Week 2: Back on track

This week has been all about experimentation. On days where my back is feeling stiff and tired, I’ve been combining my lying-down mat sessions with a big snuggly blanket, plus a 10-minute Headspace meditation, which is definitely more relaxing than simply setting a timer and waiting for it to be over.

I’ve also been incorporating my mat into my working day, by draping it over the back of my chair. I keep my top on, so the feeling is less acute, but I find the little pressure points bring a greater awareness of my posture and I’m less inclined to slump. I occasionally like to work standing up and when I do this I’ll sometimes stand on the mat too. At first it feels akin to stepping on my son’s Lego bricks, but afterwards my feet almost feel like they’ve been treated to a massage.

Week 3: Nailed it

After my first session on the mat I was dreading three more weeks of what felt like pointlessly lying on the world’s most uncomfortable beach towel. But, in my final week, particularly on days when I’ve been hunched over my computer, I’ve found myself craving those little spikes in my back.

My shoulders are less achy and after a session on the mat my back feels noticeably looser and less rounded. I still have stress and anxiety headaches, but having dedicated time away from a screen has offered some relief and I am now contemplating an acupressure pillow too. I’ve also noticed myself sleeping better, although whether this is due to the mat or simply some time to myself I’m not sure, but either way I’m taking it as a win.

Back pain relief: “I tried a ‘bed of nails’ acupressure mat for three weeks to improve my sore back – here’s my honest verdict”