Often referred to as 'Relaxercise'. I sometimes refer to it as the Lazy person's workout. No grunting at the gym. It doesn't build muscles, it simply loosens all the muscles and joints in your body and has many other benefits.
It provides aerobic exercise, which improves the efficiency of the body's cardiovascular system in absorbing and transporting oxygen.
In just 15 minutes it gives your body the equivalent oxygen benefit of 1½ hours of walking.
I often demonstrate it to clients with chronic back pain, as they may decide they want to invest in a chi machine, around $300 or so, and means they experience less pain, and need fewer appointments, if any!
One FIFO client with chronic back pain due to damaged discs was so impressed they bought TWO machines, one for use at home and one at the mine site!
However, the chi machine has MANY health benefits, not just for helping with back pain. PLEASE ASK IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO TRY THE CHI MACHINE for 10 Minutes as part of your appointment while I explain the benefits.
I have started using the chi machine more in my appointments with clients with back pain. However, there are so many other benefits, that I encourage you to ask for a trial in your session to see for yourself!
The particular brand I use is the Oxy Chi Pro, pictured. It has 20 speeds to choose from.
It helps relieve lower back pain and sciatica and pain in the sacroiliac joint
However, there are many benefits to this machine, which was invented in Japan in the late 1980s. You lie on your back with your ankles resting on the machine. The machine rocks your legs from side to side, sending a wave-like motion through all your body relaxing all of your muscles. So simple in concept, yet amazingly effective, it puts me out of a job. But that's what I am here for, to keep you healthy and well and in great condition!
These are extracts from Malvern Natural Health Care:
'The Oxy Chi Machine is used primarily for relaxation, muscle relaxation and Lymphatic drainage. It is also a great Weight Loss Machine used in our Weight Loss Centre.
It uses a rhythmic motion or bodywave to produce fish like movement throughout the body which creates movement of oxygenated blood and lymphatic fluid. Oxy Chi Machine weight loss works via a number of mechanisms.
The main weight loss benefit is due a detoxifying effect and reduction of extra cellular fluid (fluid retention) 1L of fluid weighs 1kg so a person with 5L fluid retention can loose 5kg in weight in just fluid alone.
Secondly the Oxy chi Machine increases your energy which means you have more motivation and energy to use for exercise which burns calories.
Thirdly is the benefit to digestion and bowel regularity in particular.
Many people with sluggish bowels have found the Oxychi to be of great benefit to relieve constipation and bloating which in turn has lead to weight loss.
The Oxy Chi is incredibly relaxing too, which reduces stress. Stress is one of the biggest causes of emotional eating and poor habits in general.
Some of the The Oxy Chi Machine benefits are due to stimulation of the Vagus Nerve. There is considerable research showing that Vagal Nerve stimulation influences every internal organ as well as improving our mental state.'
For the full article, here is the link to the full Malvern Natural Health Care article. (Opens in new tab).
FYI, the Vagus nerve is the main nerve of the parasympathetic nervous system. It originates in the brainstem and extends to various organs in the neck, chest, and abdomen, regulating involuntary functions like heart rate, breathing, and digestion. The name "vagus" means "wandering" in Latin, reflecting its extensive pathway. It carries both sensory and motor signals, connecting the brain to the heart, lungs, gastrointestinal tract, and other organs.
Chi machines promote improved blood and lymphatic circulation, leading to increased oxygen levels, relaxation, and pain relief from muscle tension and stiffness.
Users report benefits like enhanced energy, better digestion, deeper sleep, and potential improvements in joint health and immune response.
The machine's rhythmic, wave like motion stimulates the body's natural processes, helping to rebalance the nervous system and support the body's ability to detoxify.
Circulatory & Respiratory Benefits:
Improved Circulation: The gentle swaying motion enhances blood flow throughout the body, delivering more oxygen to cells.
Oxygenation: Increased circulation supports oxygen exchange at the cellular level and at the lungs, potentially improving respiratory health.
Lymphatic Drainage: The machine stimulates the flow of lymphatic fluid, aiding the body's natural detoxification processes.
Pain Relief & Muscular Benefits:
Muscle Relaxation: Regular use can alleviate muscle tension, particularly in the back, neck, and shoulders.
Pain Relief: Many users find relief from pain associated with muscle stiffness, headaches, and back problems.
Joint Support: The motion exercises joints, potentially improving mobility and easing pain from conditions like arthritis.
Stress & Nervous System Benefits:
Stress Reduction: The rhythmic movement has a relaxing effect, stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system and easing stress.
Nervous System Balance: By regulating the autonomic nervous system, chi machines can help alleviate stress-related issues like fatigue and anxiety.
Other Reported Benefits:
Improved Energy: Users often report feeling more energized and rejuvenated after use.
Enhanced Digestion: The motion stimulates abdominal peristalsis, which supports digestive function and can relieve constipation.
Better Sleep: Deep relaxation and improved stress levels can contribute to more restful sleep.
Spinal Alignment: The core-driven motion can help to loosen the spine, promoting better spinal alignment.
Immune System Support: A healthy lymphatic system and better cellular oxygenation can contribute to a stronger immune response.
If you want to do some strengthening at the same time, simply arch your back or lift your bum off the floor while you are on the machine to strengthen your core muscles!
I reckon they might be useful in hospitals for people who have to stay in bed for more than a couple of days, depending on why people are in hospital.