MULTIPURPOSE YOGA DEVICE
A multipurpose yoga device designed for therapeutic, fitness and circus use which can be suspended in the doorway of a person's home or over any horizontal bar to allow a user to perform any of a large multiplicity of yoga exercises, movements, postures or functions ranging from, traction, inversion therapy (hanging upside down), correcting scoliosis, conditioning, total body stretching or strengthening, fascial self massage, partner massage, simple relaxation, client massage by trained massage therapists and tantric position for lovers, and said multipurpose yoga device comprising: a massage swing, a plurality of safe sticks, a plurality of fastening straps, a plurality of rings, a plurality of hand straps and a plurality of leg straps.
The present invention generally relates to a device and a method of therapeutic and fitness product. More particularly, the present invention relates to a device and a method for a comfortable swing to be used in the practice of yoga positions.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONIt is a well-established fact that proper exercise is a component of good health. The practice of yoga has become very popular over the years. Various types of yoga have been found to increase strength and flexibility, putting the yoga practitioner's mind at ease while performing the yoga poses, postures or positions. There are numerous types of yoga practices. Yoga itself is directed to the combined effect of physical, mental and spiritual necessities of yoga practitioners. Yoga in its various forms, has been practiced for thousands of years. As a form of exercise, yoga stresses harmony of the body through stretching and strengthening exercises.
Yoga has become a main stream activity in the west and is practised by people of all ages and body types, including the very unfit inflexible ones who have more likely spent large periods of their life sitting on office chairs or sofas with a collapsed posture and rounded lower back. Over time, this leads to the compression of the lower vertebra and stiffening of the lumbar fascia and lumbar and thoracic back muscles.
Yoga is most commonly known for forward bend sequences such as the ‘sun salutation’ and ‘uttanasana’. These involve bending forward and, in dogmatic variations such as Astanga, grasping the toes. For people with stiff thoracic and lumber fascia and muscles, this can result in further compression and possible nerve impingement as the lower back has to round excessively in order to reach the toes. This can cause sciatica and often compression of the nerves between or near the L4-L5 vertebral junction. The inflammation of these nerves can, in turn, cause the surrounding muscles to tense and become immobile. As the muscles have tensed, there is less movement and so the lumber fascia also becomes tight and immobile. As daily spontaneous movements and sports place demands for greater movement on the muscle, the nearby muscle fibres, which are often located in the gluteus maximus, piriformus or quadratus loburum, tear as they pull and encounter resistance. This can form a collection of scarred mangled muscle fibres which form a knot, which gets exponentially bigger, adding to compression on nearby nerves. The blood flow through these fibres is therefore interrupted and lack of use means the body ‘forgets’ about the knot.
Attempts to stretch the area through repeated yoga forward bends worsens the problem and can also lead to torn hamstrings. This is because these yoga exercises require active use of the muscles, meaning they are being contracted while being stretched at the same time. This can be very effective and can imitate the ‘Muscle Energy Technique’ of sports massage. It is not, however, suitable for the scenario we have discussed.
There is, therefore, a need to create more space in the lumbar region by loosening the muscles and creating more space between the vertebrae. There is also a need to send the attention of the body to the precise area to provide more blood and hence oxygen and phagocytes to repair cells, reduce inflammation of lumbar nerves, passively stretch the tight muscles in the lower back area to create more length without the contraction which can result in tear from pulling on fibrous areas of tissue, and loosen the lumbar fascia.
There are a number of devices known in prior art which discloses yoga devices. There are also a number of yoga devices known in the art for practicing yoga in an inverted position and for providing therapeutic functions.
U.S. Pat. No. 7,255,666 discloses a multi-function swing apparatus for total-body exercise, stretching, yoga, spinal traction, gymnastics, inversion therapy, spinal manipulation and weightless coupling and sky chair. Some of the advantages of this invention which are unique include: Maneuverability—this invention is designed for total body movement, and a virtual infinite range of motion in all directions. Comfort—This unit is more comfortable due to the use of springs and a thick foam or cotton cushion in the apron sling. Spring Action—Extension springs (or bunji cords) not only make it fun to play on but give added comfort for a smooth, gentle and cushioned bounce effect during use. Inversion Therapy—Besides allowing one to hang comfortably from the pelvic-waist area instead of by the feet as with other inversion units, the superiority of this design allows not only to hang either forward and backwards during inversion, but also one can flex, extend or rotate the trunk in order to accomplish stretching, strengthening and joint mobilization of the spine. Multiple handles and a pull up bar attached to the swing apparatus at various levels allow for a greater variety of stretches, exercises and movement pattern combinations. Multi-purpose—A hammock-like option becomes available for relaxation by simply removing the thigh pads, secured by velcro, and seat cushion, then suspending either end of the sling apart between two trees, using the cushion for a pillow. Adjustability—not only can the multiple handles be adjusted in height levels, but the sling or apron can be adjusted in height or width to accommodate different exercises, movements or uses. Neuro-Muscular Re-education—due to the multiple handles and postures and movements this apparatus affords makes it an ideal physical therapy device for neuromuscular re-education, re-patterning, exercises, and rehabilitation. Floating Meditation—affords the option for suspended or floating meditation. Spin Capability—uses an optional swivel hook to hang pelvic sling from, which gives it the added capability of spinning while upright or inverted. Tone Bands and other props—attached to the support frame at varying heights are bunji-style tone bands which allow for a variety of resistance exercises of the trunk and extremities. The poles work themselves as props and handles for even more exercises, poses and stretches. Versatility—provides a wide variety of applications and exercises including yoga, inversion therapy, strengthening, stretching, gymnastics, meditation, hammock use, skychair use, fun, proprioceptive exercise training and neuro-muscular re-education.
U.S. Pat. No. 3,593,708 discloses a Body Suspension Device which permits a trapeze bar to be employed for treating back disorders by permitting the human body to be suspended in an inverted position by the leg thighs and stabilized by disposing the legs upwardly with the feet resting upon the pair of vertical elements which support the bar. This is accomplished by providing at least one rotatable platform on the bar one face of which platform is padded. By the use of this platform, the body weight is distributed over a much greater area than it would be were it all supported by the thighs resting on the bar itself. The padding further affords additional comfort by itself yielding under the pressure of the user's thigh muscles. To prevent the person, when mounting the bar from a standing position and swinging over it to the inverted position, from over swinging and possibly falling off, a transverse element is extended between the vertical elements above from the bar at approximately the level where the person's ankles would pass in an arc about the bar if over swinging should occur.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,209,712 discloses a proprioceptive exercise, training and therapy apparatus for supporting and stabilizing at least a portion of the user's body and limbs from at least one elongated flexible support member. Each flexible support member is releasably secured to a selected structural support means. A plurality of attachment points are provided in sequential linear alignment on the flexible support member. An adjustable positioning means is provided on each flexible support member. A first user engagement member is in the form of a rigid, rectangular bar. A second user engagement member is in the form of a flexible body sling, with ends adapted for releasable securement to at least one flexible support member. A third user engagement member comprises at least one hand and foot coupling member, releasably secured to the flexible support member or to a suitable retaining means.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,637,055 discloses a yoga inversion bed with leg attachment which is pivotable from a horizontal arrangement to a vertical arrangement to controllably invert a human body from a supine position to an inverted position. The arrangement of the bed is controlled by at least one electric actuator so that injured or ill persons may attain the inverted position safely and easily. Hanging by their legs, users are suspended in the inverted position by a trapeze bar which is supported within a rotatable leg attachment; by adjusting the position of the trapeze bar and the angle of the leg attachment, selective stimulation may be applied to targeted acupressure points. A heating and/or vibrating unit may be included to provide further stimulation to the spine.
Numerous yoga devices are being made and sold by many companies. A few examples of such companies are Omgym, Zero gravity gym, Yoga body naturals, Yoga swings and Yoga Hammock. One of such companies uses ‘parachute silk’, which is in fact nylon or similar materials, has a very unnatural look and feel. The ‘parachute silk’ bunches together if the user wants to wrap it around their sacrum like a belt. This gives a very unstable and slippery belt. This does not give a localised massage of the lumbar fascia or of muscles or muscle knots of the lower back. Also, the instability of the slippery bunched material does not allow the body or muscles to feel firmly held, and so they may not be able to fully relax. These swings normally hang too wide and low for normal doors. They also have a complicated look to them. The handles are made out of plastic and rubber, which is not very strong and does not have the natural look or feel that many yoga practitioners may want. Yoga is seen by some as the union of the self with universal consciousness. It is strongly associated with an appreciation for nature. Plastic type materials seem at odds to this to some people. These ‘parachute silk’ hammock style yoga swings are often designed primarily to be hung from ring bolts drilled into the ceiling. While this is a good option for hanging, many people do not feel capable of this level of installation, nor do they have the tools, or perhaps the right to structurally alter rented accommodation. These ‘parachute silk’ hammock style yoga swings are often very costly.
The products designed to be installed into the walls of yoga studios, such as the Yoga Wall involves complex installation and a collection of expensive parts. Generic polyester inversion swings that can be found hanging in yoga shalas in India are often homemade and are not very strong, thus lack safety. While they use the same simple system of wrapping the belt over a bar and then passing the main belt of the swing through a loop at the end of the swing, they are then normally only fastened by a simple straight edged stick. This is dangerous as it can simply slip out, meaning the loop system slips out and the user may fall on their head.
Consequently, there exists in the art a long-felt need for a yoga device that will enable an user to create more space in the lumbar region by loosening the muscles and creating more space between the vertebrae. There also exists in the art a long felt need for a yoga device that provides very localized and firm pressure and thus sends the attention of the body to the precise area to provide more blood, increased phagocytes and oxygen to repair cells. Additionally, there is a long felt need in the art for a training device that can be used to reduce inflammation of lumbar nerves, passively stretch the tight muscles in the lower back area to create more length without the contraction which can cause tear from pulling on fibrous areas of tissue, and loosen the lumbar fascia. Finally, there is a long-felt need for a yoga device that accomplishes all of the forgoing objectives and that is relatively inexpensive to manufacture, natural to look and feel, quick to install, safe, strong, comfortable and easy to use.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTIONIt is an object of the invention to provide a multipurpose yoga device which is both a therapeutic and fitness product.
Another object of the invention is to provide a multipurpose yoga device that is designed to be hung in the doorway of a person's home or over any horizontal bar.
Yet another object of the invention is to provide a multipurpose yoga device which is used for conditioning and yoga stretches.
A still another object of the invention is to provide a multipurpose yoga device which is used as a circus equipment for training and performing.
Yet another object of the invention is to provide a multipurpose yoga device with a simple attachment mechanism that needs no tools, is simple for anyone to understand, can be manufactured without metal or unnatural looking parts, can be assembled in a matter of seconds, and is strong to withstand a force of at least 1 Kilo Newton.
A further object of the invention is to provide a multipurpose yoga device which is made out of natural cotton.
A still further object of the invention is to provide a multipurpose yoga device which is stable enough to provide self-massage, partner massage, client massage by trained massage therapists and tantric positions for lovers.
A still another object of the invention is to provide a multipurpose yoga device which provides creating more space in the lumbar region by loosening the muscles and creating more space between the vertebrae.
Yet another object of the invention is to provide a multipurpose yoga device which helps in sending the attention of the body to the precise problem area of the lower back to provide more blood and hence oxygen and phagocytes to repair fibrous and/or torn cells.
These and other objects of the invention will be apparent from the ensuing description.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTIONThe following presents a simplified summary in order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosed innovation. This summary is not an extensive overview, and it is not intended to identify key/critical elements or to delineate the scope thereof. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.
The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one aspect thereof, is a multipurpose yoga device comprising of a massage swing with looped ends, a plurality of safe sticks and a plurality of fastening straps. The multipurpose yoga device further comprises of a plurality of rings, wherein said rings can be attached to the massage swing at different locations. The multipurpose yoga device further comprises of a plurality of hand straps and a plurality of leg straps wherein said hand straps act as handles and said leg straps act as a place for the legs or feet to rest. The multipurpose yoga device further comprises of a plurality of hook and loop fasteners.
The massage swing is preferably 4 meter long, 65 millimetre (mm) wide and 6 millimetre thick and has a 20 centimeter (cm) loop at each end. The massage swing preferably comprises of three 2 millimeter of cotton layers sewed together with nylon thread. More specifically, the 65 millimetre of cotton belt has a specific tightness of weave. It is both loose and large enough to have some ‘bounce’ or ‘give’ and firm enough to provide the firm hold of the heel of the hand of a massage therapist. As the cotton belt rests on the sacrum, the weight of the body pushes it into the lumbar fascia, which is seldom massaged because it covers the bones of the sacrum and the iliac crest. This fascia is fundamental to a good walking pattern and therefore to the correct functioning of the entire muscular system. The Thoracolumbar fascia can be seen as a big rubber band connecting the upper torso with the legs. If it is generally stiff or is stiffer on one side, this can result in increased pull on certain muscles and associated joint inflammation. This is often seen in a spiral of inflamed knees, lower back pain and frequent tears in anterior deltoid shoulder muscles on the opposite side of the body from the knee.
The safe stick is also preferably dumbbell shaped and is comprised of a 15 centimeter long one piece stick. The Safe Stick is to stop the massage swing in the middle from slipping off. To provide further safety holes have been drilled through the middle. The fastening strap is wrapped around the massage swing, through these grooves, out through the other side, and then is wrapped around the massage swing and secured by hook and loop fasteners. This leaves no possibility for the swing to fall out.
The leg straps and hand straps attach to the massage swing by using the safe stick. They add extra functionality to the swing and stability for less confident users. They have large loops at each end to be attached to rings or they can also be used as handles without rings as a cheaper option.
The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in another aspect thereof, is a method of use of the multipurpose yoga device. In a preferred embodiment a doorway pull up bar is installed over the top of a door frame. Stability of the doorway pull up bar by hanging from the user's hands is checked. Each one of the looped ends of the massage swing is hanged over the highest of the two bars. The looped ends of the strap is wrapped around the bar two to three times until the bottom of the massage swing is hanging just below waist height. The user's hand is pushed through one of the hanging loops. Then the user takes hold of the straight hanging part of the strap. The user then pulls the long hanging part of the strap through the loop at the end of the strap to form another loop. The safe stick is put through the loop and then the massage swing is pulled above and below the stick so that it tightens around the safe stick. This secures the massage swing to the doorway pull up bar. The massage swing is between the two wider ends of the safe stick so that it cannot slip out. Once both the safe sticks are inserted, the height of the bottom of the massage swing is at about waist height. This will mean that when inverted, the user's head is an inch or two off the floor. The fastening straps are added for extra safety. The fastening strap is to be held horizontally end to end behind the safe stick with the loop and hook fastener side facing the user. The two hook and loop fastener ends are brought towards each other as if the user wants to stick them together but then at the last minute they should be crossed over. The ends of the fastening strap are fed through the holes in the middle of the safe stick. The right end of the fastening strap is to be wrapped round the back of the massage swing and round the front in a counter clockwise direction so that the hook and the loop fastening side is facing the user. The left side of the fastening strap is wrapped round the back of the swing and round the front in a clockwise direction so that the two hook and loop fasteners sides stick together.
Consequently, the multipurpose yoga device of the present invention enables a user to create more space in the lumbar region by loosening the muscles and creating more space between the vertebrae. The multipurpose yoga device provides sending the attention of the body to the precise area to provide more blood and hence oxygen and phagocytes to repair cells. Additionally, the multipurpose yoga device can be used to reduce inflammation of lumbar nerves, passively stretch the tight muscles in the lower back area to create more length without the contraction which can cause tear from pulling on fibrous areas of tissue, and loosen the lumbar fascia. Finally, the multipurpose yoga device is relatively inexpensive to manufacture, natural to look and feel, quick to install, safe, strong, comfortable and easy to use.
To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, certain illustrative aspects of the disclosed innovation are described herein in connection with the following description and the annexed drawings. These aspects are indicative, however, of but a few of the various ways in which the principles disclosed herein can be employed and is intended to include all such aspects and their equivalents. Other advantages and novel features will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the drawings.
The invention is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding thereof. It may be evident, however, that the invention can be practiced without these specific details.
The multipurpose yoga device of the present invention enables a user in creating more space in the lumbar region by loosening the muscles and creating more space between the vertebrae. The multipurpose yoga device provides sending the attention of the body to the precise area to provide more blood and hence oxygen and phagocytes to repair cells. Additionally, the multipurpose yoga device can be used to reduce inflammation of lumbar nerves, passively stretch the tight muscles in the lower back area to create more length without the contraction which can cause tearage from pulling on fibrous areas of tissue, and loosen the lumbar fascia. Finally, the multipurpose yoga device is relatively inexpensive to manufacture, natural to look and feel, quick to install, safe, strong, comfortable and easy to use.
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In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the massage swing 110 is preferably 4 meter (m) long, 65 millimeter (mm) wide and 6 millimeter (mm) thick and has a 20 centimeter (cm) loop at each end. The 6 millimeter (mm) thickness of large weave cotton preferably comprises of three 2 mm of cotton layers sewed together with nylon thread. Nonetheless, it is contemplated that other dimensions could also be used without affecting the overall concept of the present invention.
In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the safety stick 120 is preferably 15 cm long one piece stick shaped like a dumbbell. At least one 27 mm×5 mm hole is drilled through the middle. Nonetheless, it is contemplated that other dimensions could also be used without affecting the overall concept of the present invention.
In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the fastening strap 130 is preferably 76 cm long. The fastening strap 130 is preferably 1 inch wide and 1 mm thick. The fastening strap 130 has preferably hook and loop fastener sections at each end. Nonetheless, it is contemplated that other dimensions could also be used without affecting the overall concept of the present invention.
In a preferred embodiment of the present invention the rings 135 are standard size Olympic rings. The thickness of the wooden ring (Pipe diameter) is preferably 30 mm. The external diameter of the entire ring is preferably 235 mm.
In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the hand straps 140 and leg straps 145 are designed to be used with 23.5 centimeter rings, which act as handles for the user of the massage swing 110. Each hand strap 140 has a large loop at both ends. The large loop has preferably an opening 28 centimeter long to allow the ring to pass through easily to use the attachment method. The leg straps 145 are designed for use with the legs, for positions such as splits or for tantric positions. Preferably two leg straps 145 are needed for each massage Swing 110. The hand straps 140 are designed for use primarily with the hands, for stabilisation and conditioning moves. Two hand straps 140 are preferably needed for each massage swing 110. The strap is preferably 100% natural cotton and is a natural cotton colour. The strap is preferably 65 millimeter wide, 4 millimeter thick, and is preferably comprised of two 2 millimeter layers sewn together at the edges. The strap and all sewing points must have a minimum breaking point of 1 Kilo Newton (KN). The leg strap 145 is preferably 155 centimeter end to end when its two loops are already sewed in. To make the large loops, preferably an extra 31 centimeter of strap is needed for each one. This is to provide preferably a flat loop diameter of 28 centimeter from the end of the large loop to the first line of stitching.
Method of Installation of the Multipurpose Yoga Device
In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a doorway pull up bar is installed over the top of a door frame. Stability of the doorway pull up bar by is checked by hanging from it. Each one of the looped ends of the massage swing 110 is hanged over the highest of the two bars. The looped ends of the strap is wrapped around the bar two to three times until the bottom of the massage swing 110 is hanging just below waist height. The user's hand is pushed through one of the hanging loops. Then the user takes hold of the straight hanging part of the strap. The user then pulls the long hanging part of the strap through the loop at the end of the strap to form another loop. The safe stick is put through the loop and then the massage swing is pulled above and below the stick so that it tightens around the safe stick 120. This secures the swing to the doorway pull up bar. The massage swing 110 is between the two wider ends of the safe stick 120 so that it cannot slip out. Once both the safe sticks 120 are inserted, the height of the bottom of the massage swing 110 is at about waist height. This will mean that when inverted, the user's head is an inch or two off the floor.
The fastening straps 130 are added for extra safety. The fastening strap 130 is to be held horizontally end to end behind the safe stick 120 with the hook 10 and loop 20 fastener side facing the user. The two hook and loop fastener ends are brought towards each other as if the user wants to stick them together but then at the last minute they should be crossed over. The ends of the fastening strap 130 is fed through the hole in the middle of the safe stick 120. The right end of the fastening strap 130 is to be wrapped round the back of the swing and round the front in a counter clockwise direction so that the hook 10 and the loop 20 fastening side is facing the user. The left side of the fastening strap 130 is wrapped round the back of the massage swing 110 and round the front in a clockwise direction so that the two hook and loop fastener sides stick together.
How to Install and Use the Multipurpose Yoga Device in Doors without a Bar
In another preferred embodiment of the present invention the massage swing can be hanged in doors without using doorway pull up bars. This technique is not suitable for all doors. This technique is suitable only if the door closes firmly with a handle. In some cases, there is a very tight gap between the top of the door and the doorframe and the massage swing will not fit or the door will not close firmly.
The massage swings 110 should only be hanged so that the pressure of the massage swing 110 closes the door towards the wall rather than opening it.
The user positions on the side of the door so the user would pull the handle towards himself or herself to close the door.
2. The door should be opened to an angle of 45 degrees.
3. The massage swing 110 should hang over the top of the door so that the message swing 110 hangs at waist height. This is normally about the height of the handle.
4. Going to the other side of the door and knots are to be tied around the safe sticks 120 at the very top of the door to stop the massage swing sliding through the top of the door. An alternative option is to simply tie single or double knots without the safe sticks 120.
5. Placing a sign on the side of the door with the knots to warn people not to open the door.
6. Going back to the other side of the door with the swing and the door is closed. Make sure the door is firmly closed and the user hears the click of the handle. This should be tested by trying to open the door without pushing the handle down. If the door is not completely firmly closed, the user should not attempt to hang in this way.
7. Pulling on the swing to take any slack out so that the swings/knots are tightly against the other side of the door.
8. Standing between the door and the massage swing 110 with the massage swing 110 round user's waist and putting all user's weight into the massage swing 110 while still standing up to test the massage swing 110 is firmly installed.
9. Positioning the massage swing 110 at the level of the sacrum.
10. Facing the door, grabbing and holding of both sides of the massage swing 110 and turning user's body sideways and walking user's feet up the doorframe until user is upside down.
11. Repositioning the massage swing 110 if it has moved so that it is on the sacrum and user's back is hanging straight.
12. Hanging out like a monkey getting out of the massage swing 110 when it is hung over a door.
Getting Out of the Massage Swing when it is Hung Over a Door
Bending user's knees and pushing against the doorframe with user's feet.
Grabbing of one of the sides of the massage swing and engaging user's arms as a counter lever as user brings his or her legs down to the floor and user's upper torso raises up.
Placing user's feet on the ground.
The user may want to turn around away from the door and bend forward over the swing to get used to standing up again. This will act as a nice hamstring and upper glutes stretch.
Having now described the preferred embodiment of multipurpose yoga device, its use and advantages will now be described.
The self-massage effect—The massage swing is designed differently to other hammock style Yoga Swings. It is 6 mm thick and 65 mm wide so it fits neatly on the sacrum (the flat bone at the bottom of the back) and sinks in to the lumbar fascia and the upper glutes to loosen up what is often a very tight and compressed area. The 65 mm width of 100% cotton can give a deep Neuromuscular type by pushing into areas of fibrous hard muscle tissue in the deep rotator muscles such as the piriformis. This is the kind of technique you pay massage therapists £60 an hour for and now you can have it every day. The pressure of the strap stimulates the deep nerves and sends the attention of the body to the area which sends, allowing healing and repair of damaged and twisted muscle fibres and the flushing away of stagnant tissue
The spinal decompression effect (traction)—Normal conditions of gravity and the results of bad posture from office sitting result in the compression of the vertebrae over time. This can cause nerves to be compressed, particularly in the lumbar lower back region, and so muscles tense and contract as a defence mechanism to protect the spine, which in turn puts more pressure on spinal nerves and so pain can result in the back and trigger points all over the body. Sciatica is a good example of this. Inversions in the massage swing turn gravity on its head, turning compression into decompression. The muscles of the back no longer have to do their job of keeping the upper torso straight and so they relax and become passive, allowing the weight of the head and body to gently create space between the hanging point: the sacrum, and the main weight: the head. This is traction. This will make the user longer, taller and straighter.
The anti-office effect—People tend to round both their lower back and their shoulders when sitting in office chairs for hours on end. This results in a shortening of the chest muscles and a deactivation of the muscles which should maintain a healthy natural inwards curve in the lumbar region. As the user hangs upside down, the indiscriminate pressure of gravity straightens out rounded areas and helps restore the body to healthy anatomical alignment.
The passive yoga effect—Almost all yoga poses can be performed in the massage swing, but with passive muscles rather than muscles which are active holding the body up. Although the benefits of activating healthy muscle function while stretching are enormous, sometimes particularly tight muscles need a softer approach. Stretching without the effect of gravity can lead to a deeper stretch and help the user to convince muscles that they can stretch further by reducing their reflex to contract.
The spinal straightening effect (correcting scoliosis)—Almost all people have some kind of coliosis (spine veers to the right or left when looking from behind). This can lead to unequal muscle load and postural imbalances, which can worsen over the years and lead to significant pain. Gravity helps encourage the spine to find its natural straight form.
Other key benefits of the multipurpose yoga device include but not limited to:
Deep massage of back muscles such as the rhomboids, the trapezius and the rotator cuff muscles is facilitated as they relax entirely.
Improved circulation as the lymph system is turned upside down.
Relief for pregnant women as the constant downwards weight of the baby is turned upside down.
The massage swing can be hanged on anything that provides a horizontal place to hang, such as:
Strong tree branches
Football goal posts
Wooden cross beams in old houses or warehouses
Hooks or loops installed into ceilings.
Olympic rings—This allows the user to swing a lot.
Wall mounted pull up bars.
Staircases and banisters.
The maximum height for the hanging point the user can have the bottom of the swing easily accessible at waist height is 2.5 meters. The user can of course hang the massage swing at any height if the user is strong enough and agile enough to get into it.
With a length of 4 meters, the maximum height for the hanging point is 2.5 meters if the user wants the bottom of the swing to hang at about waist height for easy use. It can be hung at any height if ease of entry is not an issue.
Load information—The multipurpose yoga device is safe for use by a 120 kilogram person if the stick and strap are used as per instructions. This gives a standard ten times margin for error before stick breakage begins to occur with a force of 1 Kilo Newton.
Extra information—The multipurpose yoga device has been tested by specialised machinery and can withstand a static force of 5 Kilo Newton before it begins to tear. It has also been tested by specialised machinery. It can withstand a static force of 1.2 Kilo Newton if the force is straight down on the centre of the stick. If the Monkey Stick is hanging on its side through the worst case scenario of incorrect use whereby the strap is putting pressure on the wide end of the stick, the breaking strength is 0.5 Newton.
Washing—The multipurpose yoga device can be machine or hand washed at 40 degrees Celsius. The safe sticks should be kept dry and left in warm, airy and dry place if they get damp.
How to Use the Massage Swing for Spinal Decompression
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- 1. Testing the massage swing 110 and doorway pull up bar are correctly installed by holding both sides of the massage swing 110 and pulling down with all user's body weight.
- 2. Standing facing the door with the massage swing 110 behind the user hanging at user's waist. If the massage swing 110 is at user's waist then the user's head will clear the floor when the user invert, depending on the user's body proportions.
- 3. Standing straight and about 30 centimeter from the door, positioning the massage swing 110 on the user's sacrum, otherwise known as the flat bone at the bottom of the back. This is the space just above the gluteal cleft (bum crack). The user may have to raise onto the tiptoes to get the swing into this position.
- 4. With the user's thumbs pointing upwards and palms facing inward, the user needs to hold the strap between thumb and index finger either side and slightly in front of the waist.
- 5. Keeping user's body quite straight, the user needs to lean his or her weight back into the swing enough to stop the strap sliding up the user's back. If the swing does slide up, the user will end up in a back bend, which may cause some lumbar (lower back) compression.
- 6. Maintaining some of user's weight on the strap, the user needs to shuffle his or her feet forwards slightly so the user's body assumes a 45 degree angle to the door.
- 7. Now the user's weight is holding the strap in place. The user needs to move his or her hands up to about the height of about 135 cm from the end of the sling. While the user lift one of his or her legs of the floor and then the other leg of the floor as the user swing slightly and lower his or her upper torso to a more horizontal position. To save effort from user's abdominal muscles the user needs to bend his or her legs towards self in a tuck position.
- 8. The user needs to walk his or her hands down the strap as the user place his or her bent knees on the outside of the massage swing 110 and lower his or her head towards the floor. The user can place his or her feet together for a feeling of security, or can keep them open. This will allow the user's pelvis more freedom and will also mean the swing puts less pressure on the inner thigh.
- 9. When the user's head is near the floor, the user needs to release his or hands and let them hang.
- 10. Repositioning the strap as necessary for comfort and alignment. If the massage swing 110 is correctly positioned on the user's sacrum, user's back will hang straight and the weight of the user's upper body and head together with gravity will gently create space in vertebrae and passively stretch user's back muscles and open his or her chest and shoulders. Many curvaceous women may need to position the swing lower than the sacrum in the middle of the buttocks to avoid excessive anterior tilt of the pelvis.
Consequently, the multipurpose yoga device of the present invention enables a user in creating more space in the lumbar region by loosening the muscles and creating more space between the vertebrae. The multipurpose yoga device provides sending the attention of the body to the precise area to provide more blood and hence oxygen and phagocytes to repair cells. Additionally, the multipurpose yoga device can be used to reduce inflammation of lumbar nerves, passively stretch the tight muscles in the lower back area to create more length without the contraction which can cause tearage from pulling on fibrous areas of tissue, and loosen the lumbar fascia. Finally, the multipurpose yoga device is relatively inexpensive to manufacture, natural to look and feel, quick to install, safe, strong, comfortable and easy to use.
Additionally, other variations are within the spirit of the present invention. Thus, while the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, a certain illustrated embodiment thereof is shown in the drawings and has been described above in detail. It should be understood, however, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form or forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention, as defined in the appended claims.
The use of the terms “a” and “an” and “the” and similar referents in the context of describing the invention (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms “comprising,” “having,” “including,” and “containing” are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning “including, but not limited to,”) unless otherwise noted. The term “connected” is to be construed as partly or wholly contained within, attached to, or joined together, even if there is something intervening. Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate embodiments of the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention unless otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the invention.
Preferred embodiments of this invention are described herein. Variations of those preferred embodiments may become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading the foregoing description. The inventor expects skilled artisans to employ such variations as appropriate, and the inventor intends for the invention to be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein. Accordingly, this invention includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicable law. Moreover, any combination of the above-described elements in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the invention unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.
Claims
1. A multipurpose yoga device designed for therapeutic, fitness and circus use which can be suspended in the doorway of a person's home or over any horizontal bar to allow a user to perform any of a large multiplicity of yoga exercises, movements, postures or functions ranging from, traction, inversion therapy (hanging upside down), correcting scoliosis, conditioning, total body stretching or strengthening, fascial self massage, partner massage, simple relaxation, client massage by trained massage therapists and tantric position for lovers, and said multipurpose yoga device comprising:
- a massage swing comprising a longitudinal shaped cotton woven swing with looped ends whose central section or saddle portion hangs freely downward once both upper ends of said massage swing are hanged to both ends of an overhead doorway pull up bar which hangs horizontally suspended from a door frame (a support frame), whereby said massage swing is wrapped snugly plurality of times around said doorway pull up bar;
- a plurality of dumbbell shaped removable safe sticks with a hole in the middle of each said safe stick designed for insertion of each said safe stick into a second loop formed at said loop ends of said massage swing by means of pulling the massage swing above and below the said safe stick so that it tightens around said safe stick;
- a plurality of fastening straps comprising of a longitudinal shaped strap whose opposing ends have a hook and loop fasteners and said fastening strap is fed through said hole of said safe sticks and right end of said fastening straps are wrapped around the back of said massage swing and around the front in a counter clockwise direction and left side of said fastening straps are wrapped around the back of said massage swing and around the front in a counter clockwise direction so that said hook and loop fasteners are stuck together and whose purpose thereby is to provide extra safety to a user;
- a plurality of rings adjustably attachable to said massage swing for the purpose of allowing the user of said massage swing to lower themselves down to an inverted position without using abdominal muscles excessively; and
- a plurality of hand straps and a plurality of leg straps both comprising of straps made of cotton and both having loops at both ends thereby allowing said ring to pass through said loops of said hand straps wherein said hand straps act as handles for said user of said massage swing and said leg straps are designed for use with the legs.
2. The multipurpose yoga device as in claim 1, wherein said multipurpose yoga device does not require tool for assembling and can be assembled within 60 seconds.
3. The multipurpose yoga device as in claim 1, wherein said multipurpose yoga device uses no metal.
4. The multipurpose yoga device as in claim 1, wherein said multipurpose yoga device provides creating more space in the lumbar region by loosening the muscles and creating more space between the vertebrae.
5. The multipurpose yoga device as in claim 1, wherein said multipurpose yoga device helps in sending the attention of the body to the precise problem area of the lower back to provide more blood and hence oxygen and phagocytes to repair fibrous and/or torn cells.
6. The multipurpose yoga device as in claim 1, wherein said massage swing can with stand a force of at least 1 Kilo Newton.
7. The multipurpose yoga device as in claim 1, wherein said massage swing is manufactured in a variety of lengths, sizes, colors, styles and designs.
8. The multipurpose yoga device as in claim 1, wherein said safety stick is a one piece stick.
9. The multipurpose yoga device as in claim 1, wherein said safety stick is made of camphor wood, alder wood or any other suitable material.
10. The multipurpose yoga device as in claim 1, wherein said fastening strap is made of polypropylene, nylon or any other suitable material.
11. The multipurpose yoga device as in claim 1, wherein said fastening strap is manufactured in a variety of lengths, sizes, colors, styles and designs.
12. The multipurpose yoga device as in claim 1, wherein said ring is made of wood or any other suitable material.
13. The multipurpose yoga device as in claim 1, wherein said ring is standard size Olympic ring.
14. The multipurpose yoga device as in claim 1, wherein two said hand straps are needed for each said massage swing.
15. The multipurpose yoga device as in claim 1, wherein said hand straps are designed for use with the hands for stabilization and conditional moves.
16. The multipurpose yoga device as in claim 1, wherein two said leg straps are needed for each said massage swing.
17. The multipurpose yoga device as in claim 1, wherein said leg straps are designed for use with the legs for splits and tantric positions.
18. The multipurpose yoga device as in claim 1, wherein said hand straps and said leg straps have a minimum breaking point of 1 Kilo Newton.
19. The multipurpose yoga device as in claim 1, wherein said multipurpose yoga device is washable.
20. The method of installation of a multipurpose device as in claim 1, comprising the steps of:
- providing a massage swing with looped ends, a plurality of safe sticks, a plurality of fastening straps, a plurality of rings, a plurality of hook and loop fasteners, a plurality of hand straps and a plurality of leg straps;
- installing a doorway pull up bar over the top of a door frame;
- checking the stability of said doorway pull up bar by hanging from a user's hand;
- hanging each one of the looped ends of said massage swing over the highest of the two bars;
- wrapping the looped ends of said strap around said doorway pull up bar two to three times until the bottom of said massage swing is hanging just below waist height;
- pushing user's hand through one of the hanging loops and taking hold of the straight hanging part of said strap;
- pulling the long hanging part of said strap through the loop at the end of said strap to form a second loop;
- putting said safe stick through said second loop and then pulling said massage swing above and below said safe stick so that said massage swing tightens around said safe stick;
- checking the height of the bottom of said swing is at waist height;
- holding said fastening strap horizontally end to end behind said safe stick with said hook and loop fasteners facing said user;
- bringing said hook and loop fastener ends towards each other as if the user wants to stick them together but at the last minute the user cross them over;
- feeding the ends of said fastening strap through a hole in the middle of said safe stick;
- wrapping the right end of said fastening strap round the back of said massage swing and round the front in a counter clockwise direction so that hook and loop fastener side is facing the user; and
- wrapping the left side of said fastening strap round the back of said massage swing and round the front in a counter clockwise direction so that hook and loop fastener stick together;
- wherein said massage swing is also hanged in doors without said doorway pull up bar and said massage swing is also hanged on anything that provides a horizontal place to hang.
Type: Application
Filed: Jul 23, 2014
Publication Date: Jan 28, 2016
Inventor: Paul Douglas Lauener (Sheffield)
Application Number: 14/338,440
