What is Zero Gravity?

The concept of Zero Gravity was born out of the NASA space program to deal with the problems of large compressional forces felt by Astronauts as they launch into space. Astronauts were plagued with fatigue during the launch process because of Gravities natural compression on the human body most notably the human spine. After extensive research NASA has perfected the “Neutral Body Posture” position which is ideal for evenly distributing pressures on the human body (whole body instead of just the spine) and subsequently putting the human body into a heightened state of relaxation. This breakthrough in combating gravitation forces has been applied to many facets of wellness therapy. Shop all Zero Gravity Massage Chairs.

Technology

The “Neutral Body Posture” is the optimal posture for someone looking to become fully relaxed. The human body takes a reclined position elevating the feet above the heart and creating a torso-to-leg angle of roughly 128 degrees with a variation of +/- 7 degrees. This position has also been referred to as the “Anti-Gravity” and “90/90” position. After extensive research was conducted by the Research Center for Sports and Healthcare Technology at Ritsumeikan University the “Natural Body Posture” position has been proven to be the ideal posture for physical relaxation.

Benefits

Zero Gravity Massage Chairs have taken full advantage of the relief and relaxation made possible when the body assumes the Natural Body Posture position. Through these advances it has been discovered that many other relaxation and health benefits occur during this posturing. The human body experiences less pressure on the spine because of the distribution of forces across the body, reduced muscle tension because of the natural relaxation effect of the posture, less pressure on the heart as it has to work less to pump blood through the body, increased lung capacity because of the expanded lungs in the neutral position, and increased circulation and blood oxygen levels because of the ripple effect of greater lung capacity and decreased stress on the heart. All of this is made possible by raising the legs above the heart and assuming a zero gravity position taking major pressure of off the spine.

These Four Concepts in Greater Detail

The human spine is designed in an 'S' shaped curve and divided into 3 regions i.e. neck, upper back, and lower back. When there isn't pressure on the muscles of the spine at any curve, we achieve a natural position of the spine. In a Zero Gravity Lounger, the torso and thigh's are in perfect alignment, the feet relaxed above the level of the heart and head, and the hips and the ankles create a 90 degree angle between them. This results in a neutral position of the spine, where gravitation forces do not affect it. Its design supports the natural curves of the spine along with the upper and lower back. Thus the neck and back are completely free of muscle tension and pain.

In a variety of relaxation positions we unknowingly put pressure on our lower back (think sitting at a desk all day, then sitting on a couch at home.) When a person enters into a Zero Gravity position the muscles are released from this pressure and oxygen rich blood can relax the muscles completely.

When an open angle is created between the torso and thighs, more space is created for the diaphragm to expand. This results in an increase in of oxygen from the air and expanded lungs.

In a zero gravity position the blood flow from the heart actually changes. When a human is in an upright position it requires the heart to work against the force of gravity to pump blood up from legs. In a reclined position the situation is obviously reversed. Blood flows into the heart with the support of gravity as opposed to against it, essentially accommodating the heart's natural function.