STACK #240 October 2024

TECH FEATURE

visit jbhifi.com.au/stack

What is Shiatsu massage?

What to look for

Shiatsu is a form of Japanese bodywork that evolved from a massage technique

developed over 700 years ago. The Japanese word means ‘finger pressure’ – the masseur applies direct pressure to the skin using thumbs, fingers and palms (elbows, knuckles and feet can also be used as massage tools), manipulating areas to reduce tension and improve blood flow. The technique targets the body’s ‘meridians’, or energy channels.

Massage guns come in a variety of shapes and sizes to suit all needs and body parts. Mini massagers can be easier to manoeuvre than full sized models. Determine the parts of your body that regularly require relief. Do you need a device that targets specific pain points with deeper massage, or a more basic model? Consider the level of massage intensity you’re comfortable with – most massagers have adjustable speed and intensity levels, as well as different modes. Some massagers can include a heated attachment with variable temperature levels to increase blood flow to sore muscles for faster recovery.

A handheld massager should be comfortable to hold and easy to use. Look for a good grip and ergonomic design to avoid grief rather than relief. Don’t let your massage get cut short by a flat battery. Look for a device that has decent battery life and will stay the distance. Massagers with interchangeable attachments provide easy customisation for targeting specific body areas.

TheraCup Advanced 3-in-1 Cupping Therapy

Knead more massage options? Massage guns are effective for hitting sore and tense muscles with short controlled bursts of pressure, but what if you prefer a more protracted and soothing back and neck massage, or want to ease your aching feet?

A cup of relief Favoured by elite athletes, cupping therapy is a form of deep tissue massage that uses suction to relieve sore muscles and enhance blood flow. It works by placing small heated cups on the skin; suction then pulls the skin upwards and ultimately draws blood towards, or away from, a specific area of the body (back, shoulders, legs and arms) to relieve pain. Generally administered by a professional, you can now use it easily at home with TheraCup Advanced 3-in-1 Cupping Therapy.

The good news is there’s a diverse range of massage devices for all of the above, from cushions, pillows, and seat covers, to balls, vibration rollers, and dedicated foot and neck massagers.

DYK?

Cupping originated in China and West Asia thousands of years ago and has since gained popularity across the world. Interest soared during the 2016 Rio Olympics, when US swimmer Michael Phelps was photographed with cupping's distinctive circular marks across his shoulders. He went on to win five gold medals across his pool events.

Comprising three interchangeable transparent cups, its triple functionality includes three levels of suction, heat and vibration therapies, with a battery life up to 120

Renpho Vibrating Foam Roller 3-in-1 unique

Therabody Wave Solo

Renpho Shiatsu Neck & Shoulder Massager

Smart vibration therapy device Ergonomic design 3x vibration settings 2-hour battery life Bluetooth sync to Therabody app

massage patterns 5x speed settings 2x deep tissue modes 2-hour battery life Constant rhythm or variable vibration

Ergonomic design Versatile for arms, legs and back 8x deep-kneading nodes Adjustable intensity Heating function

minutes. Safety is paramount, of course, with built-in safeguards

like auto shut-off, pressure detection, and high-intensity suction warning.

20 OCTOBER 2024

jbhifi.com.au