Tried it on, and within five minutes I was floating somewhere between “hmm, this is odd” and “please never take this off my head.” It’s like a tiny team of acupressure pixies are politely reminding your brain to chill. Also, not gonna lie—it gives off strong zen-master-in-a-Japanese-garden vibes. I feel like I should be brewing tea or writing haiku while my nervous system resets. Highly recommend for unexpected calm and headband-based wisdom.

I bought a Shakti Mat 6 years ago and from the very first “ouch!!” through to now, when I can do my yoga on it, it’s been one of my most favourite purchases ever. Since then I've also bought the neck pillow and foot pad, which I have under my desk. Both also awesome. Recently I decided to get the headband, and had the bright idea of buying 10 and giving them to family members for Christmas. We're all trying them out, and as I get used to mine I’m loving it more and more. I also got a ring and it’s been invaluable for pain relief as well as general relaxation for my hands. The mat is still my all-time favourite but having the others means I can use it solely as a mat and not need to stand on it or roll it up under my neck. Although there are cheaper acupressure products, I’ve stayed with Shakti because of their outstanding quality and ethics, including great customer service. And I’m always recommending them to friends. I feel the intention of care, for those who make them and those who buy them, and this makes my Shakti experiences all the more sweet.

I bought the shakti headband. I find the shape uncomfortable. If I want the headband lower, like on top of my eyebrows (where I hold a lot if tension n), then the fabric of the band covers my eyes. Too much fabric around the spikes, so I gave to fold the fabric if I want the spikes to be on my eyebrows, without the fabric covering my eyes. It brings some relaxation after removing, but not a relief for headaches and real muscle tension.