Stress is a natural part of life. However, too much stress or the inability to manage the stressful challenges of day-to-day living can lead to serious health problems. Harmful stress levels are not always easy to recognize. Fortunately, you can learn to monitor the physical and emotional signs of stress so that you can calm yourself with relaxation techniques. Assessing your stress level before and after using stress balls helps you to take control of stress so that it does not take control of you.
Step 1
Find a quiet place away from noise and distraction. Take note of any stress symptoms you may be experiencing such as headache, muscle tension, heart palpitations, dizziness, restlessness, anxiety, worrying, anger, crying spells or forgetfulness.
Step 2
Measure your radial pulse by placing your index and middle finger at the wrist of your opposite hand near the base of your thumb. Press lightly on the artery with your fingertips and take a 60-second count of your heart rate using a clock or timer. Record your heart rate.
Step 3
Place the stress ball in the palm of your hand. Slowly squeeze and release the stress ball. Focus on the physical sensations of muscle tension and relaxation as you work with the stress ball.
Step 4
After a three-minute "workout" with the stress ball, switch to the other hand and repeat.
Step 5
After using the stress ball for a total of six minutes, measure your radial pulse again. Record your current heart rate. Review your original list of stress symptoms. Note any changes in the way you feel after your stress ball session.
Tips and Warnings
- If you have a blood pressure monitor for home use, measure your blood pressure before and after using the stress ball. For best results, practice using the stress ball daily as a tension reliever. Use play dough, modeling clay or silly putty if you do not have a stress ball.
Things You'll Need
- Clock or timer
- Blank paper or notepad
- Pencil or pen
