How an Acupressure Mat Helps You Sleep Better

Can’t sleep? If counting sheep gives you a headache, try this sleep hack: Lay on a bed of nails. It stimulates acupressure points along your back called meridians, which studies show can induce relaxation. If lying on a bed of nails doesn’t sound too tempting, an acupressure mat can have a similar effect, without the ouch factor. That means you can finally drift off to dreamland and sleep more deeply. Here’s everything you need to know about this tool, plus effective tips to make the most of your time on the mat.

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What is acupressure?

In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), acupressure is based on the stimulation of meridians — a network of energy pathways throughout the body. That stimulation increases the flow of “qi,” or bioenergy.^[1] Using the same principles as acupuncture, pressure is applied to specific points on the body to treat conditions ranging from nausea to insomnia.^{[2] [3] [4]}

There are pressure points all over your body, including your wrist and your heel. You can stimulate these points with your hands and deep, firm pressure, like a self-massage. In TCM, this practice is used for conditions like stress, high blood pressure, and anxiety.^[5]

So, what about sleep? Studies show that acupressure helps patients sleep better and wake up less frequently during the night.^[6] [7] In one randomized clinical trial, patients reported improved sleep quality as soon as they started receiving acupressure massage.^[8] 

For better shut-eye, you’ll want to stimulate the pressure points associated with relaxation and stress relief. You have a ton of acupressure meridians all along your spine and shoulders. An acupressure mat hits these points all at once, which helps you drift off more easily to dreamland. Keep reading to find out how it works.

Related: How to Use Tapping (EFT) for Anxiety and Stress

How an acupressure mat works

Most acupressure mats are about the size of a small towel. The Bulletproof Sleep Induction Mat is designed to stretch from your neck to your pelvis, and one side is studded with small plastic spikes. It looks like a pillowcase crossed with a porcupine, but don’t let those spikes fool you — they play an important role in activating your nervous system and stimulating those pressure points for better sleep. Here’s how:

Stimulates acupressure meridians

The meridians along your spine and shoulders are associated with relaxation and restfulness. When you first lay down on an acupressure mat, your nervous system will have a mild freak out because of the spikes. But once your body realizes you’re safe and sound, you’ll feel a flood of warmth on your back, followed by a release of muscle tension.

Releases feel-good hormones

As your blood circulation increases, your body will release feel-good hormones called endorphins. Think of those endorphins as a form of natural anxiety relief — great news if you’re the type of person who stays awake at night with tons of thoughts running through your mind.

Relieves tension

It’s tough to fall asleep when you’re stressed out. As your body releases stress and tension held in your muscles, you’ll feel more zen, loose, and ready to drift off. Plus, you’ll sleep more deeply.

Related: Bulletproof 30-Day Sleep Challenge

How to use your acupressure mat for better sleep

• Experiment with more or less time: Some people lay on their mat for just 15 minutes, while others extend their session to 40 minutes. There is no ideal time — experiment and pay attention when your body starts to feel sleepy.

• Meditate while on it: Meditation rewires your brain so you can feel happier and calmer. Compound those benefits with acupressure while you listen to one of these guided meditations on your Bulletproof Sleep Induction Mat.

• Stimulate your neck meridians: Want to release tension in your head and neck? Place the mat on a rolled-up towel. Lay down so the spikes press into the base of your skull. Lay for up to 15 minutes.
• Try different sensations: If the spikes are too intense, wear a T-shirt while you lay on the mat. If you don’t feel your body releasing tension, try positioning the mat closer to your neck or closer to your pelvis.

Read next: How to Sleep Better: Science-Backed Sleep Hacks to Wake Up Ready to Go