therapy

The 404 143: Where it's talking to you

Per usual, we push the envelope in the preshow today and it starts to leak into the beginning of today's episode, but we quickly (maybe not so quickly) seal it up and get into our story rundown. We criticize our sue-happy country and its propensity for stupid T-shirts, speak to the potential power of iPhone gaming, introduce a new S&M Barbie doll (therapy not included), and snap our way through this year's Emmy nominees. EPISODE 143 Download today's podcast

A spa to light up the entire body

People ascribe great healing powers to LED lamps and are willing to make some notable sacrifices to use them. But the Med Spa Clinic in England has taken the concept to its therapeutic extreme.

The "Oxy-LED Light Spa Capsule" isn't directed only at the face as are other products, instead spreading its magic wavelengths over the entire body. The reason: Not only is it an emotional enhancer, but the pricey full-body spa supposedly promotes weight loss when combined with other therapies by causing "intense physical stimulation," according to BornRich. With claims like that, it might … Read more

The 'SunSpa': Light therapy for the bipolar pet

Depression among household pets may be worse than originally believed.

We thought the issue was more isolated last month upon learning of the "Fauna Sauna"--its name doesn't exactly scream credibility--a device that uses radiant heat "to bring healing to your pet right in your home." But now it has competition in the "SunSpa," another product that claims to control mood swings by simulating sunlight "for a warm and soothing heaven for your pets," according to Luxurylaunches. We're not sure about that, but it does look considerably more comfy than … Read more

How to blow bubbles with an iPod

As people seek out all manner of gadget-powered therapy--even for their pets--there may be something much simpler available to soothe the soul. Such as a "Sound Bubbler."

This iPod dock's name pretty much says it all, as it releases bubbles in sync with the beat and rhythm of your tunes, according to Chip Chick. It even comes in three colors, though they have a long way to go before re-creating a true '60s atmosphere. Still, it's better than nothing if you're whiling away the time while chained to the desk and sure beats USB aromatherapy.… Read more

The multi-tasking therapy box

Of all the odd therapeutic lights we've seen--and there have been some doozies--this is one of the stranger-looking examples. We just can't imagine what could be so relaxing about something that looks like a cheap disco accessory.

But maybe the Korean-made LTK-200 "Therapy Station" makes up for its design with its features. The blue LEDs don't actually turn on until you've supposedly been lulled into a catatonic state by 24 soothing sounds that range from "concentration" to "therapy for depression," according to Technabob. Then the herbal aromatherapy kicks in, … Read more

'Xtensor' claims CrackBerry rehabilitation

We recognize that "BlackBerry Thumb" can be an all-too-real affliction but, seriously, if you need something like this therapeutic contraption you've really got to let it go. Literally.

The "Xtensor" claims to be "the first product on the market to perform with true bio-mechanically correctness and treats the direct cause of this pain." That may be so, but to us it looks like a bowling glove combined with those elastic bands that pitchers use for to exercise their rotator cuffs.

In any case, the makers of the Xtensor say it can help rehabilitate … Read more

Electrocute yourself for a better you

The Compex Sport is one of the scariest, but also most oddly compelling, devices I've ever tried.

The device sends electrical shocks, via electrodes attached to your body, to nerves. Your nerves then stimulate specific muscle groups. As a result, when you work out with the Compex, nearly 100 percent of the muscle fibers get into the act. Ordinarily, you might only use 50 percent, said Heiko Van Vliet, a European marketing manager for Compex and a coach/trainer who works with the CSC bicycling team and the Norwegian national skating team.

Thus, by using it, you can bring … Read more

Hello Kitty is taking over our keys too

Lest you think we've been exaggerating when warning that the evil Hello Kitty is permeating every aspect of our lives, consider this: the "Hello Kitty Static Electricity Key Holder" uncovered by Uber-Review.

Now why, pray tell, does the dreaded feline need to make an appearance on something as innocuous as a key cover that prevents electric shocks? The only explanation can be that its relentless drive toward world domination is beginning to invade our homes. It gets worse: This item is the unholy product of the power axis between the cursed cat and the insane inventors of Brando. … Read more

When depression is a better option

The solar-powered hat fan taught us how to survive the summer heat, but what about the winter doldrums? Enter the "Feel Bright Light" from Hollywood Gadgets. A set of LED bulbs affixed underneath the brim of a visor bathe your face in happy light to help ward off seasonal affective disorder, for a mere $200. Our take: We'd rather stay in a permanent funk.