According to the International School of Shiatsu, shiatsu is a form of massage that uses thumb or finger pressure on meridian pathways of the body. Shiatsu applies firm pressure to "energy points" with the goal of reducing stress and improving digestion, respiration, elimination, circulation and immune function. Shiatsu can be applied by a masseuse, a hand-held massager or a massage chair.
Osaki OS-4000 Executive Massage Chair
Offering more special features than a sci-fi DVD, the Osaki OS-4000 Executive Zero Gravity Deluxe Massage Chair looks like a chubby leather robot. This top-of-the-line massage chair includes several types of massage in addition to shiatsu, a zero gravity design, and electronic sensing technology that will modify the massage according to the unique curvature of the user, giving the massage a more human-like feel. It has six auto-programs, including health care, relax, and therapy, with five speed settings all controlled by a wireless mini-controller.
This luxurious chair also boasts 32 air bags with 10 in the feet, 10 in the calves, three in the seat, two in the back, two in the shoulders, three for the neck and an additional three at the hip area.
The Osaki OS-4000 retailed in 2010 for $4,999 at Osakimassagechairs.com but could be found on sale for $2895 with free shipping.
Berkline 16022 Feel Good Massage Chair
The attractive Berkline 16022 Feel Good Massage Chair is a fully loaded chair that features nine different massage settings, including shiatsu and Swedish massages, auto-scanning--which adjusts the massage to the user's unique body shape--an air pressure system for the calf and foot areas, seven pre-programmed massage settings and a manually adjustable setting. This chair is uniquely fitted with shiatsu massage in the seat, calves and feet. The footrest automatically adjusts to the user's height for a customized massage. It has a convenient LED remote controller and a 15-minute automatic shutoff.
As of 2010, the Berkline 16022 could be purchased at furniture stores around the country and at online retailers for about $2,200.
Panasonic EP1080K
Designed to feel incredibly human-like with massage therapist techniques, the Panasonic EP1080K features eight manual massage settings and four automatic massage styles, including shiatsu, Swedish, and deep tissue kneading, operable by a user-friendly remote controller The chair specializes in concentrating the massage around the neck and shoulders, focusing on acupoints to stimulate and relax the body. The contemporary design is slimmer than some bulkier full-feature chairs, making the EP1080K perfect for apartments or smaller office spaces.
As of 2010, the Panasonic EP1080K could be purchased online for $1699.95.
Member Comments