Tips on Sports Massage – Pre-Event Massage

With OSIM Singapore International Triathlon 2010 coming up, engaging sports massage (pre-event massage) could greatly aid in your training process.

The aim of pre-event massage is to:
– Help the body to respond well to the demands brought about by increased activity
– Facilitate maximum performance

When muscles are working, an increased supply of oxygen and nutrients are required as muscular activity requires a great deal of energy. It is essential that warm-up and stretching exercises are performed prior to any form of exercise as the body systems are slowly brought up to a peak level and therefore maximum performance can be obtained. Massage will help to obtain these effects, but under no account must it be used as a substitute for exercise. Massage improves the flexibility and extensibility of muscles, increases blood and nutrient supply to the muscles and help to maintain and increase joint mobility.

Sources from Adele O’Keefe – The Official Guide to Body Massage

OSIM uSqueez Warm

Using Warm Therapy, uSqueez Warm increases the flow of blood, oxygen and nutrients to keep your legs flexible and energised during your triathlon training. With Squeezing and Kneading functions, it is able to stimulate vital acupressure points for enhanced well-being.

OSIM uRobic

This innovative exerciser is designed to enhance your cardiovasular fitness by strengthening your heart and lungs. It also trains core muscles to enable a more flexible body which reduces the risk of injuries.

OSIM uKimono

Combining OSIM’s signature Twin Power Osimotion and Double Kneading in the patent-pending Duo+ Techonology, uKimono is able to tone and tighten muscles in 3 different areas: tummy, butt and thighs!

Kindly visit www.OSIM.com for more details on uSqueez Warm, uRobic and uKimono!

It doesn’t have to hurt

I had my first foot massage at the ripe age of 33 and fell in love with it. I guess it pretty much helped that the person providing the service was my charming other half.

Something about the combination of sensual touches, sweet smelling lotion and the knowledge that I could totally relax in his safe strong, hands proved lethal.

Yes, to the extent of waking up an hour later and missing out on the ‘shiokness’ of the mellowing session.

I practically slept like a puppy …

This was nothing like the sessions my folks and their friends used to go through at the ubiquitous Chinese foot reflexology parlors. Theirs was often coupled with screams and contorted faces that clearly spelt physical agony.

“It has to hurt to be of any use,” one of the older ladies used to say. “If it’s very painful, that means you have many problems to ‘repair’ in your system!” How many of them put up with this so-called logic, I seriously don’t know and definitely not comprehend. Why does something have to hurt so badly to derive some good in this instance?

When I did my own bit of research online, I came across this statement.

”According to many podiatrists, the distress resulting from unattractive feet or toenails can be extreme. Even married patients may try to keep feet hidden from their spouse – sleeping and even having sex with socks on. For individuals who are too embarrassed to enjoy the benefits of a sensual foot massage, it’s important to address the underlying issue – foot appearance.”

That’s such a shame, really… more often than not; I believe that their partners do care more about their physical and mental pleasure than unpleasant –looking feet.  Besides, with a little more care and arsenal of beauty tools to keep their feet looking better, they’ll get to enjoy the beauty of a bonding session through sole massages.

And if all else fails, there’s always this you can fall back on.

OSIM often surprises us with its innovative products and uSqueez Warm is no exception. To tell the truth, I wasn’t too expectant initially. I really didn’t think that by slipping my feet into the slots and activating a few simple buttons could allow it to reach vital pressure points.

But it did! I can imagine this to be the next BFF of heel-loving ladies – pure godsend in the absence of the better half.

The best feature for me has got to be the heat therapy. With my feet slathered with thick Body shop Peppermint foot lotion and nicely wrapped in cotton socks, I was ready for a foot spa.

One session later, my feet actually felt lighter and softer! Call me crazy or what, my next attempt was using my hands ; dried ‘sticks’ tired out from typing away on the keyboard every day.

Know what works really well with this? This is a personal tip from an ex-aircrew colleague which somehow got proliferated due to its wondrous results:

*Mix lemon juice with coarse sugar and scrub away gently at your hands and feet.

*Rinse off with tepid water and soak in warm milk (if you’re in a luxurious mood) for 5 minutes.

*Smother with your favourite hand cream, don socks and get Warm with uSqueez

Enjoy!

Let’s Gather Our Resources and Share

Christmas season is a time for giving and sharing.

As mentioned in my last article, time spent with loved ones is probably the most treasured gift this season.

Many of us are blessed to have our loved ones (though we may often take for granted) sharing the love and joy this festive season. Be it spouses, children, partners, soul mates, parents, siblings, or even friends. But, please stop and look outside our circle, there are many who are not as fortunate.

Yes. I’m referring to the abandoned kids in children’s’ home, the orphans, the unmarried old folks, and the old folks that unfilial children conveniently housed in homes without visiting them for years.

Many years back, I used to volunteer and spend once a week at a few blocks of the rented 1-room HDB flats in Jalan Bukit Merah. We collected old clothes, newspapers, and other items that can be recycled and converted to cash. With the extra funds, we then proceeded to buy the daily necessities for the old folks. Their wish list could be as simple as a rice cooker, a cheap fan, or even an extra pack of rice.

Apart from providing them with their needs, we gather the old people (who are mostly living alone) at the void deck and engage in activities and interaction. We chat and sing with them. Sadly, through talking to them, you’ll get to realize that they tend to just live every day with nothing to look forward to, except for the days they would rest forever. We want to let them know that we care, and that they are not all alone in this world. We want them to know that there is joy during their golden years.

*Let us do what we can to put a smile on their faces*

Most people will be fussing over decorations of the Christmas tree in their homes, planning and making sure that gourmet food is enough for everyone invited, and crossing out the gifts that are placed under the tree, taking care not to miss anyone out.

But to these less privileged groups of people, their priorities may be so different. Abandoned kids and orphans may wish for cheap toys they never had before, or even just a tender loving kiss and a hug from loved ones. But, the latter may just be a wish that will never ever come true…

Couple of months back, I saw a documentary covering the story of what some kind souls and volunteers do for the old folks in Singapore. Nowadays, they convert the void deck into a place to socialize, where old folks mingle and partake in activities together. Some of them play Mahjong, do light exercises, chat, and eat there, spending the entire afternoon there with good company. At least they don’t feel lonely.

*Do you think it will be a good idea to donate the uSqueez Warm to the centre?*

I remember seeing some old folks having to massage their feet. And usually at this time of the year, the temperature goes down and can get quite cold for them. The uSqueez Warm should come in useful as the massages provide blood circulation, coupled with heat therapy. And by donating it to the centre and not only individuals, all of them will benefit from it.

It was one cold sleepy night while I was sitting in my windy living room. I felt the immediate need to get a squeeze and some warmth for my cold feet. It better be good, I thought. I had a hard time fitting the big box into my tiny car and carrying up to my place alone!

Wow, I never regretted the solo transportation process. Thanks to OSIM, I fell asleep on my couch and woke up 2 hours later with my feet still in the uSqueez Warm. Sorry Squeezy (my iSqueez), please make way for two weeks.

Hey people, back to the discussion about donating a uSqueez Warm.

Anyone of you would like to do something meaningful this Christmas? Shall we deliver a set of uSqueez Warm to the centre as a gift for the pioneers of our beautiful country?

If I could gather 15 people, it will just be slightly below $50 per person. It’s been a while since I last did anything to make their day. What about you?

Drop me a comment if you are keen on this ok? It’s never too late.

Looking forward to your interest flowing in…

OSIM Father’s Day Lunch

In appreciation of our customers’ continuous support, we invited 5 lucky customers to a Father’s Day lunch at Raffles Hotel with their families.

The guests were invited to enjoy our latest products while waiting for their food.

A 7-course meal was served shortly.

We all gathered around to take a family picture after the lunch.

It was a heartwarming affair –  everyone enjoyed the gathering immensely. Happy Father’s Day to all!

uSqueez Warm Commercial Behind-the-Scenes

(An OSIM exclusive)

Have you caught Jeanette’s comedic talent in action in the OSIM uSqueez Warm latest TV commercial? I captured some interesting behind-the-scenes shots during the commercial shoot. Watch how this amusing TVC was produced.

Early in the morning, Jeanette reports to the studio with the rest of the crew.

Jeanette gets dressed in the makeup room

Jeanette pretties up for the shoot

Jeanette is tickled by the antics of the production crew

To create the exaggerated effects onscreen, where the feet appears larger than life, we needed to film Jeanette separately from the feet.

A pair of feet was drawn to gauge its position onscreen

Here's the real pair of feet!

Our leg model - she has the most animated pair of feet!

The feet go behind a green screen

Here's a closer look

"Tickle, tickle, tickle" - Warm up for the feet

Jeanette reviews her performance intently

"I think I did a good job :)"

The day of filming happens to be the birthday of one the crew. We took a break from the shoot to have some cake. Star of the team, Jeanette Aw brings out the birthday surprise.

Happy birthday!

Birthday boy makes a wish

Time for a break

The commercial also requires a hand model to demonstrate the life-like kneading sensation when using the uSqueez Warm.

Our hand model practises her moves

Legs up!

"Streeetch!"

That's all folks!

It took us 15 hours to complete the filming. And here’s the final product:

Jeanette and Mum

(An OSIM exclusive)

We caught up with Jeanette amidst her busy schedule. She shares with us on her relationship with her Mum.

What role does your Mum play in your life? How important is she to you? 

My family is very important to me, especially my parents. My mother has been there for me, giving me support in everything that I do and her love for me is unconditional. Family will always be the number one priority to me.

 

What does your Mum do for you that make you feel most ‘warm’ and fuzzy inside?

Whatever my mummy does for me will always make me feel warm. She messages me every evening to ask how my day has been, waits up for me, cooks soup and birdsnest for me whenever she feels I’ve been working too hard or have irregular and long hours. And even though there may not be any special occasions, she still buys me gifts when she thinks of me.

 

Has your Mum tried uSqueez Warm? Which is her favourite functions?

Yes, my mummy has tried the uSqueez Warm. She likes the Warm Air and Turbo Vibration Massage. The warmth helps to let her relax, and the vibration massage applies the kind of pressure that she is comfortable with. She also likes the feel of her relaxed feet after the massage.

 

Which features of uSqueez Warm is most similar to your Mum’s unique brand of TLC?    

Warm Air Technology is like the warmth that I get from mummy’s love, care and concern. Wrap-Around Power Squeeze is like the protection that mum gives me with her love.

 

Reasons you will recommend uSqueez Warm to be an ideal Mothers Day Gift? 

Mothers deserve to be pampered and showered with love. For all that they have done for us, this is a little something that we can do for them – A gift that provides them with massages and benefits for their total well being. It is a healthy gift and also something that they can use constantly.

Here’s a first look at the commercial Jeanette did for OSIM, specially for Mother’s Day!

Caring For Your Feet

Your feet are the most neglected part of your body. You force them into tight shoes, pound them on the road and neglect to care for them properly.

Caring for your feet helps to reduce or eliminate pain and deformities such as bunions, corns and calluses.

Here are some tips:

• Wash your feet daily in warm water. Rinse off all soap and dry thoroughly, especially between toes.
• Trim nails straight across, and not too short. Don’t cut or dig at corners.
• Wear clean socks or stockings daily. Avoid too tight socks or stockings.
• Wear shoes that fit and are comfortable.
• Choose shoes made of leather or canvas – not synthetics.
• Aviod wearing high heeled shoes that exceed 2 inches for too long a time.
• Use foot powder and switch shoes from day to day if your feet sweat more than others.
• Walk! This is the best form of exercise for your feet.
• Pamper your feet by giving them a soothing foot massage on the uSqueez Warm. This not only relaxes you but helps to improve blood circulation to your feet.

(Image courtesy of http://gracemagazine.wordpress.com/; Health information is provided by the Health Promotion Consultancy, National Healthcare Group.)

Jeanette’s uSqueez Warm Tips

Jeanette’s uSqueez Warm Tip #2

Did you know that shoes affect your total well-being?

Too tight or too high shoes may cut off blood circulation, leading to swelling, aching and overall discomfort. At the end of each day, kick off those heels and relax with uSqueez Warm Leg Massager!

Jeanette’s uSqueez Warm Tip #3

Did you know that your legs and feet support 3-4 times your body weight?

With all the weight they carry, it’s common to feel fatigue at the end of the day. Give your legs and feet some warmth and care with uSqueez Warm Leg Massager!

Most Frequently Asked Questions about uSqueez Warm

   OSIM uSqueez Warm 

Please see below for a list of our most frequently asked questions.

Question #1: What is uSqueez Warm?

It is a stylishly designed leg massager which combines innovative Warm Air Technology to soothe tired muscles and improve blood circulation; Foot rollers to target various health-reflexology points and Squeezing Massagers that totally relax your calves, ankles and feet all at the same time.

Question #2: How can the Warm Air Technology be beneficial?

Warm Air Technology helps to dilate the blood vessels and increases the flow of blood, oxygen and nutrients from the body to the legs to keep them healthy and energized. It also flushes out lactic acid and re-energizes your legs to their natural state.

  Question #3: What is roller reflexology massage?

uSqueez Warm has rollers which help to replicate the push and release technique used by professional reflexologists to activate vital reflex points on your soles improving your overall health.

 Question #4: What do you mean by Wrap-Around Power Squeeze?

uSqueez Warm delivers a simultaneous massage to your calves, ankles and feet, tripling the pleasure for maximum effectiveness.
Also, it has a full coverage kneading disc which offers an extra feel-good squeeze to alleviate muscle aches and strain, providing instant relief to your tired legs.

  Question #5: Does uSqueez Warm help to stimulate vital acupressure points?

Yes. The uSqueez Warm has turbo vibration massage which stimulates vital acupressure points to improve blood circulation. It penetrates deep into the muscle layers to ease tension and fatigue.

Question #6: What do the pressure nodes serve to achieve?

The pressure nodes serve to stimulate the reflex points on the soles of your feet. When in vibration mode, these nodes will serve to promote blood circulation, so as to enhance your general well-being.

Question #7: What are the benefits I can get from uSqueez Warm?

For health benefits of uSqueez Warm, click here.   

Question #8: When is the perfect time I can use the uSqueez Warm or best usage recommended?

• After a long hard day at work
• Long Hours of shopping
• Wearing heels all day
• Prolonged standing
• Prolonged sitting in air-conditioned rooms
• Pre and post exercise
• Extended periods of driving
• Cold, clammy feet

Question #9: How often should I use the uSqueez Warm?

We recommend it twice a day, in the morning before you start your day and at night before you go to bed. Some will just use more often like thrice a day just because they enjoy it that much. We also recommend drinking a glass of water after massage to help flush out the lactic acid from your body.
However, please avoid massage 1 hour before and after meal.

Question #10: How is uSqueez Warm different from other foot massagers?

uSqueez Warm is very innovative and has Warm Air Technology to soothe tired muscles and improve blood circulation, Foot Rollers to target various health-reflexology points and Squeezing Massagers that totally relax your calves, ankles and feet, all at the same time.

 Question #11: Is there a timer for all massage modes?

Yes. There is an automatic shut off after 15 minutes of usage for all massage modes. This is the recommended duration for usage.

Question #12: How long should I use the heat function of the uSqueez Warm?

The suggested usage duration is 15 minutes.

Question #13: Is it possible to rotate the uSqueez Warm in a desired position?

Yes. The uSqueez Warm is designed to provide multiple angles of personalized massage for multiple benefits. There is the upright position at 90º, recline at 120º, and fully flat at 180º and you can also make it as your legrest (back of the uSqueez Warm flipped over).

Question #14: How many massage programs are there to suit my different needs?

3 specialized lifestyle programmes to suit your different needs. There is Recharge, Revitalize and Relax.

Question #15: How many colours does uSqueez Warm come in?

The uSqueez Warm comes in two colours, Red and Beige.

Question #16: What are the specifications of the uSqueez Warm?

Voltage Available & Power Consumption

220-50Hz(210W)
110-60Hz (210W)

Dimension
Height = 42 cm
Width = 42 cm
Length = 59 cm

Weight
Gross= 24 kg
Net= 20.5 kg

Question #17: What is the operating temperature range for the uSqueez Warm?

The operating temperature range for the uSqueez Warm is from 5 to 40 degree Celsius

Question #18: What is the storage temperature for the uSqueez Warm?

The storage temperature for the uSqueez Warm is from -10 to 55 degree Celsius.

Question #19: It’s my first time to get a foot massage. Is it normal to feel a little discomfort when I’m using the uSqueez Warm?

Similar to a visit to the foot masseuse for the first time, you may feel slight discomfort when using a foot massager for the first time.

Question #20: At times my legs feel itchy during and after the massage. Is this normal?

Yes. It is normal that you feel some itchiness on your soles and lower legs. This means that the vibration is enhancing blood circulation in your lower legs, which is good for you.

Question #21: Is it possible to remove or wash the cover where you put your feet in the uSqueez Warm?

Yes. Fabric cover (with zip) is detachable. Simply unzip them to detach from the massager.

Question #22: How to clean the uSqueez Warm properly?

Before cleaning, ensure that the main switch is turned off and the power plug is disconnected from the electrical outlet. Then wipe off dust and dirt from the uSqueez Warm after each use. Please note not to use abrasive cleaning agents line benzene or thinner to clean the uSqueez Warm. Moreover, please keep in mind to use only dry cloth to clean the Control Panel. Damp cloth to clean the control panel of the uSqueez Warm may result in malfunction.

Question #23: If there is a power outage in our building and I’m still using the uSqueez Warm, what should I do?

There is a manual mechanism which allows you to end the squeezing massage.

 

General Questions:

What is Foot massage?

Massage is the treatment and practice of manipulation of the soft body tissues with physical, functional, i.e. mechanical, medical/therapeutic.

What is Foot Reflexology?
 
*It is called “pressure therapy” and involves applying focused pressure to certain known reflex points located in the foot to cure or prevent disease. Foot reflexology is based on the premise that our nerve zones or reflex points go from the bottom of our feet to the top of our head, encompassing all vital organs on the way.

Is foot massage suitable for everyone?

Practically everyone can benefit from a foot massage. Relief for sore and aching muscles and is also beneficial just for maintaining health and well being. Whilst many people use foot massage as a way of relaxing tired feet after a long day of work and counteracting stress,
However, it is also best recommended to check first if you are in poor health, recovering from illness or pregnant.

What are the benefits of a foot massage?

**The most basic benefits are that by receiving foot massage, one can experience relaxation and pain from sore and aching feet. Foot massage can help to release toxins and lactic acid from the body. It’s also a good way of releasing stress and get re-energized.

Sources:   *www.drfoot.co.uk/foot_massage.htm

             **www.massageclassifieds.com/benefitsoffootmassage.html

 

 

Jeanette Aw Appearance, 1 March 09

(An OSIM exclusive)

Jeanette graced the OSIM roadshow at Suntec City last Sunday. Many people were onsite to hear her introduce her hot new love – the OSIM uSqueez Warm.

Our princess arrives with a big smile for us!

Everyone trying to get a glimpse of Jeanette

Aunties and uncles are great fans!

Jeanette demonstrates the uSqueez Warm

Autograph signing on the giant backdrop

Beautiful flowers for Jeanette from OSIM

uSqueez Warm comes in beige color too