Back in 2007, my colleague Yusuf Omar introduced me to this neat device. It’s called a Chi machine. The first time I tried it, I was hooked! I purchased a unit the very next day and I’ve been using it regularly ever since. This is one item that if it breaks today, I will replace it tomorrow without hesitation.

Why is it so special?

I consider it my “nap switch” because it puts me to sleep quickly and only for a short period of time.

Napping is a potent restoration method and one of the most powerful recovery boosters available. It’s best to take a nap between 1-3 p.m. on non-training days (right around the time that you crash after lunch) or directly after your post-workout shake on training days.

A Chi machine is great to use for napping. It’s a portable electrical device with padded ankle supports that moves side to side. You just lie down on the floor, rest your ankles on the pads, use the remote to control the speed, and the machine will do the rest.

The Chi machine simulates the motion of a swimming fish, which creates a ripple effect throughout the body. This does all kinds of neat things to help your muscles recover, most notably by increasing circulation and promoting lymphatic drainage, but it doesn’t end there… the machine simulates another action – one that is deep-rooted – that is, your mother rocking you as a baby! It’s this effect that relaxes you and puts you to sleep in no time.

Try it. Just shut the lights off and lie on the floor with your ankles resting on the machine. (Be aware that the machine has a tendency to hyperextend the knees. If you feel any discomfort behind your knees, rest your legs on a pillow or two and it should solve the problem.) Set the dial to a low speed and if all goes well, you should be asleep within a few minutes. The machine automatically shuts off after 15 minutes, which is just the right dose. You’ll feel refreshed and ready to conquer the world afterward.

Click HERE if you’re interested in picking one up. You won’t regret it!