When it comes to life’s little luxuries, few things are quite as extravagant as treating yourself to a massage chair – something that will allow you to indulge in a much-needed massage from home whenever you need it. With today’s fast-paced, busy lifestyle, we could all do with a little extra R and R from time to time – after all, sitting in office chairs and hunching over a computer all day long is no good for anyone, and the stresses of modern life can’t help but take their toll eventually.
If we know one thing, it’s that it’s simply impossible to pour from an empty cup, and from soothing aching muscles to aiding relaxation, there are many reasons a massage chair might just be the best purchase you ever make.
Unsure where to start? Here’s all you need to know to find your perfect match.
Modern massage chairs
Masseuse Massage Chairs work to massage the key sources of muscular pain, from the head and neck, right down to the feet. Massage chairs have been refined and improved over the years, and today, they resemble a fairly bulky recliner or lounge chair. Compared to the first patented model back in the 1950s, the modern iteration has come a long way, and features high-tech features designed to provide specialised massage techniques for the neck, back and legs, as well as heat to help soothe those aches and pains. Add to that the different vibration levels to suit a range of different needs and tastes, and you have yourself a versatile self care tool that once you’ve tried, you won’t want to be without.
Who are they designed for?
Massage chairs are popular amongst athletes and individuals with chronic back or leg discomfort, but are deemed equally as essential by those who simply enjoy the relaxation, stress reduction, and improved circulation they offer, too. Able to help with pain management for conditions such as arthritis, as well as relieving general soreness and easing weary muscles for people of all ages, it’s hard to find a person who wouldn’t benefit from having a luxurious massage chair at home – and those with limited mobility, in particular, can benefit from therapeutic massages without having to leave their living room.
Should I invest in one?
Massage chairs generally come with a hefty price tag, but be prepared to splurge on the very finest one money can buy and you’re certain to thank yourself for it later. It’s an investment, and a gift to yourself that will keep on giving for many years to come, as well as providing relief and relaxation for family members – but how exactly do you know if you’re choosing the right chair for you?
Taking into consideration the reason you’re looking for a massage chair in the first place is important, as if you have a particular health condition or area of tenderness or pain, you’ll want to ensure your chosen chair is capable of addressing it.
With so many options to pick from, think about how often you envisage using your chair and whether you have room for a larger unit. If you do, and you want to indulge yourself, then it would be a fantastic gift for your body and mind, but if you’re dealing with limited space then you may like to consider a foldable unit strapped to an office chair as a handy compromise.
The chance to relax in a nice massage chair at the end of a long day is a luxury. Sink in, let the chair work its magic, and you’ll be transformed instantly.
Health benefits of massage chairs
Very few people want to spend money on going to the chiropractor multiple times a week, even those who can easily afford it – after all, there are so many more exciting things you could be treating yourself to instead.
A massage chair is a one-time purchase that will last you for years to come, which means you won’t have to rely on outside help to manage your aches and pains, and you can easily fit a massage into your schedule whenever you feel like it. You can easily turn it on at the end of the day while your favourite series plays on TV and relax with a cup of tea or a glass of wine whilst enjoying maximum peace and privacy – but beyond convenience, there have also been numerous studies that demonstrate the benefits of getting a massage from a massage chair.
In addition to the obvious benefits to tired and aching muscles, they’ve also been shown to help reduce stress by around 50 per cent after just one 10-minute session, as well as improving alertness and enhancing cognitive abilities – so if you’re feeling tired or sluggish while working from home, simply take a break and sink into your chair, and you’ll be good to go again in the time it takes to drink a coffee. Add to that the fact that, in some cases, massage chairs have also appeared to help lower blood pressure and generally promote a sense of wellbeing and there are many reasons to consider installing one in your home.
The bottom line
Human contact is one feature of a massage therapist that a chair can never replace – but for those with sore muscles and busy lifestyles, they can make for an easy and convenient solution that is ready whenever you are. At the very least, a massage chair can help to get you through those long days between visits to the spa and help you manage stress when you need it the most – so why not treat yourself?
