Stress balls are an inexpensive, easy-to-use tool to combat stress, increase focus and strengthen the hands. While there is a lack of research on stress balls, studies show the effectiveness of hand "fidgets" for children and adults with attention and behavioral issues.
Types
Stress balls come in many shapes and sizes, but most are round and slightly smaller than a tennis ball to easily fit inside the hand. You can even make your own stress ball using a balloon and some baking flour. Businesses frequently use imprinted stress balls with their logos as marketing tools. The consistency of stress balls is generally soft and squishy to allow for the average strength hand to squeeze them. Other items such as koosh balls may be used in the same manner as stress balls.
Theories
Since there is no research specifically on stress balls, their use is based on several theories. For anxiety and depression, stress balls can theoretically help with symptoms of stress and worry. Stress balls employ a basic technique called progressive muscle relaxation. As the user squeezes the ball and contracts the muscles, the blood flow increases to the hand. Releasing the squeeze further relaxes the hand, and, according to StressFocus.com, some believe it may also relax the person.
Uses for Enhancing Attention
For a person who has difficulty focusing, stress balls can provide the needed movement or sensory input to allow the brain to better listen and pay attention. Teachers may find it beneficial to give children a stress ball as they sit for story time or circle time. Adults who naturally fidget during a work meeting can use stress balls as both stress relievers and focus tools. In their book "Fidget to Focus: Outwit Your Boredom," licensed psychologist Roland Rotz, Ph.D. and ADD coach Sarah D. Wright, M.S. discuss the benefits and uses of fidgets for people with Attention Deficit Disorder.
Health Benefits
Stress balls provide resistance to the fingers and therefore are a simple effective exercise for the hands. People with arthritis, muscle weakness related to stroke, or carpal tunnel syndrome may benefit from hand-strengthening exercises. To use a stress ball for exercise, do between 10 to 20 repetitions, depending on baseline strength. You can repeat this several times per day. Stress balls in various shapes can provide more a more comfortable grip and address pinching strength as well.
Stress balls may be used for a variety of other issues, one being improvement of overall health. Chinese stress balls are thought to affect acupressure points, for example. Stress balls can also be used in meditation, as they provide a focal point for the mind.
Precaution
The primary danger of using a stress ball is overuse. Overuse injuries can occur in the hands and wrist from excessive contraction of the muscles. Therefore, it is recommended that you use stress balls in moderation. Also, some stress balls may contain chemicals or unsafe materials and so should be used with caution by children.
References
- "Young Children's Behavior"; L. Porter; 2008
- "Journal of Occupational Therapy, Schools, and Early Intervention"; A Systematic Consultative Approach to Behavior Management in Head Start; Stacey Reynolds; 2008
- StressFocus.com: Stress Balls Help in Diverting Concentration and Relieving Stress
- FidgettoFocus.com: "Fidget to Focus: Outwit Your Boredom"
