Self-care has certainly undergone a major revolution in recent years. The hybrid-work era, in particular, has changed how we approach relaxation; rather than scheduling one big trip to the spa, we’re now looking at “micro-acts” of self-care that take no more than half an hour right from the comfort of our homes, sometimes while we’re making our way through another day of remote work.
Massage chairs have proven to be a major component of this shift, providing a quick and convenient solution to relieve tension and stiffness.
Lynn Tan, deputy CEO of local wellness company OSIM, says there was a “substantial surge in demand” for such devices during the Covid-19 pandemic. “Our massage chairs became a preferred solution, offering comfort and relaxation when traditional outlets, like spas, were inaccessible and travel options slowed.”
Tan tells Haven that demand remains strong even as the effects of the pandemic continue to wear off. A nose for innovation and integrating new technologies, she explains, has helped OSIM’s products stay relevant, even as industries like travel recover.
“Today’s consumers are more discerning and informed than ever before,” says Tan. “They’re not just looking for a product that offers pain relief or stylish design; they want an all-encompassing wellness experience that addresses both physical and mental well-being.” She adds that the company’s product development teams are constantly analysing emerging trends and adapting as new patterns arise.
Honing in on increased personalisation and customisation is one approach OSIM has taken to keep up with consumers’ changing preferences. The company’s recent models, including the flagship uDream Pro 5-Senses Well-Being Chair, have coupled “artificial intelligence-driven” biosensors to detect tension with ECG technology to track users’ stress levels; this allows for individualised massage programs to improve effectiveness.
OSIM has also introduced a mobile application that allows users to download massage programs into their massage devices. The app also allows users to link up separate devices to create a synchronised full-body experience. “This seamless integration creates a connected wellness experience that adapts to the evolving needs of our users,” says Tan.
Beyond technical specifications, OSIM is also focusing on elevating the aesthetic appeal of its massage chairs. The bulky, clunky devices of days past will no longer cut it for today’s sleek-focused consumer, especially as space at home becomes increasingly valuable and limited.
While Tan notes that it is “always a challenge to strike the right balance between aesthetics and functionality”, she says the company has found ways to meet the growing demand for “modular, multi-functional products that don’t compromise on style or functionality”.
For example, the uDiva Sofa fully reclines without the need for extra space behind it. The device also — as its name suggests — doubles up as a regular sofa and can be reconfigured to match users’ evolving needs, with both two-seater and three-seater configurations. It also comes with a multipurpose ottoman, which can be used as a seat, table or storage solution. Tan says this flexibility makes the product “a perfect choice for those looking to plan their living spaces for future changes, whether they are growing their families or upgrading their homes”.
The Invisible Massage Chair is another product created to suit small homes or for those who prefer furniture with a smaller footprint; it comes as two separate components that can be paired with a regular chair to turn it into a full-body massage chair. “Even with space constraints, consumers can still fulfil their dream of having a massage chair without needing the space for a full-sized unit, while also enjoying the added flexibility of using the massagers independently,” says Tan.
Asked about what she sees as the future of wellness, Tan says OSIM is betting on AI to drive major changes in the field, pointing to its potential for creating hyper-personalised experiences. “In the future, predictive AI could recommend wellness treatments based on a person’s stress levels or more, expanding beyond massage to offer comprehensive wellness solutions,” she says. “This advancement will empower users to manage their stress and overall well-being more effectively.”
Tan concludes that “personalised, data-driven solutions that integrate seamlessly into everyday life” are the way forward in the world of self-care. “We believe the demand for wellness is evergreen, and as global awareness of health and well-being grows, so too will the demand for our innovative solutions.”
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