About Shakti
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The Shakti Mat is a holistic wellness tool designed to support overall health and vitality. It is most commonly used to encourage restorative sleep, healthy circulation, relaxation of tense muscles, relief from stress, and general vitality. Rooted in the principles of acupressure, these benefits can be experienced easily and naturally from the comfort of your home.
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Acupressure is a time-honoured and well trusted practice with deep roots in Eastern traditions. While this practice is reasonably new to the Western world, it dates back 2,000 years and is now adopted by reputable practitioners around the world. The Shakti Mat mimics this ancient technique to reproduce the benefits and make the practice of acupressure more widely available. To discover how others have experienced these benefits, explore customer reviews and real-life stories here.
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When you lie on a Shakti Mat, thousands of precision-placed spikes apply gentle pressure to the skin and underlying muscles. For many people, the initial sensation can feel intense or prickly. This usually lasts only a few minutes before a warm, tingling feeling develops, similar to the sensation of deep heat, as circulation increases in the area.
As the warmth builds, discomfort fades, muscles begin to soften, and built-up tension releases. Many users describe a sense of calm or bliss, and some even drift into a deeply relaxed, sleep-like state.
Everyone’s sensitivity to pressure is different. Some people adapt within minutes, while others may need a few sessions to become comfortable. With regular use, the body learns to respond more easily to the pressure, and the initial intensity becomes part of the relaxation process rather than a barrier to it.
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For many people, the initial experience can feel uncomfortable. This often happens because the body enters a natural “resistance mode,” especially if you’re carrying physical tension or mental stress. After around 3–5 minutes, that discomfort typically begins to soften and shift into a state of relaxation. Everyone’s experience is different, while some take to the Shakti Mat immediately, others may need a few sessions, or even a couple of weeks, to fully adjust.
Here are our top tips for first-time users:
Tip #1: Relax and surrender.
The more you tense up or resist the sensation, the more intense it can feel. Focus on slow, steady breathing to calm the nervous system, or gently distract yourself with a book, podcast, or TV show as your body settles.Tip #2: Be patient with yourself.
There’s no need to be a “perfect” Shakti user from day one. Approach each session with curiosity rather than expectation. With time and consistency, the sensation becomes more comfortable, and many people soon find they wouldn’t want to skip a session.If you’d like more guidance on moving past the initial Shakti “hump,” feel free to reach out to the team or join the wider acupressure community. You’ll find plenty of supportive, like-minded people ready to help you along your Shakti journey.
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The Shakti Mat works through direct contact. When placed against the body, its spikes apply targeted pressure to the skin, stimulating acupressure points. For your first session, start by applying the Mat to your neck, shoulders, back, or legs, as these areas are the most commonly affected by tension. However, any area of your body can be targeted. There is no limit for time or frequency of a Shakti session, and it is completely normal to fall asleep on the Mat.
There is no strict limit on how often or how long you use the Shakti Mat, and it’s completely normal to drift off to sleep during a session. To experience the full acupressure effect, we recommend aiming for at least 15 minutes.
For your first few sessions, you can wear a thin t-shirt or place a pillow case over your Mat while your body adjusts. However, bare skin is best to experience the full Shakti sensation. Use your Mat on any surface. Common places include in bed, on the floor, on a seat, or on a couch. Softer surfaces provide more 'give', so this is a great place to start.
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Shakti spikes are sharper than anything you’ll find elsewhere. So, when it comes to building a wellbeing habit that involves lying on spikes, it shouldn’t come with unnecessary discomfort.
We designed Level 1 to tread that line between tension release and initial discomfort perfectly. And while our return rate is tiny (around 1 in every 271), the main reason people decide Shakti isn’t for them is that they went too far too soon.
No matter which Mat or Pillow you choose, the sensation of tension releasing never loses its impact. What does change over time is your tolerance to pressure. As your body adapts, your practice can naturally deepen, allowing you to explore longer sessions, new areas, and an even greater sense of relaxation.
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We want everyone to feel confident experiencing the benefits of the Shakti Mat. That’s why we offer a 30-day free returns policy. If you’re unsure whether the Shakti Mat is right for you, you can return or exchange it free of charge.
To start a return or exchange, simply visit our contact page and log in using the email address or phone number used to place the order. If the item was received as a gift, contact us with the full name of the person who placed the order, and our team will get back to you with clear next steps.
Returns & Exchanges
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Not completely satisfied with your purchase? No problem. You can return your item free of charge within 30 days of receiving your order, provided it is in the same condition as when it was delivered. You can request a return online, using our contact page. To log in, you will need the email address or phone number you placed your order. If the item was a gift, please contact us with the full name of the person who placed the order, and we'll get back in touch with instructions.
Once your return has been received and processed at our warehouse, a full refund of the product price will be issued within 5 working days.
Please note: Returns and exchanges do not apply to wholesale/B2B orders.
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If you find your Mat or Pillow too light, or too intense, you may exchange it for another level within 30 days, provided the goods are in the same condition as when you received them. You can start your exchange online, using our contact page. To log in, you will need the email address or phone number you placed your order. If the item was a gift, please contact us with the full name of the person who placed the order, and we'll get back in touch with instructions for the exchange.
This policy applies only to Shakti products purchased directly through the Shakti UK website. Products purchased from authorised retailers are not eligible for returns or exchanges through Team Shakti Distribution Limited. If you wish to return or exchange a Shakti product bought from a retailer, please contact the retailer directly, as each retailer operates under its own returns and exchanges policy.
Please note that we only offer 1 exchange per order.
Shipping
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We offer free standard shipping within the United Arab Emirates.
For orders shipped outside the UAE, a flat shipping fee of AED 50 applies.
Shipping charges, where applicable, will be clearly displayed at checkout before you complete your purchase.We cannot ship directly to the Channel Islands at this time, but you can order Shakti Mats to the Channel Islands through our Amazon webstore.
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We have two shipping options available:
- Orders are typically shipped within 1-2 days.
- Orders shipped outside the UAE are typically delivered within 4–5 business days after dispatch. Delivery timelines may vary depending on destination, customs clearance, and courier operations.
Orders are shipped with EasyEcom tracked courier or Yodel, dependent on the volume of your parcel. The courier will be confirmed once you receive tracking and all orders are shipped from Vanya Ventures Trading L.L.C, UAE.
Wholesale/B2B orders may take an additional 2-3 business days.
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We currently ship to UAE and some parts of the Middle East (Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman, Kuwait).
If you would like to place an order for a friend/family member located in a different country to you, please contact us to organise a custom order.
Orders
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All orders are dispatched from a fulfilment centre based within the UAE, you’ll receive a tracking number once your order has shipped. Please allow 24 hours for your tracking number to update. You can track your package on our contact page, please use the email/phone number you placed your order with.
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Cancellations or changes to your order are unable to be made once your order has been placed.
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Once an order has been placed, it begins processing for dispatch. After this point we are unable to make any changes.
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If there has been an error in your order, please contact us and we will send out the correct item you ordered along with instructions for returning any incorrect items.
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Due to the handmade nature of Shakti products, this can happen on occasion. Luckily it’s an easy fix! If you still have both the spike and back disc, you can reattach them by simply pushing the smaller disc up through the fabric, and then clamping down the spike on top so both parts connect (something heavy like a book will work well). You should hear a “click” when the spike is attached to the disc.
If the spike/clip has been lost, start by checking inside your Shakti Mat. You might find the clip hiding in there! Otherwise, let us know if you need a hand and we will get a replacement in the mail for you as soon as possible. Please contact us with your order number and we can arrange this.
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Unless stated otherwise, products will come back in stock. Timelines vary because every product is handmade. Signing up for back in stock notifications on the product page is the best way to know when a product becomes available again.
Product Use
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Unfortunately, we do not recommend the use of the Shakti Mat to women who are pregnant, especially in the first trimester. The Shakti Mat uses acupressure, which has been used to induce labour in some cases. Always consult your medical professional before using the Mat. However, the Shakti Mat is a wonderful and completely safe tool in the postpartum stage. New mums may suffer from back tension, tightness in the hips, sleeplessness, stress and more, all of which the Shakti Mat can provide great natural support.
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Do not use the Shakti Mat or Accessories if you have any of the following conditions:
Coagulation issues, or if you are using anticoagulant medication. The Shakti Mat can affect circulation and therefore can not be recommended to people with circulation and/or clotting issues.
Epilepsy. The Shakti Mat is covered in thousands of sharp spikes, making it hazardous if a person were to have a seizure while using the Mat.
Significant skin damage in the area of use, including pronounced skin inflammation, or large papilloma's. Skin conditions are at risk of being aggravated by the Shakti Mat.
Neuropathy that has resulted in loss of sensation or sensory impairment, as this may impact a users ability to feel the sharpness of the spikes.
Pregnancy acupressure points are used in some cases to induce labour (see previous FAQ) naturally.
Cardiovascular conditions. The Shakti Mat can affect circulation and therefore can not be recommended to people with cardiovascular conditions.
Thrombophlebitis. See coagulation issues, and cardiovascular conditions above.
Fever or other acute illness. If you have any other medical condition or disease, we recommend you consult your physician before using this product. If you are, or are planning to become pregnant, consult your physician prior to use.
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It is also okay to use a Shakti Mat with tattoos except during the healing period. Do not use the Shakti Mat on or near a tattooed area if you are experiencing any irritation, inflammation, or sensitivity. Always consult a professional prior to use if you are unsure.
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Yes, children can use a Shakti Mat. We suggest children are thoroughly supervised though due to the sharpness of the spikes.
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What you feel on the Shakti Mat is determined by your individual skin sensitivity, not your body weight.
It's important to note that the Shakti Mat doesn't need to be touching every area of your back to provide be effective. If you want more tips for targeting your trouble areas effectively, don't hesitate to email our support team, or reach out to fellow acupressure mat users on the Acupressure Facebook Group.
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Organic Cotton
The outer cover of every Shakti Mat is made from organic cotton, coloured by non-toxic dyes. Cotton and dyes are certified by the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS). GOTS certification is recognised as the world's leading standard for processing organic textiles.
Spikes
Each Shakti Mat is hand-clipped with recyclable ABS plastic. Known for its exceptional durability and impact resistance, ABS plastic allows the spikes to retain their sharpness, strength, and effectiveness even after years of regular use.
Blissfoam™
Premium Shakti Mats and Pillows feature 100% plant-based Blissfoam™. This unique fill is made entirely from sustainably grown trees and it’s encased in organic cotton sleeves for natural rubber sensitivities. In Acupressure Mats, it’s a single piece of organic foam. In the Premium Pillow it’s shredded and recycled. Both mould to your body and set the standard for tension release. Soft enough to sink into, yet firm enough to push back.
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The name Shakti carries deep meaning, thoughtfully reflecting the philosophy and intention behind the business, its people, and the Mat itself. In Vedic culture, physical health is viewed as inseparable from mental well-being, true vitality arises only when both are in harmony.
In Hinduism, Shakti is the Goddess of Primal Energy. The concept of Shakti refers to sacred force or empowerment, and is the representation of divine feminine power and energy. It manifests outwardly as physical nature and inwardly as spirit or energy. Shakti is seen as the life force energy behind your breath, your heartbeat, and your muscles.
The Shakti Mat was created and designed with the intention to ignite these qualities of Shakti energy and offer users a way in which to harness this strength (mentally) in order to reestablish well-being (physically). Through regular use of the Shakti Mat, users can learn to become more present, resilient and aware of physical disharmony and imbalance in the body, prompting steps towards restoring the body as a whole.
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The symbols on Shakti Mats and Pillows all stem from what is called Sacred Geometry. Sacred Geometry exists all around us, and especially in nature. It represents harmony, balance, connection, healing, and the natural patterns of growth or movement.
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Blissfoam™ is pre-washed three times and sewn inside an organic cotton slip before being inserted into the organic cotton outer of a Shakti Mat or Pillow. Layering it this way reduces airborne allergens and prevents direct contact between skin and latex. We can’t confirm individual circumstances as all allergies are different. If you’re unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor or a healthcare professional.
Warranty
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All Shakti products are backed by a 5-year Warranty that covers defects in craftsmanship and materials. We use materials such as GOTS certified organic cotton and ABS medical-grade plastic, selected for their quality, longevity and strength to ensure you’re Shakti-ing for years to come. Should you face any product issues beyond wear and tear, please contact us, with photos and details of the defect, and we’ll guide you on submitting a warranty claim.
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Normal wear and tear.
Care Instructions
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Follow these 5 simple steps:
1. Remove the inner foam from your Mat or Pillow
2. Hand wash the Shakti cover in warm soapy water
3. Scrub any dirty spikes with a scrubbing brush or old toothbrush
4. Rinse and hang to dry in the shade
5. Re-insert the foam and you're good to go!
Tips:
- As tempting as it may be, avoid placing your Shakti Mat or Pillow in the washing machine.
- Instead, gently hand-wash using a mild or eco-friendly laundry detergent or powder. For tougher stains, apply a stain-removal soap directly to the affected area and rinse carefully.
- Avoid soaking your Mat or Pillow, and do not dry them in direct sunlight. Shakti products are made from organically certified cotton and dyes, and drying them in the shade will help preserve their colour and quality.
- When reinserting single-piece Blissfoam™ inners (found in Classic Mats and Pillows), turn the cover inside out, align the seam with the foam insert, and gently fold the cover back over the foam.
- The Shakti Headband can be cleaned using the same hand-wash method, with no foam removal required.
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The Weighted Wrap should be hand washed only. Spot clean with a damp cloth and liquid laundry detergent, or gently hand wash in warm, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and hang to dry in the shade.
Avoid: wringing, tumble drying, ironing, and the use of harsh detergents or bleach.