A Stress Ball or hand exercise ball is a squeezable toy, usually not more than 7 cm in diameter, which is squeezed in hand and manipulated by the fingers, ostensibly to relieve stress and muscle tension or to exercise the muscles of the hand.
We have put together this handy guide to the best stress balls for 2022. We will help you choose the perfect one for your needs, whether you are looking for something small and discreet to keep in your desk drawer or a giant ball that you can get a good grip on.
So, why wait? Let’s get started!
What is a Stress Ball?
A stress ball is a small, often spherical toy that is squeezed and manipulated by hand to alleviate stress. Stress balls are usually made of foam or rubber and filled with gel, sand, or other material. They come in various sizes, colors, and textures and can be purchased online or at many stores.
History of Stress Balls
The concept of a Stress Ball dates back to China, which made them out of nuts. It’s believed that the practice of using one’s fingers to rotate and maneuver nuts originated during the Han Dynasty (26-220 AD) as part of combat training. It helped improve focus and manual dexterity.
Today’s most Stress Balls are out of rubber or foam. Instead, they come in various shapes and sizes and with logos or other designs.
The first American Stress Ball was created in the 1980s by an American TV writer named Alex Carswell. After having a particularly stressful day at work, Carswell threw a marker across the room and broke a framed picture of his mother.
While this may not sound like the ideal way to relieve stress, it did give Carswell the idea to create a toy that people could squeeze and manipulate in their hands to help release tension. And so, the Stress Ball was born!
Features of Stress Balls
The features of a stress ball are its shape and size. Stress balls come in many forms; round or oval; flat surfaces, oblongs more like egg shapes; and disks as large as your hand.
Squeezable toys have proven scientifically to reduce tension levels regardless of whether we use them actively by engaging our muscles.
Types of Stress Balls
The most widely used Stress Ball is as follows:
- Splat balls
- Koosh balls
- Squeeze balls
- Chinese health balls
- Talking stress balls
- Gel balls
- Foam balls
- Strength balls
- Water balls
- Porcupine balls
- Puffer balls
What’s inside a Stress Ball?
The usual material inside the stress balls was foam or gel. In addition, the balls are covered with a rubber coating the make sure the ball will not leak or break with the constant squeezing and stretching that comes with frequent usage.
Benefits of a Stress Ball
- Help to relieve physical tension and pain
- Improve grip strength and dexterity
- Promote blood circulation
- Enhance fine motor skills
- Help to calm and focus the mind
- Provide a distraction from stressors
- Encourage positive thinking and reduce anxiety
- Improve hand-eye coordination
- Promote a sense of well-being
- Relieve boredom and improve fidgeting habits
Best essential Stress Ball exercises
Here are a few exercises you can do with your stress ball to help reduce stress and improve your agility:
- Squeeze the ball as hard as you can for 30 seconds, then release. Repeat ten times.
- Press the ball into the palm of your hand and roll it around. Repeat ten times.
- Hold the ball in one hand and use the other hand to stretch it out slowly. Repeat ten times.
- Place the ball under your foot and press down, then release. Repeat ten times.
- Balance the ball on different body parts, like your forehead or nose. Start with 10 seconds and work your way up to 1 minute.
These are just a few ideas to get you started. Get creative and come up with your stress-busting exercises!
How to maintain a Stress Ball?
Stress balls are relatively low-maintenance. However, there are a few things you can do to extend their lifespan and keep them looking and feeling their best:
- 1. Store your stress ball in a cool, dry place when you’re not using it.
- If your stress ball gets dirty, you can clean it with mild soap and water. Avoid using harsh cleaning products, as they can damage the ball.
- If your stress ball starts to leak, you can try sealing it with super glue or another adhesive.
With a bit of care, your stress ball can provide years of relief from stress and anxiety. So don’t be afraid to squeeze away!
Best Stress Balls to Purchase
When looking for a stress ball, there are a few factors you’ll want to keep in mind, such as size, firmness, material, and price. With so many different options:
- Best Stress Ball for Anxiety: Serenity Stress Ball
- Best Stress Ball for Kids: Tangle Jr. Fidget Toy
- Best Stress Ball for Office Work: Inflatable Tube Man
- Best Stress Ball for Physical therapy: Thera-Band Exercise Ball
- Best Stress Ball for Relieving Tension: Kong Classic Dog Toy
Conclusion
Stress balls are a great way to relieve tension and improve circulation. In addition to their physical benefits, stress balls can also provide a mental distraction from whatever is causing you stress. Focusing on squeezing a stress ball can help you take your mind off your problems and relax. If you’re looking for a way to reduce stress in your life, consider adding some stress balls to your home gym. Not only will they help you feel better physically, but they may also help you feel more relaxed mentally. Have you tried using stress balls to relieve tension? What did you think?
