A Chair Massage Like No Other

I often have problems with a creaky lower back, so yesterday I popped into a shop that specializes in products for back support.  When I walked into the small store I was amazed at their large selection of merchandise big and small--office furniture, chairs, bedding, and a nice selection of small healthy living accessories

I explained to the friendly salesperson what I was looking for, and he gave me a couple of suggestions. They were interesting, but not in my price range.  As I was turning to leave, he asked if I had time to experience what he called "the world's best massage chair".  I didn't have anywhere to be, so I agreed.  I expected something like a masseuse would use to give a chair massage, so I was intrigued when he lead me over to a large, hulking piece that looked more like a machine than a chair.

After I took my shoes off and sat down the salesperson showed me the slots for my arms and legs, and made sure my feet were snugly nestled in the foot holders.  He adjusted the headrest, pushed the start button, and told me to enjoy.

First I heard a series of beeps, which I later learned was the chair's sensors scanning my body to find out where the pressure points were.  Then for the next fifteen minutes I was treated to various combinations of a roller moving up and down my spine, something that felt like fingers poking at my back, airbags that inflated and deflated around my upper and lower arms, thighs, and legs,  a nice manipulation of the soles of my feet from a small roller, and a comfortable neck stretch from the headrest.

 When the session was over I felt completely refreshed.  I asked the salesperson just how much the slice of heaven was, and wasn't surprised to learn that I'd drop almost $10,000 if I decided to bring one into my home.  That's not going to happen, so on my way out of the store I joking asked the salesperson if I could  come back next week for another demonstration.

Five years ago today: Have Paint, Will Redecorate