ByWALLA! HEALTH
Many people use them, but are they an effective product or just a pointless trend? Here’s what the experts have to say.
Life can sometimes be overwhelming, and there isn’t always time to stop for a deep breath or do calming exercises. In such situations, holding a small object that allows you to channel your tension or anxiety can be very helpful. That’s exactly why stress balls and spinners have become so popular – they offer a simple and discreet way to release nervous energy and achieve a sense of calm, whether at home, at work, or in public.
“Stress balls are tools for sensory and motor stimulation that can provide distraction, help with emotional regulation, and even improve concentration,” explained Keisha Sanders-Waldron, a licensed therapist, to Yahoo. “They provide an outlet for excess energy and redirect the brain. The repetitive motion of squeezing or spinning can activate the nervous system in a calming way – similar to deep breathing or rhythmic movements.”
What are the possible benefits of stress balls?
According to Dr. Anup Singh, a certified psychiatrist, these tools may ease symptoms of stress, anxiety, ADHD, and more. “They are sometimes used as self-soothing tools, especially for individuals on the autism spectrum, or as a way to reduce compulsive behaviors like hair pulling or nail biting – by offering an alternative action.”
However, there is no definitive scientific evidence that they truly relieve stress or anxiety – the evidence is mostly anecdotal and based on personal experiences and clinical observations.
Experts note two main advantages:
Self-regulation
The tools help regulate the nervous system by reducing physical symptoms such as restlessness. For people with ADHD, for example, they may help with external energy regulation, which can ease racing thoughts and emotions.
Grounding is a technique used to calm the nervous system and return to the present moment. The repetitive and predictable movements of the ball help divert attention from stressful thoughts and bring about calm.
