind tour of the incredible world of acupressure. Whether you’re a yogi, an athlete or just looking for a little self-care, the Shakti Mat has got your back (literally)
Get ready to embrace the ‘ouch’, find your bliss and let the spikes work their magic. Trust us, your body won't wanna let go. Happy Shakti-ing.