Massaging neck pillows: the healthy travel revolution
Can you imagine doing a 10-hour flight and feeling better than when you first boarded? neck massaging pillows are authentic miracles for your travels.
Neck massaging devices are not new, many health brands, like Homedics, have created amazing products, but they are definitively not suited for a flight, where luggage space is limited.
When we discovered these portable solutions, we were in awe with their benefits and now carry them everywhere.
One example is when we are working on the computer and use them on our neck or back, as they couldn’t be more convenient and comfortable.
They are as light as normal travel foam pillows with the added benefit of the vibrating or heating functions. Yes, they can also warm up the area they are massaging.
The result is like traveling with a massage therapist except that it’s cheaper and you can do it anywhere, anytime.
Pros
– Amazing massage capability (shiatsu technique)
– Memory foam
Cons
– No heating feature
This wonder takes you to another level with the massage system they managed to include in such a tiny pillow. It uses shiatsu massage technique, rather than vibration
Check out our review of travel eye masks to give you even more quality sleep.
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What kind of vibrating neck pillows are available on the market
Although our first pick is not exactly a vibrating neck pillow, most of the alternatives available on the market use the vibration system.
In this article, we focus on traveling, which requires mostly portability, the typical wrap around pillow.. Nevertheless, there are professional massage pillows that can almost perform a Thai massage.
The main feature of the following options is a vibrating mechanism inserted into the pillow, sometimes in one side, that pulsates rhythmically when activated.
The number and type of vibrating patterns varies with the models, but they mostly last 10 to 15 minutes, not more. If you want a longer massage, you need to reactivate the system.
The original models used lithium batteries, but most of the newer models are charged through USB cable, which is very convenient and environmentally friendly.
There are some more advanced models that also heat up the neck while working. Don’t expect an over-the-top heating system, although it can be pleasant and effective in alleviating pain.
Because we believe the quality of the massage is more important, our first pick does not have the heating system. But you can check the other models to find those options too.
Benefits of neck and shoulders massage
- Muscle Soreness
If you spend too much time working on the computer or on long flights, you will probably have sore muscles, even if you haven’t noticed it yet. Getting a massage can benefit you as it acts as a natural painkiller. - Migraines
If you unfortunately suffer from this malaise, then rest assured that a neck massage can do miracles. Many people have found that massages are enough to prevent migraines more than anything else they’ve tried. It actually promotes better blood circulation, which reduces head pressure, a common cause of migraines.
- Stress and anxiety
Because it promotes relaxation, a massage might reduce your stress levels too. When we are very anxious, our neck and shoulders are affected right away, and receiving a massage on those areas can make wonders for your mood.
- Immune system
This claim is more far fetched, but some studies have shown that after repeated massages, white blood cell and lymphocyte levels – which are the main fighters of our immune system – have increased.
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The 5 best massaging pillows
All of our contenders, selected for different characteristics.
Pros
– Amazing massage capability (shiatsu technique)
– Memory foam
Cons
– No heating feature
This wonder takes you to another level with the massage system they managed to include in such a tiny pillow. It uses shiatsu massage technique, rather than vibration
Pros
– Heating feature
– High quality materials
Cons
– Bulkier
This model is from a reference brand and adds the heating feature. It’s the lowest in terms of portability, though
You can watch how it works so well in this video:
Pros
– Heating feature
– Light and portable
Cons
– Low warming capability
This wrap around pillow is the lightest and easiest to pack of them all and surprisingly with heating feature too.
Pros
– Budget option
– Light
Cons
– Uses batteries
The cheapest of them all but with satisfactory performance, nonetheless.
Pros
-Light
-Portable
Cons
– Uses batteries
Similar to our third pick but without the heating feature.
Why should you travel with a vibrating neck pillow
Because it is too affordable and too good for your health to ignore it.
If you already travel with a pillow, then why not upgrade for the massage benefits.
If you don’t have a travel pillow and you are not are willing to carry some extra grams, then grab one of these right away.
Why shouldn’t we care about our bodies every day?
If you are looking for travel health advice check also eating healthy on the road guide or our last article about the Steripen, the best solution to always have access to drinkable water.
