Acupressure is personal, so to get all the benefits of an acupressure mat you need to consider the level of initial discomfort you're willing to experience. At Shakti, we offer 3 intensities that all unlock the benefits of acupressure. Find the right one for you on any Mat or Pillow page. Look for the intensity guide.

Shakti Acupressure Pillows are also available in different intensities, but the key differences between the two are shape‎ and firmness.

Premium pillows are shaped with greater surface area and plush fill for more versatility. They can be used for tension relief in the back of your neck and head, and throughout your body. Traditional half-moon acupressure pillows are stiffer, making them best suited to relieve neck tension only.

Spikes aside, one way to explain the benefits of pressure is through deep touch pressure (DTP). When pressure is applied to specific points through your body, its natural response is to release chemicals like serotonin – commonly referred to as the happy hormone.

When pressure is applied without spikes, it's similar to the feeling of a big hug. When pressure is applied with spikes, the effect is a little like tricking your brain into thinking you're in pain. The initial "Ouch!" kicks your brain into gear and causes it to release chemicals like oxytocin. By the time you realise you're not actually in pain, you're already feeling relaxed and at ease.

Whether you're tired, sore, stressed – or a combination of all 3 – the right acupressure mat can help you relax, unwind and recover faster than you could on your own. By tapping into your body's healing systems, you gain a deeper understanding of yourself and maximise your downtime in minutes.