Aching legs, a sore back, or a racing mind are just a few of the barriers that can sidetrack a good night’s rest. It’s no surprise that around 70% of Americans report having trouble sleeping at least once a month.
Given the relaxing benefits of using a massage chair, it is only natural to wonder if sleeping in a massage chair is a good idea. If you are wondering if falling asleep in your favorite massage chair could be bad for you, read on to learn about the potential benefits and pitfalls of dozing off during at-home massage therapy.
Can a Massage Chair Help Me Sleep?
Sleeping during massage therapy is completely natural. Massages relieve stress, which is a leading barrier to sleep. Stress causes a heightened state of alertness that can prevent the onset of sleep for many people.
The benefits of stress relief and enhanced sleep through massage therapy should not be underestimated. People who do not sleep well can have trouble focusing on the following day.
Lack of sleep from stress can lead to daytime irritability that can damage personal relationships. Stress can even lead to high blood pressure and other health problems.
If you suffer from chronic stress or insomnia, a quality massage chair can potentially address both of those issues.
A Quality Massage Chair can:
- Improve blood circulation
- Provide relief from aches and pains
- Reduce or eliminate headaches
- Boost energy levels
- increase flexibility
- Reduce pain from injuries
Massage chairs can enhance the quality of sleep with little to no risk of side effects. If you have trouble sleeping, contact a local massage chair store to find the right massage chair for your home and budget.
Can I Sleep in My Massage Chair?
You may be wondering — Is sleeping in a massage chair bad for you?
Let’s start with one simple fact: Many of the owners of massage chairs frequently doze off while sitting in their massage chairs. It is perfectly natural and safe to sleep in your massage chair.
Special Considerations When Sleeping in a Massage Chair
The gentle massaging actions of a massage chair are safe for short naps or longer periods of sleep, but there are other considerations to keep in mind when sleeping in a massage chair.
You’ll want to choose the best incline for safe and comfortable sleep. If you have sleep apnea, chronic back pain, gastroesophageal reflux, or other conditions, you may have specific levels of reclining you need to maintain.
Following surgery, your doctor may recommend not lying flat for a certain period of time. Other people may have health problems that make lying flat uncomfortable. Fortunately, most massage chairs are fully adjustable to meet the needs of users.
If your body naturally rotates throughout the night, the restrictive nature of a massage chair may make sleeping difficult. The leg attachments of many massage chairs can make changing positions challenging.
Sleeping in a massage chair is completely safe and even beneficial for many people. If you have specific concerns about a medical condition, ask your doctor if it is OK for you to nap or sleep in a massage chair.
Finding the Right Type of Massage Chair
There are many makes and models of massage chairs that are designed to meet the unique needs of buyers. Here are a few of the more popular types of massage chairs.
Zero-Gravity
A zero gravity massage chair allows your body to recline to the “zero gravity” position. This is the body orientation that raises your legs above the heart. These types of chairs evenly distribute body weight to achieve ultimate relaxation.
Wall-Hugging
When space is an important consideration, you may want to explore buying a wall-hugging chair. These massage chairs rest against a wall so you can undergo massage therapy while seated in an upright position.
Shiatsu
Shiatsu comes from the Japanese word for “finger pressure.” The massage technique combines kneading, stretching, stepping, rolling, and other motions to promote relaxation.
Reclining
Most massage chairs offer a reclining option, which simply means that the portion that supports the back can recline backward. These chairs often include supports for legs to simultaneously extend outward.
Japanese
Japan is a leading designer and manufacturer of massage chairs. While there is no one official “Japanese” approach to manufacturing massage chairs, the island nation is widely considered one of the best in the massage chair industry.
Heated
Many massage chairs include a heating function. The application of heat during massage cycles further relaxes muscles while soothing aches and pains.
Full-Body
Some massage chairs focus on the neck and back. A full-body massage chair massages the legs, arms, and head. A full-body massage chair is often considered the ultimate relaxation experience.
4D
4D massage chairs arguably offer the closest experience for a personal message. The rollers (often heated) can roll along three axes. 4D massage chairs often have rollers that protrude farther out than other types of massage chairs.
Find the Right Chair Type
There is a perfect massage chair waiting for you. Choosing the right design and features starts with understanding what your comfort needs are. If you work with a chiropractor or physical therapist, ask that professional which design would work best for you.
Then, visit a reputable massage chair dealer and try several models out. A massage chair is often a lifelong investment, so you’ll want to pick the right one the first time around.
Enjoy the Benefits of Sleeping in a Massage Chair
At the end of a long day, a relaxing massage can melt away aches and pains. One of the benefits of sleeping in a massage chair is restful, rejuvenating sleep. While napping in your massage chair is typically considered safe, be sure to pick the best incline level for your body.
Are you interested in enjoying the pleasure and benefits of a full-body massage from the comfort of your home? Visit our comprehensive website to learn about which massage chairs we have in stock and which units are on sale. If you see something you like, contact our comfort consultants.