Surge of Chi Exerciser | Chi Machines

How the Surge of Chi Exerciser works

The Surge of Chi® Exerciser is placed on a firm flat surface, normally the floor. Use of a mat or rug, such as a yoga mat or comfortable rug, is recommended, though a clean carpeted surface is fine too. The user simply lies down and places their ankles on the cushioned footrest, which swings from side to side after the motor is turned on. This rhythmic motion creates a 'figure of eight' movement up and down the spine. The sideways movement of the footrest has a slightly elliptical trajectory, which provides a gentle twisting of the hips and spine.

This wave-like movement up and down the back replicates the spinal movement of fish and other animals as they move around.

The gentle massage of internal organs, musculature and body tissue provided by this motion has many effects including deeper respiration, stimulation of the nervous system, and improved circulation of the blood and lymph systems.

The Surge of Chi Exerciser also stimulates the flow of 'chi' throughout the body, and most people feel this as a tingling sensation in their limbs and torso, coupled with a heightened sense of well being, from their very first use of the Exerciser.

This wonderful experience usually happens from their very first use of the Exerciser. 'Chi' is the Chinese word for 'life force energy', also called 'ki' in Japanese. Traditional Chinese Medicine aims to ensure the smooth flow of chi through the body's meridians. This approach is based on the belief that illness is generally caused by an imbalance of chi - t'ai chi, for example, is practised daily by millions of Chinese - more as a form of preventive healthcare than as a martial art.

Nature intended that regular exercise of the body - as we go about our daily routines - would stimulate the nervous system and all bodily functions so that we could stay in good health.

We need to gain a certain amount of exercise 'credits' every day if we are to maintain a positive balance in the health bank account. Many forms of vigorous exercise provide substantial credits - but can also involve some 'debits' from the extra oxygen consumption, excessive stresses and strain, and the general wear and tear of the body that all athletes and sportsmen have to endure.

What is 'passive exercise'?

Exercise comes in many forms. These days we know it is important for health. Doctors and health professionals are always encouraging us to get a varied range of exercise on a regular basis, as modern lifestyles have reduced the amount of exercise that many of us get.

The Surge of Chi Exerciser provides a direct form of exercise that we call 'passive' because the user is lying down in a completely relaxed state. They are not expending any energy in giving the body the exercise it needs. The exercise happens in a very balanced way, as the body responds naturally to the movement of the feet from side to side. More importantly, the main impact of this exercise is the rhythmic flexing of the back, shoulders and neck. Most adults in today's society rarely enjoy this type of exercise in their everyday lifestyles, even if they manage a workout in the gym, go jogging or play sports.

Some might think that the old maxim 'no pain, no gain' should apply when it comes to getting exercise. But the body's need for exercise goes beyond philosophy. Nature based its health maintenance design on the stimulation that happens when all the different parts of the body are exercised. The exercise benefits of the Surge of Chi Exerciser are focused on the torso, rather then the arms and legs - flexing of the torso or trunk of the body stimulates all the major organs and nervous system.
Of course we do not claim that use of the Surge of Chi Exerciser can simulate all the different types of exercise that can be enjoyed in sports or the gym. Nor can it substitute for the more targeted stimulation given by professional therapists. There are many well-qualified practitioners who are able to assess your health condition comprehensively, and to work on areas that need special attention. We strongly recommend that you seek advice from your Doctor or therapist if you are suffering from a recurring or chronic physical condition.

Why is 'passive exercise' valuable?

Within the animal kingdom, only humans stand and walk erect. This means that gravity constantly works against us. As adults we tend to end up with habits of posture and use that lack dynamism and exert pressure on our spine, hips and neck.

It takes energy and consciousness to use the body well. Many of us unconsciously surrender to gravity - and to a state of physical lethargy - as almost all of our energy is directed to the mental tasks we are burdened with. In this state our backs, shoulders and necks can lose their flexibility, and tension accumulates here. Significantly, the average adult in modern society experiences a minimal amount of sideways motion in the spine.

The Surge of Chi Exerciser provides a pure and direct form of exercise for the important spinal area. Most importantly, this exercise is all gain, as it is free from stress. This pleasurable type of exercise actually increases the respiration rate, giving you a consistently deeper breathing pattern as your body responds to the exerciser's movement, without any simultaneous consumption of oxygen.