it all begins with some pain…

Written By Virag Gulyas

As a former ballett dancer (the real one, not the influencer one), I’m rather attuned with my body. I was lucky - or conscious enough - not to have had any major injuries while actively dancing. I do need to mention here how I spent my nights from 8-10pm after my ballet and school training with Anna Dévény, who revolutionized muscle therapy. I’m confident that she did not only save me from a spine operation due to scoliosis, but also protected me from injuries.

Once, I stopped dancing, my body had changed so much. To me at least. For the first year, after leaving the stage, I could not even move. Not out of physical pain, but because of emotional pain. But this is another story.

Today, I want to talk about a product that since I had stopped dancing has become my best friend, my traveling budy, and the go-to present I get to everyone around me.

I just call it the “needle bed”. Truly a bad choice of words here as at this point nobody finds any appeal in it. But then I ask people to trust me - and they do. Most of the times.

Look, I am an Eastern European, I grew up with slogans such as to be beautiful you need to suffer, or whatever is uncomfortable is working.

So the needle bed is definitely uncomfortable - at first, especially if you did not grow up as masochistically as I did. (What can I say, I pretty much enjoy the needle bed).


Jokes aside, it is a life-saver. My mom got one, my dad got one, all my ex-es got one (lucky you), and truly everyone around me has one.

So I hope at this point, you are as hyped as I am.



The needle bed is actually an acupressure mat.


The things it helps with (first hand experience):

  • nerve pinch (once I had such a bad one that it lasted for 5 months. That is when I found this mat and within 2 days, I was good as new)

  • headaches (AMAZING)

  • anxiety

  • sleep issues (just do not fall asleep on it)

  • relieves muscle tension

  • relieves chronic neck pain

  • menstruation cramps (if you are brave enough to lay on your stomach on it)

  • foot pain (step on it and your life changes)

Call me crazy, but I take the smaller version of it in my hand-luggage wherever I go. This serves me better than any pain-killers - and it is definitely better for your body.


Why does it work?

Easy. It is accupuncture on streoids.

The idea is straightforward: the mat exerts pressure on specific areas of the body known as meridians, pressure points, or acupoints. It operates on the same principles as acupressure or acupuncture.

The mild discomfort you may feel is actually advantageous (I told you so), as it can enhance blood flow and circulation while triggering the release of endorphins. When your body detects pain from the mat, your brain responds by releasing these endorphins, which act as the body's natural opioids.

Researchers also found that acupressure reduces levels of the stress hormone cortisol.

How to use it?

Lay your mat flat on the floor or a bed, or drape it over a chair to sit on. You might want to wear a lightweight T-shirt or use a thin sheet as a barrier to get used to the sensation.

Gently sit or lie down, distributing your weight evenly. Once comfortable, remove the shirt or sheet for optimal results.

Discomfort may peak within 30 seconds but should diminish quickly. Focus on deep, slow breaths and relax. Start with 5-10 minutes and gradually increase to 20-30 minutes daily. Avoid excessive movement to prevent scratching, and try not to fall asleep while on the mat.

The product I’ve been using and buying for others is this!

If you are more eco-conscious, this is a good choice (more price-y)

Now, try it and tell me how it feels - and welcome to the group of healthy masochists.

This web site is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice or professional services. I am sharing my personal experience that augments my health. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from eligible purchases.

Virag Gulyas