Healing Crystals: Benefits, Uses And Where To Buy
I Tried This Company's 30-minute AI-powered Robotic Massage. Here Are The Surprising Results
Last week, I tried my very first AI-powered massage. While I've gotten a traditional massage before, I was unsure what to make of the idea of two robotic arms pressing into my back instead of a human. Would it make me feel in control and comfortable? Or, would it feel—dare I say—robotic and not personalized?
I walked into Aescape's Chelsea office in New York City to find out. I changed into a skin-tight pair of athleisure leggings and a long-sleeved shirt and met CEO Eric Litman, who founded the company in 2017 to address his chronic upper back and neck pain.
"There's something really special about the interaction between what humans can do to help robots better understand people and then help to better improve our lives," Litman tells me onsite. "It's just you and the table. You're in complete control of the experience."
Ahead of the launch, I visited Aescape to try my first AI-powered massage. Alexa Mikhail via Fortune
The robotic massageLitman led me past the rows of company desks to one of their in-house massage rooms, which emulated a spa experience with dim lighting and comforting tones—albeit with two long white robotic arms hovering above the table instead of a masseuse. Litman informed me that sensors above me would take a 3D model of my body and then customize the massage to my form. "It knows specifically what parts of the body like different types of pressure," says Litman, who gets an AI-powered massage several times a week steps away from his desk.
I lay face down, adjusted the music genre—choosing from a range of soft piano tunes and even heavy metal—and toggled the pressure of the automated arms. Litman worked alongside orthopedic surgeons and massage therapists, who he says helped guide the team on how much force the machine would have. "They were especially designed not to be that strong. They're perfectly strong for a great massage, but they're not any stronger and don't have any ability to hurt you," he says, adding that if I press the big red button in the center of the screen, the massage will stop and the arms will move away from me.
During the AI-powered massage, sensors above you take a 3D model of your body. Fortune
You can adjust the pressure of the AI-powered massage in real time. Fortune
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As the massage began, I could see the automated arms in real time on the screen below me as they moved from my upper to lower back. I set the machine to natural sounds and began increasing the pressure. I ended up leaving it at 100%, which felt strong but not overpowering.
Bringing AI to the spaSeven years ago, Litman had begun researching how AI could infiltrate the wellness and health recovery space as the proliferation of tech-based wellness offerings came onto the scene.
After several iterations and testing on over 5,000 people, the company secured $80 million in funding to launch the world's first fully automatic massage machine on March 13, thanks partly to investor and NBA player Kevin Love, who uses the product. As far as Litman knows, this is the first at-scale robotic device designed to be in the closest contact with humans. Aescape is launching in partnership with 10 Equinox gyms in New York City, offering 30-minute massages for $60. The company plans to have 600 operating tables in hotels, workplaces, and sports teams by the end of the year, Litman says in our interview after my experience.
The ideal customer? It's anyone who needs to "recover from life," Litman says. Consumers will range from health optimizers to executives in sedentary jobs. "People are being a lot more thoughtful about taking care of themselves and recognizing that we are collectively living longer," he says, hoping to make recovery an essential part of health instead of merely an indulgence.
"It's just you and the table. You're in complete control of the experience," CEO Eric Litman tells me. Fortune
In response to the most obvious critique of what happens when we lose human touch and connection during a massage, Litman says it's simple. He's not trying to recreate or replace the standard within the $19 billion massage therapy industry. Instead, he says some may feel disem
He also envisions a future where therapists incorporate AI into their practices. "I think over time, as people in general become more comfortable with automated services and solutions in their life, even those who love treatments with therapists will enjoy what we do," he says.
Hands down, I felt more rejuvenated and relaxed after my 30-minute massage. I appreciated having control over the experience, and I didn't feel like it took me out of the moment. At times, I even forgot I was alone in the room. Still, it will be interesting to see if an AI-powered massage can compete with a human masseuse who can discuss your concerns and adapt their technique accordingly. I would be intrigued to try a hybrid approach in the future, where AI offerings for wellness are accompanied by human therapists.
"The idea is that it's familiar. It's comfortable," Litman says. And yet, "It's different."
Massage Therapy
SUNY Cortland Students, Faculty and Staff and current members of the Student Life Center can schedule Massage sessions with NYS Licensed Massage Therapist, Shaniqua "Chickie" Artis.
What Can a Therapeutic Massage Do For You?In the simplest terms, Massage therapy is the manipulation of your soft tissue. So what does it mean to get your soft tissue manipulated? It means to create change within your soft tissue through movement. This can look different for everyone depending on your body's needs. We all hold everything going on within our hearts and mind within our soft tissue. This is why massage therapy is so important! It helps to create that movement within your soft tissue to help release and let go of any tension, pain, and/or dense, heavy thoughts and feelings that are stored in your body.
One might ask, how does change through movement release the things stored within your body? The answer is because it promotes circulation and blood flow to a certain areas of soft tissue within your body. Your blood is your life force energy for all your cells and tissue. An influx or increase of blood to a certain area is going to increase the energy of those cells and tissue, creating an alertness within that area. This wakes up those cells and tissues to do what they naturally want to do, which is be self-healing and self-regulating! So if you have a body...You need a massage!
Massage OfferingsWe offer a variety of massage modalities including Swedish massage, connective tissue therapy, trigger point therapy, sports therapy, deep tissue, treatment massage, reflexology, energy work, and cupping.
Student Prices 15-Min Chair Session $15 15-Min Chair Sessions (Package of 5) $65 30-Min Single Session $30 30-Min Sessions (Package of 5) $140 60-Min Single Session $60 60-Min Sessions (Package of 5) $290 90-Min Single Session $90 90-Min Sessions (Package of 5) $440 60-Min Cupping Session $65 60-Min Cupping Sessions (Package of 5) $315 Faculty/Staff/Student Life Center Members 15-Min Chair Session $20 15-Min Chair Sessions (Package of 5) $90 30-Min Single Session $35 30-Min Sessions (Package of 5) $165 60-Min Single Session $65 60-Min Sessions (Package of 5) $315 90-Min Single Session $95 90-Min Sessions (Package of 5) $465 60-Min Cupping Session $70 60-Min Cupping Sessions (Package of 5) $340 Purchasing a Message Therapy SessionMassage Therapy sessions can be purchased through our online Purchase Portal or at the Student Life Center Front Desk. We accept cash, check, and credit card.
*Portal access: Students/Faculty/Staff will use their MyRedDragon login. All other members will use the username: firstname.Lastname1 and password: recsports1. If you are unable to access this portal, please call 607-753-5585.
After purchasing your massage sessions, schedule your appointment directly with Shaniqua by calling or sending her a text at 315-251-4358.
Please Note:
Interesting in giving the gift of massage? Visit our online Wellness Gift Store to purchase for any member of the Student Life Center.
For more information, call 607-753-5585.
Scheduling Your MassageAfter purchasing your massage sessions, schedule your appointment directly with Shaniqua by calling or sending her a text at 315-251-4358.
Please Note:
Contact Information for Shaniqua will be included on your receipt.
Meet Massage Therapist Shaniqua "Chickie" Artis
Shaniqua "Chickie" Artis has always worked with children in her community as a lead child care provider with the YWCA, teaching basketball classes, Coaching AAU, and with special education. She has always wanted to add to her community in a wholesome way, beginning with the children of the community.
After going to Onondaga School of Therapeutic Massage and working at Wellness Studio in Syracuse, Shaniqua was called to add to her community through integrative therapeutic massage. Her goal in the future is to create something that adds to the community in a wholesome way for everyone.
"My goal as a licensed massage therapist here at SUNY Cortland is to promote healing, integration, and collaboration within the community. I am joyful about helping those with in the community develop a strong relationship and understanding to and of their bodies, soul, and mind, as well as in relation to the world around them.
The 9 Best Massage Chairs Of 2024 To Help With Fitness Recovery
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Massage chairs can be a convenient addition to your home, allowing you to enjoy a massage in the comfort of your own space. Many people use massage chairs to help relieve sore muscles and pain. Further studies are needed to conclude any clinical evidence on whether massages can improve athletic performance, but many studies show the use of massage therapy for recovery post-exercise and warm-up before exercise. In fact, this study from the Wyss Institute and Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences found a correlation between massage and improved muscle recovery. Whether you want a chair for recovery or relaxation, as you start to shop for massage chairs, you'll discover that there are many options to choose from.
Our top picks of the best massage chairs combine ideal features with desirable styles at various price points, so they're an excellent place to start your shopping. In selecting these chairs, we reviewed details about each chair's features, performance, style, massage type and zone and more. We cover everything from full-body and zero-gravity massage to massage cushions that you can use with an existing chair, so whether you're looking for your first chair or you're ready for an upgrade, there are options here to fit your needs. Read on to see our top picks and learn what to look for in a massage chair for your home.
Our Picks for the Best Massage Chairs
SI Showcase + Relaxe
It seems fitting that the Relaxe Zero-Gravity Shiatsu Massage Chair looks like something you might see in the cockpit of an airliner—according to the manufacturer, it's fully loaded with first-class features. At the top of the list is the deep shiatsu massage function provided by 28 small airbags that target the arms, shoulders, calves, and feet. This feature is inspired by the shiatsu massage technique, which focuses on muscles, joints and connective tissue. The chair is also equipped with a heating system and a foot massage roller to enhance the experience.
The extended SL track is ergonomically designed to follow the natural curvature of your spine from the shoulders down. In addition, this chair includes a zero-gravity design to mimic the sensation of weightlessness and a yoga stretching function. A smart remote control comes included with the chair.
Of course, all those features are reflected in the price. Even on sale, the Relaxe Zero-Gravity Shiatsu Massage Chair could cost you close to a few thousand dollars. The company does offer free shipping and a three-year warranty, though. The Relaxe website currently shows an average customer rating of 5 out of 5 stars with nearly 800 reviews.
What We Like:
SI Showcase + Osaki
The Osaki OS Champ is a zero-gravity chair that offers a comprehensive, full-body massage. The 3D massage rollers have four intensity levels, and users can control the roller length for a more targeted massage. The chair features an L-track massage system, meaning the massage on the neck then contributes through your lower back, glutes and upper hamstrings. Twenty-four airbags positioned throughout the chairs offer compression massage of the shoulders, arms, feet and calves to promote blood circulation and help relieve pain. Three rollers on the bottom of the feet help stimulate acupuncture points and complement the massage provided by the airbags.
With heating pads and the capability to recline into a zero-gravity position, this is a great chair to fully kick back and relax in. Other highlights include built-in Bluetooth speakers and troubleshooting support in multiple languages.
The chair is large, and at 300 pounds, it could be difficult to maneuver into a house. However, its space-saving design makes it ideal for homes where space limitations might make other zero-gravity chairs impractical. This is the most expensive massage chair on our list, but its extensive massage features mean it provides a comprehensive full-body massage.
What We Like:
SI Showcase + Homedics
The Homedics Shiatsu Elite II offers the convenience of a massage chair in a much more versatile and portable design. This massager is designed to sit on top of seating, like a couch, or you can attach it to a chair, like an office chair, using the included straps. The Shiatsu Elite II lets you convert existing seating into a massage chair, which is great if you're looking to save money compared to the cost of a full massage chair. This massager is also a helpful solution if you don't have the space for a massage chair.
The massager features deep kneading, gentle rolling and spot massage options, so you can customize it to your pain relief or relaxation needs. Multiple zones mean you can target your upper, lower or entire back, and the adjustable height means the massager can work well for people of different heights. A heat function offers additional relaxation, and all of those features are easily managed with the included handheld controller.
While this massager offers great versatility, several reviewers reported that there is a gap between the top of the back massager and the neck massager. Some careful positioning may be needed if you want to massage your shoulder blade area.
What We Like:
SI Showcase + Real Relax
The Real Relax Dual-Core offers a variety of settings for a customizable massage. The dual-core design means the neck and back massage rollers move up and down independently for a more effective massage than what you would enjoy with a traditional eight-point fixed massage chair. Full-body airbags offer compression on the shoulders, arms, feet and hips, and a one-button zero-gravity function promotes pain relief and relaxation. The chair features six auto programs for easy operation, and there's a lower back heating function for soothing warmth.
The chair comes with a large LCD screen with clear buttons, which is easy to operate, and you can also control the chair using a smartphone app. Built-in Bluetooth speakers mean you can listen to your favorite relaxing music during use.
The chair ships in two boxes, making it easier to get into your home and assemble. This chair is suitable for a wide range of people, with a 300-pound weight limit, adjustable footrest and customizable positioning for the neck massage. One thing to note is its large size, which may not make it suitable for some homes.
What We Like:
SI Showcase + Human Touch
The Human Touch WholeBody 7.1 offers a full-body massage. Five auto-massage programs include full, upper, lower, relax and sleep massages. The calf massage option features a wave-like option that is designed to help maximize blood circulation. The chair's FlexGlide design incorporates an orbital system that helps create a comfortable massage without the pinching that can occur with other chairs.
This chair features a remote control with robust functions. One key highlight is the BodyMap PRO feature, which lets you choose a target area of your body. The chair will then provide a massage targeting that area. The back and leg rest can be independently adjusted for a more customized fit. Several reviewers noted that the chair is slow to recline and extend, but reviews of the chair's overall performance are largely positive.
This massage chair ships nearly fully assembled, but its 114-pound weight means that you will need multiple people to unbox and move it. It swivels 55 degrees, so once it's in place, you have the ability to turn it a bit, which is ideal when watching TV or having a conversation with others. It's also available in four colors, so you can choose the option that best fits your home style.
What We Like:
SI Showcase + UUOF
The UUOF Massage Chair features a track that allows the massaging "hands" to travel from the neck to the legs. You can choose from six automatic and six manual modes, including kneading, acupressure, Tui Na, pounding, percussion and airbag massage for customized performance. Airbags are positioned on both sides of the hips, and three intensity options provide compression massage. A heating function offers additional relaxation on the lower back and hip. The chair's removable headrest lets you adjust the neck massage intensity.
This chair has a freestanding footstool, which makes it a good option for people of all heights. The chair rotates 360 degrees, giving you plenty of positioning versatility without having to move the chair. Bluetooth connectivity and surround sound mean you can listen to your favorite music during a massage. The chair's space-saving design makes it ideal for rooms where floor space may be limited and large massage chairs are impractical.
The UUOF Massage Chair lacks lower leg or calf massage capabilities, but that's also what allows for its more compact design. The installation process is simple, and the chair is available in three colors, including an eye-catching pink, to match your decor.
What We Like:
SI Showcase + Svago
The Svago ZGR Plus SV-395 is one of the sleeker massage chairs on the market, with a design that's suitable for many rooms and a luxurious leather finish. The chair weighs just 68 pounds and takes up minimal floor space, so it's a natural addition to many homes.
The remote control makes it easy to adjust the chair. The recline can reach a zero-gravity position for relaxation and pain relief, and adjustments to the back and footrest allow for multiple positions. The headrest angle can be manually adjusted, and it's paired with a memory foam pillow for comfort. Much like how inversion tables can alleviate back pain, the zero-gravity position can provide a host of benefits for those suffering from pain and inflammation.
This zero gravity recliner features multi-pulse vibration modes for a gentle massage, as well as soothing heat in the lower back area. The extended armrests also help to maximize comfort, and they offer support in all of the recline positions. Several reviewers note that the recline function operates very slowly, but most reviewers confirm that the chair is very comfortable.
What We Like:
SI Showcase + COMFIER
The COMFIER Folding Massage Chair offers excellent portability and convenience at a budget price point. The chair can be folded up and stored away when not in use, which is ideal for homes and apartments with limited space. You could also potentially bring the chair with you to work.
This chair features a neck massager with four Shiatsu nodes, as well as a full back massager with eight Shiatsu nodes. A neck pillow cover allows you to soften the massage intensity or to use the neck portion as more of a headrest. Additionally, the seat's vibration features three intensities. The massage can be paired with heat, or you can use the heat function alone to help relax muscles, and the backrest reclines so you can choose the most comfortable position.
This faux-leather chair includes a USB charging port and a small storage bag for items like a phone. The chair could be an excellent introduction to massage chairs, though several reviewers noted that the massage functions stopped working after a few years of use.
What We Like:
SI Showcase + Snailax
With the Snailax Shiatsu Massage Cushion, you can convert most existing seating into a massage chair. This cushion fits over office chairs, couches and more, giving you versatility and the convenience of massage without worrying about where to put a large chair. It includes a detachable flap and a controller storage bag for portability, and elastic straps help to secure it to most chairs.
The cushion offers deep kneading back massage with full back, upper and lower back settings to help relieve muscle tension. The heat function in the backrest and seat also helps to soothe muscles. The controller is simple and easy to use, and a timer function for five, 10 or 15 minutes is a convenient addition.
At under $100, this cushion is a great way to enjoy massage and heat benefits without investing in an entire chair. Several reviewers noted that due to its height, the cushion is best suited for those shorter than six feet, since the massage zones don't align well for taller users.
What We Like:To choose the best massage chairs, we reviewed qualities including size, price and style. We considered the availability of extra features, like reclinable and zero-gravity options, as well as the availability of different massage zones, massage types and settings. We also evaluated each product's ease of use and considered what user reviews indicated about the product's overall performance and durability.
How To Choose The Best Massage Chair for YouTo get the best results from a massage chair, it's important to choose the chair that's right for you and your specific needs. Massage chairs are available in a wide range of designs and with various features. The right chair needs to be suitable for how you'll be using it, the space you have in your home and your budget, too.
SizeBefore you shop for a massage chair, identify where in your home you want to put the chair. Take the time to measure out the space that you have available, and if possible, put a similarly sized chair in that space to make sure that the room's flow still works with a chair of that size.
Once you know your ideal measurements, keep those handy as you shop for a massage chair. Keep in mind that you will need extra room for reclining chairs, or for those with zero-gravity features.
If you find that your available space isn't large enough for a full chair, consider a massage cushion, which you can use on top of one of your existing chairs.
PriceTry to decide how much you're comfortable spending on a massage chair before you start shopping for one. Price tags can vary significantly. Massage cushions are available for under $100, but some of the higher-end massage chairs can cost $2,000 or more.
If you have some flexibility in your budget, think about the types of features that you would be willing to pay a little more for.
StyleConsider the style of chair that you would prefer. Massage chair styles can range from the minimalistic to the high-tech. Think about the chair styles that most appeal to you. You might also want to consider your existing home decor when deciding on a chair style and color.
Massage Type and ZonePay attention to the types of massage and the massage zones that a chair offers. If you frequently experience pain or tension in a specific area of your body, you'll want to buy a chair that is capable of targeting that specific zone. For example, some chairs offer leg compression and calf massage or have a foot roller, but many chairs don't offer these types of massage.
Different massage techniques and intensities will give you more options in how you use the chair. Kneading and deep tissue massages are common, but look for options that include other massage and vibration patterns, too. Preset programs and timed massage options can also be helpful and convenient.
FeaturesA massage chair's features can enhance the value you get from the chair. Many chairs are now offering compression in certain zones, and features like heat can provide additional relaxation and more for a more soothing experience. Depending on your needs, you may want to look for other specific features, like Bluetooth connectivity, phone charging capabilities or overall portability.
Ease of UseThink about how easy the chair is to operate. Many chairs include simple remote controls, but chairs with extensive features can have more complicated remote controls. Some chairs allow you to control them using a smartphone app, while others have a manual lever for a simpler operation. Think about the type of control that will be easiest for you.
Massage Chair FAQsIs it OK to sit in a massage chair every day?The ideal frequency for massage will depend on your health and the issues you are trying to address. According to Megan Krupka, LMT at Bodyworks DW, massage therapy results are cumulative, so it's helpful to get into a regular schedule. Both the duration and frequency of massage sessions may be important. A study on the effects of massage on neck pain found that participants who had 60-minute treatments two to three times a week experienced more pain improvement than participants who did not receive massage. Participants receiving 30-minute treatments two or three times a week did not experience that same improvement.
That said, be sure to consult with your doctor if you are using a massage chair or massage gun to address problems like joint pain or injury recovery. Your physician or physical therapist can help you determine the best massage chair use frequency for your needs and health.
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What is the difference between a traditional massage chair and a robotic massage chair?Traditional massage chairs are somewhat basic, stationary chairs designed for you to lie on while a massage therapist performs a massage. Robotic massage chairs are electrically powered chairs that include massage elements, so you can operate the chair and receive a massage without the help of a massage therapist.
Can a massage chair replace a massage?Today's massage chairs feature advanced designs that can do a good job of providing a basic massage, especially when they have settings that allow you to choose the massage type and intensity that you prefer. However, these chairs won't fully replace the benefits you get with a massage from a professional massage therapist, since they can provide a more comprehensive and personalized massage than chairs alone.
What does a zero-gravity massage chair mean?A zero-gravity massage chair is designed to recline your body and elevate your legs slightly above your heart. This "zero-gravity" position creates a feeling of being weightless. The Center for Spine & Orthopedics explains that achieving this neutral posture offers several health benefits, including helping pain, reducing swelling in the extremities and boosting blood circulation.
How many years does a massage chair last?The lifespan of your massage chair will depend on several factors, including the chair's durability and how often you use it. Most manufacturers estimate that massage chairs last five to 10 years, though some estimate that chairs last 10 to 20 years.
Final Thoughts: Is A Massage Chair Worth Investing In?Massage chairs can be excellent investments, benefitting people who spend long periods on their feet, who have chronic pain or who just want to be able to relax at the end of a long day. Research indicates that massage offers benefits when it comes to pain relief, and massage can be a great way to relax, unwind and pamper yourself.
With a massage chair, you can enjoy the convenience of a massage in your home. When shopping for a massage chair, it's important to consider the type of massage you need and other important features, like the use of heat or compression. Our top picks for the best massage chairs are a great place to start as you shop for a chair that's best for your needs.
Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.
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