Best Shiatsu Zen Massage Machine Reviews

Why a shiatsu zen massage?

Our bodies take on a lot during the day. Standing, walking, sitting, and talking seem like mundane activities, but when carried out for a long time without respite, they can take a toll. We want to help you find ways to let your body recuperate and rest. A great way of doing this is finding some way to incorporate a massage in your day. Most would say there’s not enough time or money to add a shiatsu zen massage into their busy lives.

However, there’s no need to go out of your way to find a massage therapist or professional masseurs. In fact, world-wide problems like the pandemic may make you reluctant to go out any more than you need to. It’s a vicious cycle though, as the pandemic brings its own wave of stress and tension. However, with the increase in technology, there are amazing and convenient ways to bring a shiatsu zen massage right to your doorstep. There’s no need to risk your health or spend even more effort to get a massage.

This article will review the best shiatsu zen massage machines out there to help you relax and unwind. Shiatsu is a form of massage therapy that comes from Japan, and is derived from the Japanese term for ‘finger pressure’. As this suggests, it involves applying pressure to specific points in the body and moving from one point to another in a rhythmic sequence. Shiatsu massages apply pressure to points in the body that are thought to be connected to pathways throughout our bodies.

Massages massively improve circulation and lymphatic drainage. This, in turn, gets rid of toxins that build up in the body throughout the day. Massages also reduce muscle soreness and swelling, as well as easing tension. This helps rid our bodies and minds of unnecessary stress and anxiety. Massaging specific regions, such as the feet and regions near the feet, also has immensely beneficial effects on the rest of our body parts.

Overall best shiatsu massage chair

General information

Increase the zen atmosphere in your home with this chair! The Nirvana 3D massage chair from global relax has made it to the top of our review for many reasons. A key feature of this recliner is that it provides a 3D massage. This type of massage system replicates what a professional masseur would do. The massage heads move vertically ( 2D massage), but also backward and forwards, giving you a 3D massage. The massager is designed to target the body’s main acupuncture points. Thus, the Nirvana massage chair helps eliminate pain in the back, alleviate muscle soreness, and ease problems in other parts of the body.

Its dimentions are 33.9 x 50 x 55.1 inches, and weighs approximately 330.4 lbs.

The arm chair has 8 automatic massage programs and 3 manual ones. Some of these are:

Demo-this demonstrates the whole massage function. It shows the user how the chair works.
Comfort- this massage program provides a full massage, from the head to the feet.
Pain relief-this is a deeper massage of specific acupuncture points that helps relieve pain.
Relaxation-this is ideal for relaxing muscles, especially after a hard day of work or intense sporting activity.
Total air pressure-the airbags around the arms, waist, abdomen, and legs all work at the same time. This benefits the whole body and helps relax it.
Massage with music-add your own relaxing melody to the massage to bring a real zen moment to your day.
Waist stretch-this massage program involves the leg-rest airbags squeezing and rising while the back-rest is pulled backwards.

What massages does the Nirvana chair offer?

In total this chiar offers 7 different forms of massage:

SHIATSU: this is given by exerting pressure on 2 parts of the body at the same time. It perfectly emulates the movements performed by professional masseurs. It targets the main pressure points in acupuncture and reduces stiffness and tension-especially in the neck area.
KNEADING: this is carried out with slow movements on the main parts of the body. This massage replicates the feeling of fingers exerting pressure on areas of the body. This type of massage helps improve circulation and eliminate muscle tiredness and knots.
TAPPING: this copies the tapping movement of hands on the muscles from the top of the back to the bottom. You can choose the intensity of the tapping.
CLAPPING: these are slight touches along the back with the option of adjusting the speed. It helps to relax the back so the rest of the massager (which exerts more pressure) can work more effectively.
KNEADING AND TAPPING: this incorporates both massage techniques simultaneously-something impossible for one masseur to do.
STRETCHING: this movement runs from the top of the body to the bottom and simulates the movement of stretching the back. This decreases rigidity and stiffness in that area. It has four positions, H0 (fixed position) to H4.
GRIPPING: this shoulder grip mode is adjustable in its speed and intensity. The airbags placed near the shoulders press down, and there is a stretch in the chest area.

Special features

The chair targets the following acupuncture zones:

FENGCHI point: this is found in the upper back and neck, typically very painful areas for most. This eases tension in the back, shoulders, and neck. It can also help with back problems like torticollis.
PISHU point: this is found in the middle back area. Targeting this point benefits the intestines and helps bring down mental and physical fatigue levels.
NEIGUAN point: this is one pressure point found in the arms. It’s important because it’s closely related to the heart. Therefore, targetting it helps lessen palpitations and increase blood flow.
SHOUSANLI point: another pressure point located in the arms, this time relating to the large intestine. It promotes the flow of energy in the stomach and large intestines.
FENGLONG point: this is located between the foot and knee. Targetting it helps to calm and relax the mind because it’s closely related to the chest, and helps improve breathing.

The Nirvana chair also comes with LCD remote control that’s super detailed and easy to use. It outlines all the features of the Nirvana chair and allows you to adjust anything at the touch of a button. The chair also includes a magnetic therapy function, as it has 10 magnets inside it.

Pros

It has the latest digital 3D audio system and Bluetooth function. You can connect your phone or tablet to the massage chair and enjoy your favourite songs as well as a massage.
Zero wall/space feature-the chair is designed to maximise space-saving. Unlike most massage chairs that need a lot of space to recline, this one only needs 2 inches (5cm) of space between it and a wall. Hence, it’s designed so you can place it anywhere.
It has a heating system in the back and lumbar region. The chair provides heat using carbon fibre with infrared technology. It reaches temperatures of up to 50 degrees celsius.
Zero gravity function-the chair puts you in a comfortable position that reduces pressure on the spine and extremities.
Comes in several colours-cream, brown and black. Each of these makes it ideal for any room in the house.
Massages important acupuncture points to promote the flow of energy throughout the body.
Has a reflexological gua sha massage system for the soles of the feet.
Covered with two years warranty, and this can be extended to 5 years.
Has wheels so it can be moved around.

Cons

It’s large, and can be difficult to extract it from the box it comes in.
The instructions for the chair are detailed, but in a small font, that’s hard to read. It may require magnification.
It’s very heavy when it comes to moving it around.

Runner-up shiatsu massage chair

General information

The Samsara massage chair from Global Relax was a close runner-up. When it comes to bringing an atmosphere of complete zen into your home, Global Relax really knows what markers to hit. The Samsara has 5 massage modes, some of which include are air-compression, reflexology, shiatsu and a zero-gravity massage. The ergonomic L-shaped chair has 4 massage heads and rollers of about 6.21 cm width. The width of the rollers has 3 adjustable levels. The 5 modes are;

Shiatsu therapy massage
Kneading
Knocking
Tapping
Kneading and tapping simultaneously

It can be programmed to remember up to 2 specific massages that you have customised to your needs. Further, the Samsara has 6 automatic massage programs. These are neck and shoulders, lower back and waist, comfort, relax, relax 2.0, and fatigue recovery. It also has 3 manual massage programs; complete, partial, and specific static points. The chair has 3 speeds/intensities levels and has wheels so it can be moved easily. An LCD touch control comes with it for you to control the functions on the chair. The airbag massage is another great feature. The recliner chair has 28 airbags, 1 injector and 8 valves. There are 4 airbags around the shoulders, 8 around the arms, 8 around the abdomen and 8 around the legs. The chair measures 31.5 x 45.3 x 52 inches and weighs 220.26 lbs.

Special features

The back cushions have a carbon fibre heating system that reaches up to 50 degrees celsius. The Samsara also comes with an electric footrest that vibrates with 3-speed levels. The footrest is also extendible, this means and adapts to everybody’s heights. The 4 massage heads not only move vertically but also side to side and have adjustable width levels. A double layer of material covers the chair for added protection. The first layer is thinner and transparent, and the lower layer is thicker and porous. The lower layer is made of PU leather, a plastic compound. This compound utterly resembles leather and combines all the beauty and benefits of real leather with the added benefits of a plastic compound. This means it’s protected against harmful external agents like sunlight that can cause fading and spots.

The Samsara has a control panel on the inner right side as well as a remote control. The panel includes a USB charging point for mobile devices. It also has a special zero-gravity feature. This provides perfect lineation between the heart, legs and back with angles of 135 and 118 degrees to improve blood circulation.

Pros

Zero gravity feature.
Reflexological massage feature for tired feet-this vibration reflexology technology is a special massage mode for the soles of the feet.
Upholstered with special PU leather for added protection and comfort.
Can save up to 2 massage programs customised by you.
Elegant design that goes well in any room.
Immense health benefits include oxygenation of muscles, improvement of blood circulation and optimises lymphatic drainage. It provides relaxation which is essential to combat stress.

Cons

It provides a very strong back massage-perhaps too strong.
It could do with thicker padding on the backrest because you can feel the rollers quite acutely.

Best shiatsu massager for feet and legs

General information

The Vitalzen from Global Relax is an amazing way to give your feet and legs a real shiatsu massage. It has 30 mini airbags and 3 massage modes (full body, lower body, upper body). Also, it comes with 3 massage pressure intensities that you can adjust. It includes kneading, shiatsu, acupressure, acupuncture and a percussion massage with an active roller. The massage modes for these massages can be adjusted from continuous, to short pauses or long pauses. It has a carbon fibre heating system which applies heat to the inner thigh, ankle, calf and knee. It’s massage rollers make it perfect for reducing muscle fatigue and aiding recovery, as well as helping with RLS (restless leg syndrome). Due to its vibration features the Vitalzen also has an anti-cellulite effect and stimulates blood flow in the leg region. It’s also effective at reducing pain caused by plantar fasciitis.

The Vitalzen’s control panel is super easy to use and has a removable washable fabric cover to maintain hygiene. Its dimensions are 16.7 x 22.6 x 19.9 inches and it weighs 44 lbs. It supports feet sizes of up to a UK12.

Special features

The Vitalzen has a very unique design. It has 2 folding sections that work separately. When folded down, the vitalzen looks compact, like in the picture. However, the top part of the Vitalzen extends up to the knees for a full leg massage. The upper section has a maximum extension angle of 110 degrees, and the lower section can be sloped at an angle of 20 degrees. It has wheels to make it easy to take around the house. The design means that it’s fairly intuitive when it comes to using it, and has an automatic shut down after 15 minutes of use.

Pros

Not too big and comes with rear wheels, making it extremely portable.
The different massage modes target various muscle layers of the feet, calves, ankles-rejuvenating and relaxing these areas.
Reduces stress, tension and pain with its thermal element and soothes tired feet.
It has many adjustable massage modes so you can personalise your shiatsu massage experience.
It reaches so many areas in the lower body; legs, feet, calves, ankles, thighs and knees.

Cons

A bit bulky, so it makes it hard to lift up and onto a sofa/bed if you want to use it lying down.
Not cordless.
The foot rollers are a bit too strong-it’s recommended to keep it on the lower intensity.

Best massager for the head

General information

The Breo iDream5s has made it to the top of the list when it comes to head massagers. The massager has the latest non-invasive kneading, heat technology and air pressure. Not to mention the microchip program that gives instant pain relief and relaxation because it massages the neck, ocular regions and head at the same time. The iDream5s has 150 nodes and 7 air chambers that target key areas of your head with its advanced air pressure massage system. By pressing on these specific pressure points around the head and neck, the massager reduces soreness and pain. Therefore, stress levels are reduced and this promotes mental and physical well-being. The iDream5s boosts blood flow which brings more nutrients to the blood and soothes sore spots on the scalp and neck.

The materials are top-quality. A special protein leather coats the inside, making it softer and more durable than normal or faux leather. It’s a more resilient and supple material that adds that extra bit of comfort to your massage experience. It has a 90-minute battery life duration. Its built-in lithium battery means it’s completely cordless. So you can enjoy a deep head massage without worrying about cables and plug sockets. Charging it fully should give it enough charge for one full week ( around 15 minutes use each day). It comes with a storage case, earphones, an adapter, a charging cable and a user manual. It also comes with a 12-month warranty and 30-day refund or replacement guarantee.

What kind of massages does it offer?

The 150 nodes apply a relaxing range of deep kneading to the eyes, upper neck, and scalp. The heat compression combines with an enhanced air pressure system in one powerful helmet, and this in turn helps relieve chronic headaches and even migraines. The airbags create a very precise and gentle head massage that emulates reflexology-like kneading. It also connects to the Breo app for absolute control when it comes to adjustments, Air pressure, kneading patterns, heat and time duration can all be fully customised on the Breo app. Further, it also gives an optional powerful scalp massage at the press of a button.

More massage modes include finger-like kneading and pulsing, and it comes with 5 massager heads. All this truly helps you unwind and release stress and tension from the head and upper neck area-areas that tend to be very sore for many. This in turn encourages better quality sleep.

Special features

The iDream5s has a fully adjustable circumference, thus, a wide range of people will be able to use it. The range of circumferences is 56 to 65 cm. There’s a handy air pressure button which makes it even easier to take off and put on. Further, the full head massage is a great feature. It means that the whole head (temples, scalp and forehead), as well as the upper neck and ocular regions, all get massaged simultaneously. Still, if you wish you can choose to have certain areas massaged independently rather than simultaneously.

It also has its own selection of relaxing music that you can play while having your heads massaged. However, by using the app you can add your own music as well. The app allows you to control all of the massage features via a Bluetooth connection. Essentially, the Breo app is like a remote control. You can customise the massage modes for your own needs; adjust the heat, music settings and session length on your phone or tablet.

Pros

The iDream5s helmet connects wirelessly to the Breo app so you can control and customise your massage experience from your phone. You essentially create the perfect massage tailored to your needs.
The goggles (eye massager parts) are completely removable so you enjoy a head and neck massage while reading or watching something.
The massager isn’t noisy
The head strap is totally adjustable so it will fit a wide range of heads.
Unlike many other head/eye massagers, the iDream5s gives a full head massage. It can isolate certain areas to massage them independently, but it can also massage everything at the same time.
You can customise the air pressure intensity from 0 to 100% on different areas like the scalp, neck, forehead and temples.
It can even play music from the iDream5s while getting your head massaged. You can also add your own music as well as the in-built tunes.

Cons

The music that comes in-built in the helmet is a bit too loud and can only be lessened by downloading the app.
The scalp massager is too strong, especially on the highest intensity.
Must have a clean, dry head before using (no ointments, creams, oils, makeup etc.)
Can’t wear glasses, contact lenses or head accessories while using the massager.

Best Back and neck shiatsu massager under £200

General information

This Donnerberg shiatsu neck, back and shoulder massager is our chosen best for the under £200 mark. It exudes true German quality and is superbly designed with excellent materials. It’s even recommended by the German Olympic Association and physiotherapists! Further, it comes with a 7-year warranty, assuring you that it’s manufactured with the highest German quality standards. It provides a deep tissue 3D shiatsu massage which stimulates specific areas in the body. This in turn releases stress, reduces tight knots, and relieves aches and pains. Although it’s specifically designed to perfectly fit the back, neck and shoulder area, it can also be used elsewhere. This massager can be used on the feet, thighs and calves. Therefore, the Donnerberg massager is clearly very versatile and has many uses.

The intensity of the massager is completely adjustable. It has 3 speeds and 8 massage heads, as well as 2 different rotating directions for a more effective massage. The massager has 2 levels of infrared heat and ergonomic handles which will increase your comfort, but also allow you to manually adjust the intensity. Essentially by pulling on the handles, you can make the massage stronger if it needs to be. Thus, you can completely tailor your massage to what your body needs. The massager is also completely portable, as it weighs a mere 1.85 kg and you can easily take it around. It’s not battery operated and has a cable of 2.8m.

What kind of massages does it offer?

As well as a shiatsu massage, it also comes with infrared and vibration modes. The heat function for the massages has 2 adjustable intensity levels. Its effects go well beyond the skin and contribute to a more intense muscle-relaxing experience. The vibrational massage helps reach the deep-lying muscle tissue and increases blood circulation. This in turn really helps to relieve tension. The Donnerberg massager provides a 4D massage. This is due to the fact that the uniquely designed massage heads are flexible, and glide gently over the areas that need to be massaged. This creates the feeling of a real hand massage. Further, strength and massage pressure are individually adjustable.

Special features

The massager comes with a vibration feature which works alongside the shiatsu massage. The vibration cannot be used independently of the other massage settings. Nevertheless, the vibration function helps stimulate your nerves while making your muscles relax. It also helps with reducing stiffness in the neck and shoulders so you can enjoy a greater range of pain-free motion in those areas.

More great features include the 3 covers with zippers and the hygienic soft cloth. The 3 washable covers are made from a soft mesh, breathable material. They can be easily removed from the massager by unzipping them and should be washed at 30 degrees in the washing machine. The covers are robust but soft and comfortable at the same time. It’s a really good feature because many massagers are hard to clean, and hygiene is very important. Sweat and dirt from the body easily rub off on any massager, so keeping it clean is essential for a comfortable, safe and hygienic massage experience.

Pros

It comes with a 7-year warranty and is made from really good quality, durable materials.
Quality of the product is further confirmed by its recommendation by the German Olympic Association.
It’s a very versatile massager. Although specifically designed for the back, neck and shoulders, it can certainly be used elsewhere. It can also be used on the feet, thighs and calves.
It’s light, only 1.85kg, and can be easily transported around the house or elsewhere.
It has a long cable which is 2.8 metres in length, therefore you don’t have to be near to a plug socket.
It has a control panel with 5 adjustable functions. These can be operated with ease by pressing shortly on the button.
The motor is powerful, yet quiet. The motor is durable and has been further optimised through enuring very high German quality standards. This helps it to support the massage units even more effectively. The quiet motor means you can do other activities, like watching TV, while having your massage.
Washable and spare fabric covers to ensure high levels of hygiene.
The vibration function is really helpful for easing knots and stiffness.

Cons

The vibration function is great but it cant be used independently of the other massage features.
The massager isn’t cordless, so its position will be limited by the length of the cable.
The controls are difficult/uncomfortable to access. They’re located somewhere near the neck, so you have to press the start button before putting it on. Or you could try and crane your neck to switch on the controls while you already have it placed around your neck. Obviously, this will be difficult if you suffer from neck pain.
Cannot be used with oils or creams

Best shiatsu massager for the neck under £200

General information

The Breo iNeck 3Pro is our chosen best massager specifically and solely for the neck. It has a comfortable c-shaped design that gives the right amount of support for your head and neck. This allows your hands to be completely free while you have your neck massaged. You can sit at a desk or on a sofa and still benefit from a neck massage. You can even be working/reading/watching TV and simultaneously enjoy a proper neck massage. The iNeck shiatsu neck massager eases stiffness in muscles by using shiatsu kneading techniques such as pressing and kneading. This ultimately relaxes the cervical vertebrae and improves blood circulation in that region.

The iNeck 3Pro has three different massage modes and comes with a heating function. This helps with upper back and neck-related problems caused by sitting at a desk all day. These problems can be anything from lumbar muscle strain, serious upper back pain, and shoulder pain. It comes with a fabric cover, a charging cable, and a user manual. Also, the iNeck comes with a 12-month warranty and a full refund or replacement within 30 days. It’s suitable for a 30-40 cm circumference neck and has three hours of battery life.

Special features

It’s 270-degree c-shaped design gives it a 50% wider reach than most other neck massagers. It has a solid foundation of bilateral massaging orbits, as well as position-changing nodes that give a flexible variation of massage types. Therefore, you get a much deeper reaching massage than most, which is perfect after a long day of work. Like the Breo iDream 5s, this massager can be controlled fully via Bluetooth on the Breo app. This means you can choose from a wide selection of massages, such as a deep tissue massage. The powerful massager can therefore be customised to suit your relaxation requirements and needs.

Its ergonomic design not only comfortably fits around your neck, but targets pressure points through the use of 3D ergonomic neck-circle design theory. This precise acupuncture massage applies constant pressure to these spots to release stress and ease tension from the neck and the spine. The selection of massage pressures and intensities is actually designed to remove the build-up fo lactic acid and give relief from stress and tension. It comes with an extra fabric cover, so you can replace the original and maintain good hygiene.

Pros

No vibration, only kneading, so the massager is very quiet (only 30-40 dB). This makes it perfect for use during other activities, and it can be used in an office environment.
It’s light and portable, with no cables. This means you can take it on trips, and move around freely with it while walking.
The massager pairs with the Breo app so you can totally customise your neck massage to your neck. You can switch modes easily, change the speeds, duration and spot that’s being massaged.
Comes with a spare fabric cover so you can replace the original one and maintain good hygiene.
It has a heat therapy feature that really helps ease neck tension, release stress, and improve blood circulation.
The iNeck is very easy to use and is simply operated with two buttons. These are an on/off button, and a mode selection button. The program is set to turn off after 10 minutes, but all this can be changed by using the Breo app.

Cons

Anyone with a neck circumference larger than 40 cm is going to find it on the small side. This probably make it a more suitable option for women than men. Definitely not for you if you have a big neck.