The modern "bed of nails" is a soft mat with thousands of tiny plastic spikes. It is also known as a massage, acupressure or acupuncture mat. When you lay down on the mat,
the spikes stimulate various acupressure points in your body. The stimulation of these key points in the back, neck and elsewhere releases a chemical called endorphins. Endorphins are thought to alleviate pain, release muscle tension, improve sleep, ward off anxiety and reduce stress.
Stress is linked to weight gain in several ways. First of all, stress
releases a hormone called cortisol. Cortisol is believed to be
responsible for slowing down metabolism and contributing to the storage
of abdominal (belly) fat. Stress can also trigger emotional overeating and
disruption of sleep patterns in many individuals. Lack of sleep, in
turn, contributes to weight gain by interfering with the body's
production of ghrelin and leptin, two hormones that are associated with
the stimulation and suppression of appetite, respectively. Additionally, sleep
deprivation often results in fatigue and less physical activity,
including exercise.
The bed of nails mat aids in managing stress by not only stimulating acupressure points and releasing endorphins, but also by forcing an individual to relax and do nothing but lay down for 30 to 40 minutes. This "down time", in and of itself, provides immense health benefits and can lead to aiding in weight. Controlling stress is one of the keys to success.
The bed of nails experience can be enhanced by listening to relaxing music, meditating or catnapping.
There are some safety warnings associated with the use of the mat. It is not to be used by pregnant women or by individuals with sensitive skin, high blood pressure, heart and certain other medical conditions. If you have any health-related issues, check with a qualified medical or healthcare professional before using the mat.
The mat is available from at least six different manufacturers online and at retail outlets and the price ranges from $20.00 to $50.00.
