Massagers

There's nothing like the soothing effects of getting a massage, but forking out $100 an hour can become costly if you like to indulge in this luxurious body treatment. Let's do the math: if you got a one-hour massage, twice a week for a year, the bill would come to $9600 or more depending on where you live. Some places don't even have a great masseuse.

Here's a great solution to the predicament: buy a massager  or a home massage chair  and you can reap the benefits of a massage without spending an arm and a leg. For the same effects of a calming, therapeutic massage you can invest in a top of the line massage chair and get years of quality massages for a fraction of the price. Don't get discouraged though if you haven't got the space or the money for a massage chair. There are some other options that give great results and they shouldn't be overlooked. This guide will tell you all about them.

Handheld Massagers

Wrap Around  Bow-like design is held with two hands so that the vibrating balls rest against the shoulders or back. These are especially useful for use on the lower back, but they are not really effective on other body parts besides the back. Slightly large and awkward design makes manipulating somewhat hard. The cord gets in the way and it doesn't allow you to lie down while massaging. Some come with replaceable heating balls. The majority thump rather than knead.	Double-ball Vibrating Massager  These are lightweight and small so they can be used on most body parts, especially the upper torso and thighs. They come in one and two-ball styles that are usually interchangeable with heating balls. Easy to maneuver but it still doesn't allow you to massage the back lying down. Features are limited and most often they are only able to thump, not knead. Moderately priced.	Manual Wooden Massager  Small and portable, you can bring them to the office or gym without breaking your back. They feel really nice despite the simplicity of the design. Different models can be used for the whole body. Plastic and waterproof animal shapes are great for use in jacuzzis. Less than $10 a piece.	Head Massagers  Really amazing tingling massage for your scalp. This is a unique sensation that you can't get from any other massage device. They are inexpensive, portable and easy to bend so you can adjust its firmness and intensity for different sized heads. These are a one-trick pony so they won't do much good for anything but massaging the scalp.

Small Stationary Massagers

Foot Massager  Helps tired, aching feet. Some come with a heat option. Foot baths are like water basins with massage jets. They can be used anywhere that has an outlet. Prices vary from model to model, but most cost $50 or less.	Shiatsu Massager  Personal favorite: unsurpassed Shiatsu kneading power works wonders on the neck and shoulders. You must lie down to use it which actually helps you relax while you get a massage.	Remote Controlled  Good for the neck and shoulders and it doesn't require a lot of maneuvering to get a comfortable massage. You can sit anywhere with it because it's lightweight and works off batteries. Easy to use and moderately priced.

External Links

• Elite Massage: This is an interactive site where you can compare different massage chair models.
• Massageunlimited.com: A site with a large selection of massage chairs.
• Leather recliners: Some nice leather chairs to look at.
• Loungers: Full line of Panasonic massagers.
• Banner Massage Therapy: A site with a large selection of massage therapy products.