FAQ's

Is it painful to use The Shakti Mat?

Acupressure can be a powerful treatment. During the first few minutes it's common to feel a pricking sensation on the areas being affected. This is just built up tension being released. The more discomfort you feel, the more tension that is being unwound. Regular users of the Shakti Mat get little to no pain at all because tension is much lower in the areas the mat is applied to. Think of the first and tenth massage you get on a stressed area – regular use will drop tension considerably. If you are concerned that you are particularly sensitive we would recommend starting with The Shakti Light, but 95% of customers use the Originals (Orange & Green). More points makes the Shakti Light a gentler way to get the benefits out of your Shakti Mat. Remember, the different strengths are there to fit different bodies.

For how long and how often can I use my Shakti Mat?

We suggest that you start with 15 minutes. Once you are accustomed to the feeling 20-60 minutes per session is standard. However, it is not dangerous to exceed the time limit. Many people fall asleep on the mat and that is perfectly safe. We recommend regular, if possible daily, use.

Is it good for people with fibromyalgia, rheumatism or arthritis to use the Shakti Mat?

Yes. Many people feel positive benefits with regular use. 

Can people with heart problems use the Shakti Mat?

We cannot recommend usage to this particular group of people, simply because the Shakti Mat promotes blood circulation that gets the heart pumping. Always consult your physician if you have a heart related disease before using any therapeutic tool which effects heart rate and circulation.

Can people on anti-coagulate medication use the Shakti Mat?

We cannot recommend people on anticoagulant medication to use the Shakti Mat. This is simply because there will be a circulation boost and this is not recommended for those prone to clotting.

Is it good for pregnant women to use the Shakti Mat?

Did you know there are acupressure points on the body to help induce labour? As such, we do not recommend it for pregnant women. Always consult your midwife before using the Shakti Mat if you are pregnant. Here is some interesting reading on acupressure and labour for those who might be interested http://acupressurepointsguide.com/pressure-points-to-induce-labor/

Can I wash my Shakti Mat?

Yes. When needed you can hand wash the mat using soap and luke warm water. Take the inner foam out of the mat before you wash it. Allow to hang and drip dry. Avoid washing machines and tumble dryers as the plastic points may get damaged (the spikes may do more damage to your washing machine than the mat ;-) ).

Is it appropriate for children to use the Shakti Mat?

Children tend to like it a lot because they relax into it very quickly. It helps them to calm down and relax so try using it at bedtime. We also have some schools using it for children who have trouble focusing.

Can I use the Shakti Mat if I have a skin disease?

The points may feel irritating or sensitive to inflamed skin. You may ease the sensation by placing a thin cloth between your skin and the Shakti Mat. You should stop the treatment if you feel you are getting worse. If you have more questions please email us and we can answer any questions.

Can I use the Shakti Mat if I have epilepsy, thrombophlebitis, an acute illness or fever or have large moles, papillomas or skin inflammation?

We cannot recommend the Shakti Mat for people with these medical conditions.

How large is it and how much does it weigh?

The Shakti Mat rolls up into the tote bag to roughly the size of a rugby ball. Laid flat is measures 68cm by 42cm and weights half a kilo. Some people take the foam out so that they can squeeze it into a suitcase or backpack when they travel.