Shiatsu Massage Mat Articles

Shiatsu Massage Mat

If you're new to yoga, meditation or shiatsu massage, you've probably been both enticed and intimidated by the wide array of products that are available. While shopping for and purchasing yoga and meditation aids can be fun and motivating, it isn't necessary to have a lot of "stuff" in order to practice. In fact, it can be a little counterproductive, especially if you're trying to simplify your life and your space. The beauty of shiatsu massage mats is that they're so versatile and useful that they'll soon become an "essential", without costing a lot of money or taking up extra space.

Shiatsu massage mats were created with the purpose of being used as cushioning during shiatsu massage. If you're unfamiliar with shiatsu massage, it's the practice of applying pressure via the fingertips to specific areas of the body. It's very similar to the art of acupuncture and works along the same principles. Many shiatsu massage mats are constructed with a wide enough surface to accommodate both the student and the practitioner, allowing both to be more comfortable during the massage.The Versatility of a shiatsu massage mat

Although created for use during massage, shiatsu massage mats are wonderfully versatile and something of an all-purpose mat. They have thicker filling than a standard yoga mat, so are often preferred by yoga students who feel they need a bit more padding beneath them. They're especially comfortable for use outdoors or on harder surfaces. These mats are also wonderful for use during meditation, particularly during meditation sessions in a lying-down position.Easy Care and Storage are a Bonus

Although nicely padded and soft, shiatsu massage mats are very easily stored and carried. All will roll up to quite a small size and most come with ties to secure them in a tightly rolled position. This makes them quite easy to tuck under your arm, into a suitcase or tote or even attach to a backpack. This is great if you'll be taking them to a class, on a vacation or business trip or on a hiking or camping adventure. The fact that they roll and tie easily also makes them very easy to store. They're quite simple to place in a pretty basket or under a bench in your meditation or yoga space, or you can tuck the under a couch, bed or into a drawer.

Many of the better models of shiatsu massage mats have removable covers, which makes them just as simple to care for as they are to store. You can quickly remove the cover to wash and dry it, keeping it fresh and clean and ready to use. The batting, or inside, of the mat can also be washed, much as you would wash a pillow or duvet. With proper care, your shiatsu massage mat will last for years.While many of the aids and accessories available for yoga and meditation are "frills" that you can easily do without, a shiatsu massage mat should be considered a basic and wonderful necessity.