Buzz
Mental and physical stress can have a significant impact on the body, triggering symptoms like rapid heartbeats and shortness of breath, which are often followed by relaxation as stress subsides. Short bursts of tension and relief are natural, and the fight or flight response can literally save lives in some circumstances. However, prolonged stress can be harmful and, if left unaddressed, may lead to serious conditions such as depression, hypertension, and heart disease.
While treatments such as therapy and meditation are highly recommended, there are more immediate solutions you can use in times of stress—like toys. A study conducted by the Polytechnic Institute of New York University, published in The Atlantic, revealed that fiddling with small toys can effectively reduce stress, improve productivity, and even enhance memory. Below are some recommendations to help you find your calm again.
Stress relievers like stress balls
Stress balls are a well-known tool for easing workplace tension, and studies suggest they may actually promote better health. Stress causes physical tension in the body that requires release. As stress expert Dr. David Posen shared with the Huffington Post, "the benefit of squeezing [a stress ball] is that it releases some kind of energy—it also induces you to relax." Squeezing a stress ball can also help relieve arthritis and strengthen the muscles in the wrists and hands.
Molding toys
Play-Doh and putty
Play-Doh helps alleviate stress in a similar way to a stress ball—the release of tension your muscles experience while shaping the dough can ease the physical symptoms of stress and enhance focus. Recognizing Play-Doh's value as a stress reliever, companies have created special putties designed for this purpose. For example, Pinch Me therapy dough combines essential oils with the putty to also engage the sense of smell in your stress-relieving activity.
Magnetic spheres
A collection of small magnetic balls that, when connected, can be shaped into various forms and configurations. These can act as an unexpected stress reliever because they demand focus and attention while interacting with the toy. The process of shaping them diverts your mind from stress and engages you in a hands-on task. (However, be cautious around children and pets—they are hazardous if ingested, and your goal is to reduce stress, not add danger.)
Puzzle toys
Like sculpting toys, puzzle-based stress relievers engage your mind, helping you free yourself from anxious thoughts while concentrating on the challenge before you.
Mini Rubik’s Cubes
Rubik’s Cubes were introduced as toys in 1980, but they also provide significant stress-relief. As you twist and turn the small cubes to align the colors on each side, your mind stays occupied, and your fingers are kept engaged. A mini, keychain-sized version lets you manage stress wherever you are.
Infinity Cubes
Another cube-shaped stress toy, the infinity cube is made up of interlocking pieces that can be rearranged to form a cube. The aim is not to reach a specific goal, but rather to move the pieces and create various shapes, helping to redirect a wandering mind through a simple, enjoyable activity.
Fidget fiddlers
Fidget spinners
Fidget spinners surged in popularity in 2017, gaining attention for their effectiveness in helping children with ADHD focus. This three-pronged toy spins between your fingers thanks to its weighted design. Unfortunately, it became a source of disruption for teachers and parents—leading to bans in many schools as they became more of a distraction for kids. However, they can still be a helpful tool for adults seeking a stress-relieving distraction at work.
Pipe cleaners
Pipe cleaners offer another creative outlet for stress relief, blending the soothing experience of sculpting with the calming effects of a fidget toy.
Acupressure massage rings
Acupressure massage rings apply gentle pressure to key points on the hands, helping to alleviate stress, improve focus, and boost circulation—while also providing a fun, interactive experience.
Chewy toys
Nibbling on your nails or chewing on pens and erasers is a common response to stress and anxiety, and breaking these habits can be difficult. Luckily, there are items available to help reduce your reliance on these behaviors or, at the very least, shield your cuticles and teeth from harm.
Rubber necklace
If you've ever found yourself sucking on your necklace or chewing on the pendant of a chain, a chew necklace could be the solution to prevent tooth damage or the ingestion of harmful metals. Made of chewable rubber, the necklace helps manage oral fixations safely.
Chewy eraser tip
These rubber caps that fit onto the ends of pens and pencils come in various shapes and sizes, letting you unconsciously chew without damaging your pens or ending up with bits of eraser in your mouth.
