Do Shakti Mats Work: A Review
(This product was sent to me for free in return for an honest review. My post also contains affiliate links, which means that I may receive a commission at no additional cost to you)
Here’s everything you need to know about the acupressure wellness trend.
Don’t Have Time to Read This Post?
I love my Shakti Mat - you can buy your own and receive 10% off your entire order by clicking this link
You can also use my code Julia10 at the checkout on the Shakti website!
Do Shakti Mats Work: A Review
If you’re interested in learning more about the ancient practice of acupressure, then this blog post is for you.
Learn how the Shakti Mat can impact on your wellbeing, with possible benefits including reduced pain, increased relaxation and better sleep. I also give my honest review of the Shakti Mat, including my experience of using it for the first time.
What Is A Shakti Mat?
Inspired by an ancient tradition which dates back thousands of years, the Shakti Mat uses tiny spikes to stimulate the body’s nervous system.
On their website, the company founders explain that they based their product on the Indian bed of nails, after being introduced to the concept during a holiday in Thailand. This practice that is known today as acupressure, and the Shakti Mat allows more than two million around the world to reap the benefits safely at home.
Shakti Mats come in a range of colours - I chose this green one.
Aware that they’re borrowing a technique from another culture, Shakti pays homage to its Indian roots by reinvesting at least 10% of their profits into wellbeing initiatives in the country. Their products are also handmade by craftspeople in India, in safe workplaces that prioritise wellbeing.
I find that I can relax much better knowing that Shakti are not exploiting another community for the wellbeing of others.
Today Shakti Mat sell a range of acupressure products including pillows, foot pads, headbands, rings and more!
What Does A Shakti Mat Do?
The concept is simple - the Shakti Mat has thousands of tiny plastic spikes that press against the skin. They don’t cause any damage or pierce the skin at all, but they do activate acupoints which have a range of health benefits.
The idea is that you lay down and let the mat do the work for you, without needing to book an appointment with a professional.
How Do Shakti Mats Work?
The Shakti Mat has 8,000 tiny spikes that are designed to stimulate acupoints throughout the body, which is known to have a number of benefits. This includes:
Increasing blood flow
Encouraging the body to release endorphins
Decreasing muscle tension
What Are The Benefits Of A Shakti Mat?
There are lots of benefits to enjoy from using a Shakti Mat. This includes:
Reduced muscle tension in the back and shoulders
Temporary relief from neck or back discomfort
Improved relaxation and stress reduction
Better sleep when used before bedtime
Increased circulation in the areas that contact the mat
Are Shakti Mats Worth It?
Great question! The Shakti Mat initially appealed to me as I love getting massages, but can rarely afford to have them. For that reason, I liked the idea of owning a product that I could use to ease the back pain that I get from my desk job, while also helping me to feel relaxed.
The Shakti team kindly sent me one of their level 1 mats, which has a lower intensity that is suitable for beginners. It still has around 8,000 individual spikes and really does pack a punch for anyone who is new to acupressure.
As I’d never tried anything like this before, I first used my Shakti Mat while wearing a t-shirt to take the edge off the spikes. My first experience was excellent - the prickly feeling quickly dissipated and I felt relaxed and sleepy. I ended up spending 30 minutes lying on the mat while listening to a podcast, and my back felt very comfortable and loose afterwards.
After this first experience, I experimented with different ways of using the mat, including using different surfaces and laying on it without a t-shirt. Letting the spikes press against my bare skin is too much for me at the moment, but I’m hoping to work up to it over time.
I’m excited to continue using the Shakti Mat as a regular part of my wellbeing routine.
How To Use A Shakti Mat
Using a Shakti Mat is easy, all you need to do is follow these steps:
1) Place the mat on a flat surface such as a bed, yoga mat, or carpet
It’s worth experimenting at first, as firmer surfaces like carpet or other flooring will apply more pressure to your back and neck, whereas your bed will do the opposite and encourage the mat to mould around your body.
I personally prefer lying on my mat when it’s on the floor.
Lie down slowly so the spikes press evenly against the back
If it’s your first time using the mat, then consider introducing a piece of fabric such as a towel or piece of clothing to make the spikes feel less intense.
Relax and breathe deeply for several minutes
Although the mat might feel uncomfortable at first, for many people this quickly disserpates into a feeling of warmth and can feel very relaxing.
As you lay there, you’ll feel the spikes activating your acupressure points and for me, this feels similar to having a deep tissue massage.
Gradually increase usage time as comfort improves
As your body gets used to the feeling, you’ll likely be able to spend more time layng on the mat. At some point, you may want to increase the intensity by moving the mat from the bed to the floor, or by laying on it without a fabric barrier.
Please note that the Shakti Mat might not be suitable for you if you are pregnant, or have a serious illness or injury. If you’re feeling unsure, make sure you speak to a medical professional before using.
Use this link for 10% off your entire order on the Shakti website, or use the code JULIA10 at checkout!
Read More About Acupressure
7 Benefits of Using an Acupressure Mat
Shakti Wonderball Review (to come)
More Product Reviews
Nordace Siena Pro Tote Bag Review
Comfrt Travel Hoodie Review (to come)