Acupressure Mat

A mat and neck pillow covered in hundreds of small plastic "flowers", each with blunt points. You lie, sit or stand on them, and the points press into your skin across a wide area. It's a simple way to wind down after a workout or before bed. Comes with a carry bag.

What is acupressure?

Acupressure is an old practice from traditional Chinese medicine: pressing on spots of the body to ease tension. A mat like this is a do-it-yourself version. Instead of someone pressing with their thumbs, your own body weight presses you onto the points.

What does it feel like?

Prickly and a little uncomfortable for the first minute or two, a bit like lying on a bed of tiny Lego tips (it won't break the skin). Then it usually turns into a warm, tingly feeling, and many people find it relaxing. Similar ideas: a spiky massage ball, a deep-tissue massage, or a bed of nails, but much gentler.

How to use it

• Lie on your back with the pillow under your neck for 10–20 minutes. Lower yourself slowly.
• Start with a thin shirt on, then try bare skin once you're used to it.
• Stand on it barefoot for a foot massage, or sit on it or lean it against a chair.
• Use the pillow under your neck, lower back or feet.

Size & materials

• Mat: about 31.5" × 17" (80 × 43 cm)
• Pillow: about 14" × 5.5" × 4" (36 × 14 × 10 cm)
• Weight: about 1.7 lb (770 g) for the mat and pillow
• Linen and cotton cover, foam filling, plastic (PP) points

Skip it on broken or sensitive skin, and ask your doctor first if you're pregnant or have a health condition.