Mobile Devices, PDAs, Phones and Gadgets

Many people are recognizing the importance of getting the regular massage treatments. Regular massage helps to relax the body and mind to assist in the recuperation and recovery phases in your health program. One of the most convenient ways to get a full body massage is with a massage chair. One of the top chairs that you should consider is the Omega Montage Elite massage chair.

The Omega Montage Elite massage chair is one of the most complete massage therapy environments available. It contains numerous massage therapy treatments but also importantly it also has many therapeutic treatments. These therapeutic treatments enhance your overall massage experience.

One of the best ways to relax your mind is with music. All massage therapists clearly understand that music is the key to relaxing the mind. The Montage Elite comes with a music system which includes an MP3 player, USB stick and headphones.

Stretching is considered an important activity before and after a workout. Stretching helps to flex the muscles and improve the range of motion of joints. This recliner comes with a lower body stretching system which is great for relieving tightness in the hips, knees and ankles.

I found the lower body stretching system of the Montage Elite to be very relieving. It really helps to decompress the spine and stretch out the larger muscles of the legs. It integrates fully with the automatic massage programs to provide a seamless experience.

The application of heat is commonly used in sports medicine. It is used to enhance blood flow while reducing swelling. There are full body heaters contained in this recliner. You can activate or deactivate different parts of the heating system depending on where you would like to apply heat.

The invigoration of this recliner can be quite substantial. There are deeper penetrating programs which provide for soothing relief. I prefer deeper tissue massage and the Montage Elite is one of the few chairs that can deliver it effectively.

Targeting particular trouble spots is simple and easy with this recliner. You can choose from four different manual massage techniques. Choose a technique such as kneading, and then select the area you wish to target.

I like to be able to target a specific area when I have a particular problem spot. Sometimes I feel stiffness in my lower back. I like to use a rolling massage just in the lumbar area. This helps to slightly move the discs along my spine to improve their flexibility and provide relief.

This recliner also has powered recline. You can set the angle of the chair back to 170. Simply use the remote control to set the chair in the angle most comfortable for your massage.

The leg rest also contains a motor. You can adjust the angle by using the remote control. The leg rest can also extend out an extra 4 inches. There is also a 90 ticket capability of the front portion of the leg rest.

The remote control comes with a large liquid crystal display. This enables you to see the operations of the chair as they occur. Icons symbolize different massage techniques which display when they are activated.

Get the benefits of regular massage treatments with the Omega Montage Elite massage chair. You’ll find that this recliner comes with the most therapeutic features providing for the best overall massage experience. Get the full relaxation and relief that you deserve with the Omega Montage Elite massage chair.

gadgets and gifts

advice, alternative health, electronics, gadgets and gifts, gift, gifts, health, massage, product review, review, shopping, tip, tips

Massage chairs are an excellent platform for receiving regular massage treatments. There are many health benefits associated with the receiving regular massage treatments. These advanced recliners now come with a host of features offering a number of therapeutic treatments.

You’ll find that massage chairs come in a number of styles and prices. The typical entry level massage chair may only massage your back and calves. As you move up the price level, you will find more and more features integrated into these advanced recliners.

Luxury massage chairs, on the other hand, provide you with a host of every conceivable feature. There are motorized controls to angle the chair back and the leg rest. These high-end models provide a full body massages with many automatic programs.

Body Scan: advanced technology is being integrated into many of these recliners. Different infrared sensor technology is being utilized to perform body scan. These scans look for key points of the back like the neck and shoulders. Some even create a three-dimensional map of your back including the curve of your spine.

Acupressure: acupressure is a fundamental massage used in techniques like shiatsu. Massage chairs apply extremely precise pressure on certain acupoints in the body. This is done to help stimulate these areas to help the flow of energy throughout the body.

Air Massages: one typical new feature to provide a full body massage is air massage systems. An air pump provides compressed air through a series of solenoid valves. The air pressure is directed to specially designed airbags to provide a relieving compression style massage.

Leg Rest Extension: one feature that is important is a leg rest extension. Many leg rests can be fixed in a given location making it harder to target trouble spots on the legs. A leg rest extension feature can allow you to move the leg rest anywhere from 4 to 6 inches allowing you to better target the point of massage.

Auto Massage Programs: there are normally a number of auto massage programs contained in a recliner. This enables you to get a full body massage at the touch of a button. The massage program operates the entire chair and synchronizes the massage for full body relief.

Reflexology Foot Massage: many people have tired and aching feet at the end of the day. Nothing is more soothing than a foot reflexology massage. Massage chairs have specialized reflexology plates which stimulate the trigger points on the soles of your feet. Specialized airbags are used to provide a compression massage relieving tension and stiffness in the feet.

Manual Massage Techniques: you’ll find a number of manual massage techniques contained in these recliners. Choose a technique such as kneading, rolling or tapping. Additionally, you can select a specific point or region of the body to receive this manual massage technique.

MP3 Players: manufacturers of massage chairs have recognized the importance of relaxing the mind during a massage treatment. A relaxed mind releases its tension over the body allowing the massage to be much more effective. Music players with included headphones are typically found in massage chairs to help you better relax and receive a more thorough treatment.

Health massage chairs are a great way to get regular massage treatment. There are many positive benefits to receiving regular therapy sessions. Health massage chairs come with a host of popular features making him a great alternative to a massage therapist. Get the convenience of a health massage chair in your home or office and see what a huge difference it’ll make in your life and well-being.

gadgets and gifts

advice, alternative health, electronics, gadgets and gifts, gift, gifts, health, massage, product review, review, shopping, tip, tips

This product review will evaluate the Panasonic EP3222 model massage chair recliner. The EP 3222 is part of the Real Pro Elite series. Panasonic has a full range of massage chairs and this model is one of the high end chairs that they make. This review will analyze the features, functions and warranty coverage of the EP-3222 massage chair.

Warranty coverage is an important aspect of purchasing any manufactured product these days. Although quality levels continue to improve and the incidence of breakdown is minimal, you still want to make sure you have protection. Warranty coverage is like obtaining an insurance policy. One you hope to never use, but just in case it is there if you need it.

What is the warranty coverage of the EP-3222 massage chair? Panasonic provides coverage in the following areas: 3 years parts are covered, 1 year labor is also covered. Panasonic also offers in home technician service. This is covered for the first 90 days after the purchase. This warranty is a little light compared with other manufacturers in this class.

One of the advanced features of this massage recliner is the body scan technology. When you sit in the chair and start the program, the chair will perform a scan of your back. The chair actually maps your back and locates your individual acupressure points. It memorizes them and then prioritizes the most important. The data is then fed into the software program and the massage is customized for your body.

Another innovative feature of the EP3222 is the floating massage mechanism. The floating massage mechanism is patterned after the hand movements of a master masseuse. The floating mechanism consists of 2 to 4 firm rubber massage heads. These massage heads can very accurately simulate certain massage movements like pressing with the heal of the hand, stroking with the palm of the hand, thumb-like kneading and thumb-like pressure.

How about the massage treatments in the EP-3222? There are plenty of treatments for the most demanding massage requirements. You will find 11 basic massage modes in the EP3222. They have designed 6 automatic massage programs. You can select from manual massage techniques like Swedish or Shiatsu. These programs are well designed and very effective in providing relief.

This is a full body massage chair and comes with a lower body air massage system. The air massage system comes with 33 airbags that provide a soothing compression style massage. The airbags are inflated which provide a firm squeeze on your buttocks, thighs, calves and feet. You can vary the level of air pressure to find the perfect compression level to provide relief.

The remote control has large format buttons for each of the automatic programs. Just touch the button and the automatic massage starts which will run the entire chair. There are buttons to adjust the chair back and leg ottoman with automatic controls. You can also store or memorize certain massage programs. This is great for setting up a given massage for you that you can later recall on demand. Panasonic also includes a voice guidance system. The voice guidance system can be activated to walk you through the steps of using the remote control.

How about a great stretch? The EP-3222 Real Pro Elite comes with a stretch function for your legs. This function will elongate the muscles from the hips, thighs, knees, calves and ankles. This type of stretch is excellent to help improve your joint mobility and to increase your flexibility.

If you have been looking for a high end massage chair, the EP-3222 comes with an arsenal of massage functions. The massage techniques are highly engineered and provide effective relief. We do recommend you consider an extended warranty as your long term insurance policy. This is a solid massage recliner built by a company making chairs for many years. If you get the opportunity, try the EP-3222 Real Pro Elite massage recliner.

gadgets and gifts

advice, alternative health, electronics, gadgets and gifts, gift, gifts, health, massage, product review, review, shopping, tip, tips

If you are feeling out the market for massage chairs, then consider going to a Home Show or County Fair. You may find massage chair vendors. We have had many clients buy massage chairs at Fairs, for instance, and then only have a series of problems. We checked into a number of these venues as mystery shoppers posing as serious buyers. Based on input from our customers and our own firsthand look, we offer 5 tips to avoid mistakes, so you get the best massage chair to meet your long term needs.

1. Massage Chair PC Boards are Important: Massage chairs use computer software and pc boards to run the massage chair. The pc board or motherboard is the key board that runs the major functions of the chair. The sub boards are important as well. Ask where the pc boards are from. You want them from either Japan or Singapore. These have advanced chip foundries to make top quality boards. Shoddy electronics will make parts of the chair to malfunction or not work at all. This requires expensive service calls to have replaced down the road.

2. Beware of Over Generous Warranties: Many of these vendors promise very compelling warranties. The question is: Will they be here tomorrow to honor that warranty? One way to find out is to ask the salesperson if they have independent internet dealers, (That doesn?t mean their own website or E-bay!). Or even better, do they have retailers that have physical brick and mortar locations (preferable a known chain store). If not, then chances are they may never answer your call down the road for help. (The number you have reached has been disconnected and there is no new number–beep!).

3. Our Massage Chair is From Sanyo’s Factory: One of the more interesting sales claims we came across with surprising frequency is that their chair is from a major brand’s factory. The salesperson says they get their massage chair from them. I guess we are supposed to think that Sanyo is going to private label their chair to a guy who sells at a home show? The interesting thing is his price. Why is it so low compared to the real Sanyo. It doesn’t make sense to us and shouldn’t make sense to you either!

4. Jack of All Trades, Master of None: Beware of vendors at fairs and home shows that sell everything but the kitchen sink. This is a sure sign of a one man importing machine. Now, I have a healthy respect for the entrepreneur, but one must specialize. I have seen booths with a couple of massage chairs along with a million other gadgets. It is like a one man flea market. These guys import everything and anything, especially what they just got a good deal on. Seriously, who knows what massage chair will be on the next shipment? They are armed and dangerous. Use Extreme Caution!

5. I Can’t Believe The Deal I Am Getting: Always remember, you get what you pay for. There were few peddlers that offered a $5,000 massage chair for $1,500 and came with a 5 year warranty. Wow! We couldn’t believe it. This chair is made in Panasonic’s factory! We tried to do the math. Free shipping, long warranty and cheap price. They can’t be making any money! How could we resist? Most likely we would have bought into a series of frustrating future problems and be left with a boat anchor in our living room.

With the help of our customers, we offer you these nuggets of advice when shopping at a home show or county fair. There are many excellent massage chairs at these events. It is a great venue to take a break and try one. You will find the major manufacturers at these events and can take advantage of their special show price. Just make sure if you are seeing too good of a deal, then dig a little deeper to avoid some of the pitfalls we point out for you.

gadgets and gifts

advice, alternative health, electronics, exercise, fitness equipment, gadgets and gifts, gifts, health, massage, massage chair, product review, review, shopping, tips

This is a review of the Real Pro Ultra Panasonic EP 30003 Real Pro Ultra massage chair. Our system of massage chair review is based on 5 categories. We give each category equal weight of up to 20 points. We add them all up to give a possible score of 100 points.

This systematic approach helps to present massage chairs from the same vantage point to help make comparison easier. If you are looking for a massage chair, then check out the Real Pro Ultra. The model EP 30003 is a mid range model.

Warranty & Customer Service: It is important that the manufacturer stand behind its product and provides good customer service. Panasonic has 1 year labor and 3 year parts. Panasonic uses a counter to monitor the machine hours. The warranty will expire after 1,000 hours of use. Panasonic has average warranty coverage. Customer service is through your retailer or national service centers. Service time and quality is variable and dependent on where service is obtained. Our Rating in this category is 16.

Comfort & Ergonomics: The comfort and fit of any chair is important for the use. Panasonic usually makes it chairs pretty ergonomic. The Real Pro Ultra is no exception. The back pad is comfortable and plush. The head pillow can be adjusted to fit different heights of users. The arm rests are padded and are fairly wide. The footrest does not extend, so this can be problematic for taller users. Taller users would have to bend their knees to get a foot massage or extend the footrest horizontal to and put their legs through. Our rating in this category is 17.

Ease of Use: As technology advances, it is easy to include everything including the kitchen sink for functions. Although it is nice to have many features, they cannot be a burden on the user to become familiar with them. Panasonic has loads of experience with electronics and this fact is not lost on them or their massage chairs. Just to be sure Panasonic includes a voice guidance system to assist the user. The remote is intuitive and the descriptions are accurate. Even the individual programming is not too hard to learn for the average user. One nice feature is the 5 minute quick refresher function. This gives you the option to just hit one button and get a quick refresher massage. Our rating in this category is 18.

Key Features: The key features for the EP 30003 is the Junetsu massage and the reflexology foot massage. Panasonic has developed an ultra fine kneading technique. Junetsu uses one-second circular thumb-like movements. This helps to loosen knotted or tight muscles. The circular motion penetrates down through the muscle tissue. The foot reflexology massage reflexology nodules built into the foot wells of the foot rest. An air compression system is used to gently squeeze the feet. The reflexology nodules then push up into the pressure points in the feet. The reflexology massage helps to relieve tension throughout the entire body helping you to relax. Our rating of the Panasonic EP30003 KU in this category is an 18.

Massage Therapy: The most critical function are the massage therapies that can be delivered by the chair. This recliner is capable of full body massage. It covers the back and neck with the back rollers. The lower body is covered comprehensively with the air massage system. The Panasonic Real Pro Ultra has 5 automatic programs 4 manual massage techniques and 4 manual courses. With the auto programs choose from the following: Refresh, Shiatsu, Deep, Swedish and Stretch. There are a total of 14 airbags for calf and foot coverage. We give the Real Pro Ultra a 19 for this category.

What is the overall rating for the Panasonic Real Pro Ultra EP30003 KU? Adding up our scores, we rate the Panasonic EP30003 KU as an 88/100. The best feature is the Junetsu ultra fine kneading massage. Panasonic developed this for its higher end chairs and was able to integrate into the EP 30003 at a much lower price point. The remote control also has the voice guidance system which is nice for new users.

The remote also comes with a voice guidance for those unwilling to read. The warranty is one area that most likely needs an extended warranty. Taller users need to see how well they fit, since the footrest does not extend out. Otherwise, Panasonic has done a good job for this massage chair recliner.

gadgets and gifts

advice, alternative health, electronics, gadgets and gifts, gift, gifts, health, massage, product review, review, shopping, tip, tips

There are many decisions to make regarding purchasing a massage chair. However, if you have limited mobility or foresee this in the future, then an important decision is your choice of powered or manual recline. The recline feature can either be powered for both the chair back and the leg rest. We will take a look at the pluses and minuses of either system.

Many of us are familiar with the manual recline of a typical recliner. There may be a lever to raise up the leg rest using a series of springs or an air cylinder. A lever may also be used to recline the chair back.

Power recline: a power recline is most commonly found in the midrange to high-end luxury massage chairs. Powerful motors are used to lower the chair back or to raise the leg rest. Normally, a button on the remote control is used to activate the motor to position it in the desired angle.

If you have limited mobility, then you may opt for power recline. Some people may have trouble accessing the levers or having to assist in the lowering of the leg rest. Also, to raise the chair back, you must sit up slightly allowing the air piston to push the chair back to its upright position.

If you are thinking about a manual recline, then consider where the manufacturer locates the levers. I have seen some chairs where the lever was in quite a hard place to access. This can make it difficult to change the position of the chair when you are fully laid back.

There are manual levers which need to be accessed. Be sure you can find the levers easily. Make sure you try the chair in different positions and that it is easy to access the levers. Sometimes you may be able to access one lever but not the other.

Of course, if you can afford a powered recliner, then this is certainly the way to go. A powered recliner allows you to easily move the chair back up and down or the leg rest up and down. The buttons are normally located on the remote control, so the remote must be positioned close enough to access it from any angle.

There are also a number of massage chairs which have a combination of powered and manual. Most typically, you find a power chair back recline and a manual leg rest lever. These chairs generally are in the midrange level.

Both of these systems are very reliable. These systems will last for years when the chair is used properly. Be careful that you use the chair properly and not put too much weight when the chair is in the reclined position.

If you are looking at a high-end chair, then you almost certainly will find a powered recliner. If you are more budget conscious, then a manual system may be appropriate for you. Be sure to look at the mobility needs of you and others in your household before deciding.

Be sure to research your massage chair choice well. It is important to make sure that the recliner is ergonomic. Just make sure that you select what is appropriate for your needs. A massage chair is a long-term health investment. Be sure you research it appropriately to meet your long term needs.

gadgets and gifts

advice, alternative health, electronics, gadgets and gifts, gift, gifts, health, massage, product review, review, shopping, tip, tips

With health care costs on the rise, everyone is looking to save money. Health care is looking to automation to help offset expenses. Most industries transition from labor intensive to capital intensive. Now we are seeing the potential of massage therapy transitioning to capital intensive or the use of machines/equipment. With the rise of massage chairs, many massage techniques can be delivered effectively with these chairs. How is money actually saved in this situation?

Let us take an example. We go to get our massage at the day spa. First, we need to call them and schedule a time. We are going to have travel time to go and come back from the massage. There is also the total time involved. Massage time is the bonus time the rest of the time can be considered the cost involved. The massage is not free, so we must pay for the time of the massage and a gratuity. If we go 3 times every month, by the end of the year we are spending thousands.

Maybe you see a chiropractor. A chiropractor may adjust you and then put you through various therapies to stimulate and relax your muscles. You may need to do stretching and other activities to help you heal. Health insurance may cover some of these costs or if you are lucky all of these costs. The effectiveness of chiropractor visits is in the beginning. The chiropractor sets you on a course to recovery. In time, the effectiveness of the visits will start to diminish, but the cost is still the same or rising. Again, these bills can run you hundreds of dollars per month which turns into thousands of dollars per year.

Traditional massage therapy has been delivered by humans for centuries. Certainly this is a fantastic method to receive massage therapy. However, massage chairs now provide an alternative that delivers effective massage therapy. These therapeutic recliners range in price from $1,000 to $7,000.

We do interesting things when we compare. We look at things in the short term. I see the price of getting a massage as $75/hour and think that is cheap compared to a $3,000 massage chair. Is it really cheaper? Let us find out. My massage costs $75/hour plus gratuity which at 15% is $10.00 for a total of eighty-five dollars. How many hours of massage therapy do I get for the cost of a massage chair? Let us divide the $3,000 by the $85/hour. We get 35 massage therapy hours.

The massage chair cost is equivalent to 35 hours of massage therapy performed by a massage therapist. How long are massage chair rated to last? Typical massage chairs in the $3,000 range are designed for 1,000 to 2,000 hours of life. Let us take the lower number of 1,000 hours. How much does an hour of massage therapy cost on a massage chair. $3,000 divided by 1,000 gives us $3/hour of massage therapy! The best part is you do not have to tip the massage chair. You can pay a massage therapist $85/hour or $3/hour for a massage chair.

The real economics of the massage recliner is that it is a vastly superior value to traditional massage therapy. Obviously, getting a massage from a masseuse has its advantages beyond just the economics. But massage chairs also have some major advantages of availability and accessibility. Not to mention the overwhelming economic advantage. There certainly is tremendous value over the long run with a massage chair.

gadgets and gifts

alternative health, bodywork, diet, exercise, fitness, gadgets and gifts, gift, gifts, health, massage, shopping, tips