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New York Post
3 days ago
- Health
- New York Post
The 3 top-rated massage chairs to unwind and relax in 2025
Let's be real — you deserve better than sore shoulders and a stiff neck after a long day of being a responsible adult. Whether you've been grinding away at a desk, wrangling kids or just trying to survive the chaos of everyday life, one thing's for sure: you need a throne. Not just any throne, though: a massage chair that turns your living room into a personal spa, your office into a chill zone, and your bad days into distant memories. Lucky for you, we've put together the ultimate guide to finding the best massage chair that fits your style, your needs, and yes, your budget. See our picks Advertisement Of course, we know the big question: how much is this going to cost me? Massage chair price ranges from 'not bad' to 'maybe I'll sell a kidney.' That's why we've scoured massage chair reviews from real people who've actually used these things (not just marketing teams with fancy adjectives). So, if you're looking for affordable comfort or full-luxury relaxation, we'll help you find your dream chair without the buyer's remorse. Let's talk brands for a sec. If you're looking for a chair that blends futuristic tech with Instagram-worthy style, check out the Human Touch massage chair. These bad boys aren't just about looking cool (though they do look cool); they're designed to mimic real human massage techniques with scary-good accuracy. If you want a cozy massage chair recliner for Netflix marathons or a slick massage office chair that makes Monday meetings slightly less soul-crushing, brands like Relaxe bring the magic. We even found portable options for those who don't have a lot of space. Ready to treat yourself? Let's dive in — your perfect massage chair awaits. Best Massage Chairs Best Overall: Relaxe Shiatsu Massage Chair Relaxe Pros: Comes with 12 fully customizable massage modes Boasts modern Bluetooth connectivity to listen to music while you relax (or, should we say, Relaxe) Designed with space-saving technology as it's only two inches away from the wall 53-inch SL-track reaching your glutes and upper hamstrings Cons: Price point may be unreachable for some For a massage chair that has more moves than a TikTok dance challenge, it doesn't get any better than the Relaxe Shiatsu Massage Chair. The 4D Shiatsu rollers? Great! These little miracles glide up and down, in and out, and side to side. They knead, they roll, they stretch, and somehow, they find exactly where you carry your stress. Neck? Yes. Lower back? Of course. That one weird knot in your shoulder? Say goodbye. 'I had the chance to put the Relaxe shiatsu massage chair to the test for two straight weeks, and the opportunity couldn't have come at a better time, as I had just spent a whole Sunday carrying my 5-year-old daughter on my shoulders around the LA County fair grounds,' Al Murillo, senior director of commerce partnerships here at Post Wanted, shared after reviewing the chair. 'As you can imagine, my lower back and shoulders were in serious need of some deep-tissue therapy.' Al Murillo You can choose from one of their preset massages: Comfort, Stretch, Shoulders and Back, Back and Waist, or our go-to favorite, the Relax massage. If you prefer a more customized experience, the manual setting provides you with more control over roller isolation, air compression, and massage techniques. You can choose from Kneading, Rolling, Tapping, Knocking, and of course, Shiatsu. 'As someone who has never been too keen on massages, much less one not performed by an actual human, I didn't quite know what to expect when I first sat into the Relaxe massage chair,' Murillo shared. 'Luckily, the chair comes equipped with an LCD remote control that shows exactly where the rollers are placed throughout the chair. If you're a bit sensitive to pressure like I am, you are able to adjust the intensity, heat, and speed levels to better suit your comfort level.' Dimensions: 61.5 to 69.5″ (L) x 30″ (W) x 33 to 44.5″ (H) Best Budget: AYJOIR Zero Gravity Massage Chair Amazon Pros: Less than $350 Sleek and modern design Comes with intuitive controls, like a full-body air compression massage Cons: Limited deep tissue massage features, though not a dealbreaker If you've ever dreamed of sinking into a high-tech massage chair without your wallet screaming in protest, meet your new best friend: the AYJOIR Zero Gravity Massage Chair. This thing punches way above its price tag, offering features that usually come with a luxury-level bill. Let's start with the star of the show, the zero gravity mode. One button press and you're reclining like the pressure is off your spine, your stress melting faster than ice cream in July. It's a total game-changer for anyone who deals with back pain, stress or just wants to feel like royalty for 30 minutes a day. The AYJOIR doesn't stop at space-age reclining. It's loaded with full-body air compression massage. Yes: shoulders, arms, hips, calves and even your tired, aching feet. With adjustable intensity levels, it's perfect whether you want a gentle unwind or a firm 'get those knots out' session. Oh, and speaking of your feet: the roller foot massage might just be the unsung hero of this chair. After a day standing, it feels like a personal spa wrapped in tech magic. For a budget chair, this thing is absolutely stacked. And the fun extras? AYJOIR delivers. Bluetooth speakers let you zone out to your favorite playlists or podcasts while you're being massaged into a puddle of relaxation. There's even a phone holder and mood lighting because, well, why not? It's the kind of thoughtful design you'd expect from a premium chair, not something at this price point. If you're after a wallet-friendly massage chair that doesn't cut corners on comfort or cool features, the AYJOIR Zero Gravity Massage Chair is hands-down one of the smartest buys of 2025. Dimensions: 51.6″ (L) x 28.5″ (W) x 33 to 39.4″ (H) Best Full Body: Human Touch Perfect Chair PC-350 Classic Power Relaxe Pros: Ergonomic zero gravity recline Premium materials Chic design Cons: Higher price point The Human Touch Perfect Chair PC-350 Classic Power is your VIP pass to a full-body relaxation sesh. Imagine this: with one tap, the chair glides you into a zero gravity position so smooth, it's like your body just whispered, 'thank you.' Legs up, stress down — this is the sweet spot where your spine chills, your mind melts, and you briefly forget what responsibilities are. NASA-level comfort in your living room? Yes, please. Now let's talk looks, because this chair performs with style. With its hand-carved wood base and buttery-soft leather, the PC-350 gives serious 'James Bond in a spa' vibes. It's sleek, solid and fancy enough to make your other furniture feel underdressed. Plus, it's built to last, so whether you're 5'4″ or 6'5″, this chair has your back (literally) with smooth reclining power and superhero-level support. But the real magic? That's in the details. The head pillow hugs your noggin just right, the recline is smoother than jazz, and the whole experience makes Netflix marathons feel like full-on luxury retreats. Soon enough, you'll turn your living room into the coziest, chillest, most envy-inducing corner of the universe. The PC-350 convinces you that you deserve to be spoiled daily. Dimensions: 46″ (L) x 32″ (W) x 46″ (H) Other brands to consider: BestMassage: Delivers budget-friendly chairs with surprisingly powerful massage features for everyday stress relief. Delivers budget-friendly chairs with surprisingly powerful massage features for everyday stress relief. iRest: Focuses on ergonomic comfort and smart features that adapt to your body's needs for a tailored massage experience. Focuses on ergonomic comfort and smart features that adapt to your body's needs for a tailored massage experience. La-Z-Boy: Famous for legendary recliners, they bring their signature comfort and craftsmanship into the massage chair world with cozy, supportive designs. For over 200 years, the New York Post has been America's go-to source for bold news, engaging stories, in-depth reporting, and now, insightful shopping guidance. We're not just thorough reporters – we sift through mountains of information, test and compare products, and consult experts on any topics we aren't already schooled specialists in to deliver useful, realistic product recommendations based on our extensive and hands-on analysis. Here at The Post, we're known for being brutally honest – we clearly label partnership content, and whether we receive anything from affiliate links, so you always know where we stand. We routinely update content to reflect current research and expert advice, provide context (and wit) and ensure our links work. Please note that deals can expire, and all prices are subject to change. Looking for a headline-worthy haul? Keep shopping Post Wanted.


CNN
3 days ago
- Health
- CNN
The best massage chairs for at-home use, according to massage therapists
Massage chair quick picks Space-saving massage chair: Human Touch WholeBody 5.1 Massage Chair Massage chair with a touch screen: MassaMax 4D Massage Chair Editor-loved massage chair: Inner Balance Jin 2.0 Massage ChairSelf-care looks different for everyone, but for some, taking care of their body and mental health involves unwinding with a massage. While a massage chair can't replace a professional massage session, it's a close second for those looking to ramp up their at-home wellness routine and relax from the comfort of their home. We know that buying a big-ticket item like a massage chair can be daunting, which is why we consulted experts and tried a couple of chairs ourselves. Read on to for some of the expert- and editor-approved picks we curated so you can bring the spa home with confidence. Best Choice Products Modern Linen Massage Chair If you're looking for a heated massage chair under $500, Carrie Riley, a licensed massage therapist, lymphatic drainage specialist and the owner of Cincinnati Massage for Mental Health, recommends this one, which features three massage modes to target your back, thighs, lower legs and lumbar area. 'The power-lift mechanism makes it particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility concerns, while the built-in conveniences like cup holders and USB ports support extended relaxation sessions,' she said. The chair is also available in eight mostly neutral colors to work with the rest of your decor. MeitFith 4D Massage Chair Marta Hanrahan, a registered massage therapist, clinical director at Myosense Wellness and mentor with the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario, recommends this massage chair from MeitFith. 'With a wide range of massage techniques and full-body airbag coverage, it's ideal for those seeking a thorough massage experience,' she said. The massage chair has 20 auto-massage modes, including Thai massage, voice control, three rows of foot rollers and 3D surround sound. It also allows you to save up to five different profiles, making it a great option for those who live in larger households. Inner Balance Jin 2.0 SL Track Massage Chair I tried out the Inner Balance Jin 2.0 Massage Chair in-store and easily could have sat in this chair all day. It delivers a relaxing full-body massage experience featuring four massage types: compression, kneading, rolling and tapping. Like the other options on this list, it features a zero-gravity position (this is when the spine is placed in a neutral position), foot rollers, a heat function and Bluetooth speakers. It also has an easy-to-use controller (which I really appreciated), so you can spend less time fussing with the settings and more time enjoying the massage. Human Touch WholeBody 5.1 Massage Chair For those wanting a space-saving chair that delivers professional-level massages, Carrie Riley recommends the Human Touch WholeBody 5.1 Massage Chair. Featuring three auto-massage programs, a swivel base and a retractable ottoman, this massage chair can accommodate up to 285 pounds. It also features the brand's proprietary FlexGlide technology, which produces relaxing sensations that mimic the feeling of a warm oil massage. 'Its sleek aesthetic integrates beautifully into various home environments without overwhelming the space,' she said. Titan Jupiter LE Premium Massage Chair The Titan Jupiter LE Premium Massage Chair can respond to voice prompts and has Carrie Riley's stamp of approval. 'For a more comprehensive therapeutic experience, this advanced chair features 3D massage mechanisms, zero-gravity positioning and full-body air compression that excellently supports lymphatic circulation,' she said. Complete with Bluetooth speakers and a heat function, this massage chair has an easy-to-use touchscreen tablet that allows you to select from different massage programs and an extendable footrest for accommodating different heights. IBooMas SL Track Massage Chair This zero-gravity massage chair is another of Hanrahan's recommendations. It features 12 automatic-massage modes, back and leg heating and airbags to compress the shoulders, arms, legs, feet and ankles. It also has voice control and a built-in USB port, so you can charge your devices. Infinity Evo Max 4D Massage Chair Brooke Riley, a licensed massage therapist with nearly two decades of experience and director of learning and development for Massage Heights, recommends this splurgier option that's made to mimic a real massage therapist. "This chair delivers an elevated blend of 4D technology and zero-gravity positioning to create a deeply immersive massage," she said. "The foot reflexology and lumbar heat functions make it a great option for total-body recovery.' Synca Circ 3 Massage Chair This massage chair from Synca is another chair I tested in-store. It's a great option for those looking for a more comprehensive massage experience. Its size also makes it a great addition to smaller spaces. I'm 5 feet, 5 inches, and this massage chair worked perfectly for my height, but those significantly taller than me may find it too small. It has a built-in controller, eight auto courses and even integrated speakers and ambient lighting to set a relaxing mood. MassaMax 4D Massage Chair If you're looking for an ultra-sleek massage chair that has a massage track that extends from the neck to the thighs, Hanrahan recommends this one from MassaMax. 'The deep yoga-style stretching and intelligent features make it suitable for users looking to improve flexibility and relaxation,' she said. This chair has a zero-gravity position, foot rollers, voice control, Bluetooth speakers and a heat function. It also has airbags that can apply three levels of pressure. Brookstone Mach IX Massage Chair 'This is a more budget-conscious choice that doesn't completely sacrifice the tech features,' Brooke Riley said. 'It includes a Bluetooth sound system, app-based control and full-body air-compression massage, making it both accessible and impressive for everyday wellness.' This Alexa-compatible massage chair features 18 auto programs, LED lights and wireless charging. It also only requires 1-inch of space behind the backrest, thanks to its ability to slide forward as it reclines, making the Mach IX a good option for tighter spaces. Plus, it's able to recline into two zero-gravity positions to help alleviate back pain. Comfort and customization should be top of mind when you're shopping for massage chairs. That's why, for Carrie Riley, picking one that can properly accommodate your body and support your wellness goals is so important. 'Look for chairs that can adjust to your height and body type, with customizable intensity settings, since everyone's pressure tolerance and preferences differ significantly,' she said. Hanrahan also said to consider the massage chair's track type and its roller mechanism. For those wanting a chair that can help with relief from the neck to the lower back, Hanrahan recommends looking for a massage chair with an S track, which follows the natural curve of the spine. On the other hand, a massage chair with an L track, which extends from the neck to the hamstrings, is 'ideal for low-back and sciatic-nerve support.' If you're looking for something that combines the two, consider a massage chair with an SL track. When it comes to the roller mechanism, there are three options, according to Hanrahan. A massage chair with a 2D roller mechanism has rollers that move up and down and side to side, while a chair with a 3D roller mechanism has rollers that push in and out. If you're looking for speed and rhythm variation (which feels most like a massage performed by a person), you'll want to opt for a 4D roller mechanism. 'For deep-tissue and therapeutic work, 3D or 4D is best,' she said. Both experts also recommend looking for a heat function, which Hanrahan notes can be beneficial for those dealing with chronic injuries, and zero-gravity positioning, which enhances relaxation and improves circulation by positioning 'the body in a reclined state to reduce pressure on the spine and joints,' she said. If you want to take things a step further, they also suggest looking for chairs that have air compression systems. 'Chairs with air compression systems are especially beneficial for lymphatic drainage, helping reduce inflammation and supporting your body's natural detoxification processes,' Riley said. The following FAQs have been answered by massage therapist Carrie Riley and include reporting by associate editor Rachel Dennis. How can you target specific muscles with a massage chair? How can you target specific muscles with a massage chair? Many massage chairs feature preset programs that target specific areas of the body and the muscles there. As mentioned earlier, the type of track (S track, L track or SL track) determines which areas of the body the massage chair can reach. Other features, such as foot and calf rollers, help target muscles in the legs and feet, while the inflatable airbags that are part of a chair's air-compression system apply pressure to areas like the shoulders, hips and arms. What are the benefits of using a massage chair? What are the benefits of using a massage chair? According to Carrie Riley, regular use of a massage chair offers both physical and mental health benefits. 'Physically, consistent sessions improve circulation, support lymphatic drainage to reduce inflammation and fluid retention, and alleviate chronic muscle tension,' she said. 'From a mental health perspective, massage chairs activate the parasympathetic nervous system, effectively lowering cortisol levels while promoting endorphin release. This makes them powerful tools for stress management and emotional regulation, crucial components of overall wellness.' What is the best way to clean a massage chair? What is the best way to clean a massage chair? The best way to clean a massage chair depends on the type of material it's made of. Ultimately, you should refer to the manufacturer's care instructions to ensure you clean the massage chair correctly. For this article, we consulted the following experts to gain their professional insights. Marta Hanrahan, registered massage therapist, clinical director at Myosense Wellness and mentor with the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario Brooke Riley, licensed massage therapist and director of learning and development for Massage Heights Carrie Riley, licensed massage therapist, lymphatic drainage specialist and owner of Cincinnati Massage for Mental Health CNN Underscored has a team of skilled writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when applicable to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. For this story, associate editor Rachel Dennis interviewed three massage therapists to get their insights on what to look for when shopping for massage chairs and their recommendations.


CNN
3 days ago
- Health
- CNN
The best massage chairs for at-home use, according to massage therapists
Massage chair quick picks Space-saving massage chair: Human Touch WholeBody 5.1 Massage Chair Massage chair with a touch screen: MassaMax 4D Massage Chair Editor-loved massage chair: Inner Balance Jin 2.0 Massage ChairSelf-care looks different for everyone, but for some, taking care of their body and mental health involves unwinding with a massage. While a massage chair can't replace a professional massage session, it's a close second for those looking to ramp up their at-home wellness routine and relax from the comfort of their home. We know that buying a big-ticket item like a massage chair can be daunting, which is why we consulted experts and tried a couple of chairs ourselves. Read on to for some of the expert- and editor-approved picks we curated so you can bring the spa home with confidence. Best Choice Products Modern Linen Massage Chair If you're looking for a heated massage chair under $500, Carrie Riley, a licensed massage therapist, lymphatic drainage specialist and the owner of Cincinnati Massage for Mental Health, recommends this one, which features three massage modes to target your back, thighs, lower legs and lumbar area. 'The power-lift mechanism makes it particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility concerns, while the built-in conveniences like cup holders and USB ports support extended relaxation sessions,' she said. The chair is also available in eight mostly neutral colors to work with the rest of your decor. MeitFith 4D Massage Chair Marta Hanrahan, a registered massage therapist, clinical director at Myosense Wellness and mentor with the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario, recommends this massage chair from MeitFith. 'With a wide range of massage techniques and full-body airbag coverage, it's ideal for those seeking a thorough massage experience,' she said. The massage chair has 20 auto-massage modes, including Thai massage, voice control, three rows of foot rollers and 3D surround sound. It also allows you to save up to five different profiles, making it a great option for those who live in larger households. Inner Balance Jin 2.0 SL Track Massage Chair I tried out the Inner Balance Jin 2.0 Massage Chair in-store and easily could have sat in this chair all day. It delivers a relaxing full-body massage experience featuring four massage types: compression, kneading, rolling and tapping. Like the other options on this list, it features a zero-gravity position (this is when the spine is placed in a neutral position), foot rollers, a heat function and Bluetooth speakers. It also has an easy-to-use controller (which I really appreciated), so you can spend less time fussing with the settings and more time enjoying the massage. Human Touch WholeBody 5.1 Massage Chair For those wanting a space-saving chair that delivers professional-level massages, Carrie Riley recommends the Human Touch WholeBody 5.1 Massage Chair. Featuring three auto-massage programs, a swivel base and a retractable ottoman, this massage chair can accommodate up to 285 pounds. It also features the brand's proprietary FlexGlide technology, which produces relaxing sensations that mimic the feeling of a warm oil massage. 'Its sleek aesthetic integrates beautifully into various home environments without overwhelming the space,' she said. Titan Jupiter LE Premium Massage Chair The Titan Jupiter LE Premium Massage Chair can respond to voice prompts and has Carrie Riley's stamp of approval. 'For a more comprehensive therapeutic experience, this advanced chair features 3D massage mechanisms, zero-gravity positioning and full-body air compression that excellently supports lymphatic circulation,' she said. Complete with Bluetooth speakers and a heat function, this massage chair has an easy-to-use touchscreen tablet that allows you to select from different massage programs and an extendable footrest for accommodating different heights. IBooMas SL Track Massage Chair This zero-gravity massage chair is another of Hanrahan's recommendations. It features 12 automatic-massage modes, back and leg heating and airbags to compress the shoulders, arms, legs, feet and ankles. It also has voice control and a built-in USB port, so you can charge your devices. Infinity Evo Max 4D Massage Chair Brooke Riley, a licensed massage therapist with nearly two decades of experience and director of learning and development for Massage Heights, recommends this splurgier option that's made to mimic a real massage therapist. "This chair delivers an elevated blend of 4D technology and zero-gravity positioning to create a deeply immersive massage," she said. "The foot reflexology and lumbar heat functions make it a great option for total-body recovery.' Synca Circ 3 Massage Chair This massage chair from Synca is another chair I tested in-store. It's a great option for those looking for a more comprehensive massage experience. Its size also makes it a great addition to smaller spaces. I'm 5 feet, 5 inches, and this massage chair worked perfectly for my height, but those significantly taller than me may find it too small. It has a built-in controller, eight auto courses and even integrated speakers and ambient lighting to set a relaxing mood. MassaMax 4D Massage Chair If you're looking for an ultra-sleek massage chair that has a massage track that extends from the neck to the thighs, Hanrahan recommends this one from MassaMax. 'The deep yoga-style stretching and intelligent features make it suitable for users looking to improve flexibility and relaxation,' she said. This chair has a zero-gravity position, foot rollers, voice control, Bluetooth speakers and a heat function. It also has airbags that can apply three levels of pressure. Brookstone Mach IX Massage Chair 'This is a more budget-conscious choice that doesn't completely sacrifice the tech features,' Brooke Riley said. 'It includes a Bluetooth sound system, app-based control and full-body air-compression massage, making it both accessible and impressive for everyday wellness.' This Alexa-compatible massage chair features 18 auto programs, LED lights and wireless charging. It also only requires 1-inch of space behind the backrest, thanks to its ability to slide forward as it reclines, making the Mach IX a good option for tighter spaces. Plus, it's able to recline into two zero-gravity positions to help alleviate back pain. Comfort and customization should be top of mind when you're shopping for massage chairs. That's why, for Carrie Riley, picking one that can properly accommodate your body and support your wellness goals is so important. 'Look for chairs that can adjust to your height and body type, with customizable intensity settings, since everyone's pressure tolerance and preferences differ significantly,' she said. Hanrahan also said to consider the massage chair's track type and its roller mechanism. For those wanting a chair that can help with relief from the neck to the lower back, Hanrahan recommends looking for a massage chair with an S track, which follows the natural curve of the spine. On the other hand, a massage chair with an L track, which extends from the neck to the hamstrings, is 'ideal for low-back and sciatic-nerve support.' If you're looking for something that combines the two, consider a massage chair with an SL track. When it comes to the roller mechanism, there are three options, according to Hanrahan. A massage chair with a 2D roller mechanism has rollers that move up and down and side to side, while a chair with a 3D roller mechanism has rollers that push in and out. If you're looking for speed and rhythm variation (which feels most like a massage performed by a person), you'll want to opt for a 4D roller mechanism. 'For deep-tissue and therapeutic work, 3D or 4D is best,' she said. Both experts also recommend looking for a heat function, which Hanrahan notes can be beneficial for those dealing with chronic injuries, and zero-gravity positioning, which enhances relaxation and improves circulation by positioning 'the body in a reclined state to reduce pressure on the spine and joints,' she said. If you want to take things a step further, they also suggest looking for chairs that have air compression systems. 'Chairs with air compression systems are especially beneficial for lymphatic drainage, helping reduce inflammation and supporting your body's natural detoxification processes,' Riley said. The following FAQs have been answered by massage therapist Carrie Riley and include reporting by associate editor Rachel Dennis. How can you target specific muscles with a massage chair? How can you target specific muscles with a massage chair? Many massage chairs feature preset programs that target specific areas of the body and the muscles there. As mentioned earlier, the type of track (S track, L track or SL track) determines which areas of the body the massage chair can reach. Other features, such as foot and calf rollers, help target muscles in the legs and feet, while the inflatable airbags that are part of a chair's air-compression system apply pressure to areas like the shoulders, hips and arms. What are the benefits of using a massage chair? What are the benefits of using a massage chair? According to Carrie Riley, regular use of a massage chair offers both physical and mental health benefits. 'Physically, consistent sessions improve circulation, support lymphatic drainage to reduce inflammation and fluid retention, and alleviate chronic muscle tension,' she said. 'From a mental health perspective, massage chairs activate the parasympathetic nervous system, effectively lowering cortisol levels while promoting endorphin release. This makes them powerful tools for stress management and emotional regulation, crucial components of overall wellness.' What is the best way to clean a massage chair? What is the best way to clean a massage chair? The best way to clean a massage chair depends on the type of material it's made of. Ultimately, you should refer to the manufacturer's care instructions to ensure you clean the massage chair correctly. For this article, we consulted the following experts to gain their professional insights. Marta Hanrahan, registered massage therapist, clinical director at Myosense Wellness and mentor with the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario Brooke Riley, licensed massage therapist and director of learning and development for Massage Heights Carrie Riley, licensed massage therapist, lymphatic drainage specialist and owner of Cincinnati Massage for Mental Health CNN Underscored has a team of skilled writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when applicable to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item. For this story, associate editor Rachel Dennis interviewed three massage therapists to get their insights on what to look for when shopping for massage chairs and their recommendations.


Time Business News
13-06-2025
- Business
- Time Business News
3 Ways Having a Voice Call Center Helps Assist Customers
Providing a dedicated and trained team to handle inquiries, resolving issues, and offering support through phone calls are just three ways a voice call center assists customers. When taken as a whole, this helps improve customer satisfaction and loyalty by ensuring faster response times, proactive engagement, and personalized support. For many industries, excellent customer experience remains a key differentiator, and phone support continues to play a vital role in that. Many customers still prefer reaching out to customer care over the phone, even though the popularity of phone support is slowing among the young. The bottom line is that even in the age of social media, email, and chatbots, customers still appreciate the human connection, empathy, and immediacy that only a real conversation with a human can provide. The following represent the three major benefits a voice call center brings to the customer experience. For those old enough to remember, 80s sensation Rick Springfield sang about it in his hit 'Human Touch' – there's no getting around the fact that, as members of the human race, we need that person-to-person connection. It's easy to get lost in a sea of canned chatbot responses or frustratingly incomplete FAQs, and this is precisely why call centers continue to play a crucial role in customer service…even in today's world of AI. In fact, research found that 77% of customers expect to be able to interact with a human as soon as contact is made with a business. Indeed, speaking to an agent not only helps customers feel supported, but it can sometimes help de-escalate situations while retaining customers. Customers like speaking to an actual person because it helps them feel heard and that their challenges and frustrations are being dealt with by someone who can actually assist in getting them fixed. In a world where not all customer inquiries are alike, the key to exceptional customer service is being able to quickly, in an ideal world, automatically identify the issue and assign callers to the right queue. Call centers equipped with interactive voice response (IVR), intelligent call routing, integrated knowledge bases, and real-time reporting ensure that every customer is quickly connected to the right agent. In this scenario, agents can access customer preferences, histories, and previous support tickets instantaneously, yielding quicker, more personalized resolutions. By integrating with CRM systems, modern outbound call centers use real-time call analytics to personalize conversations, identify up-sell and cross-sell opportunities, and increase deal closure rates. Increased sales lead to streamlined operations, which are crucial in a call center to avoid long queues and frustrated customers; automation tools such as skill-based call routing, AI-powered chatbots, and auto-attendants eliminate repetitive tasks, freeing agents to handle more high-priority or complex issues. Phone support is more than just answering calls – it's about creating memorable experiences that drive growth and loyalty. The benefits of a voice call center are multi-faceted, given the fact that by implementing modern call centers, businesses can scale operations flexibly to meet evolving demands, make smarter decisions via real-time data, and deliver faster, more personalized service. TIME BUSINESS NEWS


Business Standard
10-06-2025
- Business
- Business Standard
IIHM Receives National Honour for 'Excellence in Global Hospitality Education' from Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan
PRNewswire New Delhi [India], June 10: The International Institute of Hotel Management (IIHM) has added another remarkable milestone to its legacy. At the ABP Smart Education Summit 2025 held in New Delhi, IIHM was presented with the 'Excellence in Global Hospitality Education' award by Union Education Minister Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, recognising the institute's pioneering contribution to global-standard hospitality education and transformative technological integration. During the ceremony, Minister Pradhan lauded IIHM for redefining hospitality education in India by "building global pathways from Indian classrooms," and credited the institution with contributing to India's growing soft power in service leadership and innovation. The award was received by senior executives of IIHM New Delhi on behalf of Dr Suborno Bose, Chairman of IIHM, entrepreneur, visionary educationist, and globally recognised AI evangelist in the hospitality domain. Reacting to the conferring of this award Dr Bose said, "This recognition is a testament to IIHM's vision of inclusive, future-forward education that fuses tradition with technological intelligence. It strengthens our resolve to position India as the global epicentre of hospitality learning." AI + Hospitality: A Revolution Led by India Dr Bose has been at the forefront of driving the global conversation on Artificial Intelligence in hospitality and tourism. In 2024, his groundbreaking book, 'Harmonizing Human Touch and AI in Tourism & Hospitality,' was launched by Union Minister for Tourism, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, at the Bharat 24 Summit in Goa. Minister Shekhawat saw the book as a visionary roadmap that places India on the frontlines of intelligent hospitality and credited it for "offering a model for the ethical and strategic integration of AI in a people-first industry." The book has since become a reference point for both academic institutions and hospitality enterprises exploring AI in operations, personalisation, guest experience, and workforce transformation. Global Hospitality Joins Hands: 60 Countries Sign the Knowledge Sharing Declaration In an unprecedented global initiative, IIHM led the creation and signing of the Global Knowledge Sharing Declaration on AI in Hospitality Education, bringing together educational institutions, thought leaders, and policymakers from over 60 countries. This declaration envisions a collaborative global framework to share curricula, research, practices, and AI innovations that can uplift hospitality education equitably across developed and developing economies. It promotes chain-agnostic, brand-neutral learning with a focus on inclusivity, accessibility, and AI literacy for students and professionals alike. The initiative underscores IIHM's status as a convening power in global hospitality education, capable of bridging continents through technology, pedagogy, and purpose. NamAIste - The World's First Hospitality GPT is Made in India In February 2025, Dr Bose and IIHM made headlines globally with the launch of NamAIste - IIHM Hospitality GPT, the world's first generative AI-powered knowledge engine for the hospitality industry. Unveiled at the IIHM Young Chef Olympiad in Goa before delegates from 50+ countries, the platform was developed in collaboration with Entiovi Technologies, a leading deep-tech solutions provider. NamAIste is India's first domain-specific Large Language Model (LLM) designed exclusively for hospitality operations, learning, research, and innovation. Dr Bose has called NamAIste "India's gift to the global hospitality world - made in India, made for the world." This latest national recognition by the Union Education Ministry further strengthens IIHM's mission to shape the next generation of global hospitality leaders through transformative education, global collaboration, and ethical AI innovation. For media enquiries, please contact: Sujay Gupta Group Director - Communications & Media, IIHM +91 9923057937 Photo: Logo: