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S tress balls, often shaped like a ball and made from polyurethane foam, offer a range of benefits, particularly in alleviating stress through squeezing or fidgeting. These benefits of stress balls make them not only effective for personal use but also popular as promotional products in giveaways. But are they the best choice for such events, and how efficient are they in fulfilling their role? This research paper aims to explore the various assumptions surrounding the purposes of stress balls, including their benefits and efficiency, especially as promotional products. We will begin by examining the origination of stress balls, followed by an analysis of several studies and articles on both their drawbacks and benefits. Finally, with the compiled information, we will assess if stress balls, as mental health giveaway items, continue to be effective promotional products in giveaways.
It is believed that stress balls originated from Baoding Balls in Ancient China. These traditional balls are meant to be rotated in one’s palm. With time and practice, the individual is meant to learn how to move the balls in their palm without having them touch. This process is meant to provide a calming effect by reducing stress and improving the brain by exercising the hand muscles (Mindworks Team, 2021). Similar to Baoding Balls, stress balls are intended to do the same. By squeezing and fidgeting with the ball, the nerves and muscles are stimulated, reinforcing strength. One of the significant benefits of stress balls is their ability to offer a variety of advantages to users. They are known for their efficacy in "reducing stress and anxiety, strengthening muscles, lowering blood pressure, improving concentration, enhancing sleep quality, and promoting emotional stability, among other benefits" (Brown Hill Surgery, 2021). To understand these benefits of stress balls more deeply, we will delve into various studies and articles to further investigate the efficiency of stress balls.
Stress balls are suggested to be good for hand muscle strength. There is no research regarding the benefits of stress balls for hand strength; however, we will look into two examples of conditions in which stress balls are encouraged and vice versa. An article centered on Carpal Tunnel Syndrome claims that the act of squeezing stress balls aggravates the symptoms of the condition (First Hand Medical, 2019). Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a condition in which tingling, numbness, and pain can occur in the hand and/or arm (Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 2022). To alleviate pain or discomfort, it is recommended to refrain from using too much force and to relax your grip. By understanding the symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and the function of stress balls, we can conclude that stress balls are not encouraged in this scenario. On the other hand, several articles claim that stress balls help arthritis symptoms. Arthritis is an inflammation of the joints which causes stiffness and pain as one age (Macon, 2021). To help treat arthritis, two out of many recommended treatments are physical therapy and regular exercise to strengthen the muscles around the affected joints. By understanding what is encouraged to help treat arthritis, we can conclude that stress balls could be of good use, potentially serving as beneficial mental health giveaway items for those seeking to manage joint discomfort and improve their overall well-being.
Exploring the psychological benefits of stress balls, several studies have been conducted focusing on their use in relation to attention and stress management. The first study examined the attention of sixth-grade learners while using stress balls (Stalvey & Brasell, 2006). Students tend to distract others in learning environments not just by talking with other students, but also by attending to their own needs through movement and short attention spans. After several weeks of investigation, the researchers observed a decrease in the frequency of distractions and an increase in attention, which in turn, improved the students’ attitude, attention, writing abilities, and peer interaction when using stress balls. This improvement was noted in all students, including those with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Interesting examples from their research showed data entries in which students were able to focus their attention on their work instead of engaging in distracting behaviors, such as nail-biting. However, the second study explored the attention of college students whilst using fidget spinners and stress balls. This research found that stress balls compared to fidget spinners did not have much of an effect on attention (Riley-Lomedico, Hanshaw, Nash & Pettijohn, 2018). Furthermore, moving away from attention, there has been a study looking into the use of stress balls in combination with stress (Srivarsan, Sridevi & Preetha, 2021). This study investigated the stress management of college students using stress balls. The researchers found that the stress management of college students was more significant when it came to using stress balls.
When looking at the use of stress balls with physical treatment, there is not much research done within that domain. However, by understanding the treatment and symptoms of the two exemplary cases, we can conclude that stress balls could help to strengthen muscles but they should not be considered the first line of treatment. Additionally, as we looked at the use of stress balls with stress and attention, there is a bit more that can be said. When it comes to attention, stress balls have been found to help students focus, especially younger students. In older students, perhaps fidget spinners would be of better use, especially for individuals with ADHD. In terms of stress, stress balls have been found to increase stress management in college students. This is an inexpensive and fun way to help one focus on the present moment and decompress, but should not be used as the first line of treatment. Given their positive impact in these areas, stress balls could also be considered as effective mental health giveaway items in various settings, offering a practical approach to stress management and attention improvement.
Stress balls are a great form of promotional product. You can get them in all sorts of different shapes, sizes, and colors and they hold longevity which makes them great at promoting one’s business. But are they successful with their purpose? After investigating the efficiency of stress balls, it is safe to say that they are not harmless and could help certain physical conditions and certain psychological needs such as attention and stress. However, it should be understood that stress balls have not been clinically researched, especially in terms of physicality, to help. Stress balls should not be the main or first line of treatment when it comes to physical pain, stress, or attention, but can be used as an inexpensive and easy distraction. Thus, stress balls still work as a promotional product as they are a great form of promotion when it comes to promotional products in giveaways and as it has some general benefits. On a final note, perhaps it would be interesting to investigate fidget spinners as a form of promotional product in giveaways, especially as mental health giveaway items, as there seems to be an increase in benefits when it comes to attention, and perhaps more.
Ally Hatcher
Psychology Blogger,
The Shared Secrets Lab,
GiftAFeeling Inc.
Yes, stress balls can be effective. They provide a physical outlet for tension, helping to reduce stress and anxiety. Squeezing a stress ball can also improve focus and concentration by channeling nervous energy. Additionally, they aid in hand muscle rehabilitation and strengthening, offering both psychological and physical benefits.
The best way to use a stress ball is to squeeze it in your hand, rhythmically and firmly, for a few seconds, then release. This action helps release tension and stress. Use it whenever you feel anxious or need to focus, repeating the squeeze-and-release process to calm nerves and improve concentration.
Promoting good mental health is vital as it enhances overall well-being, increases productivity, and improves quality of life. It helps in coping with stress, fostering resilience, and building strong relationships. Prioritizing mental health is crucial for personal development and contributes to healthier, more supportive communities and workplaces.
Stress balls help with mental health by providing a simple, physical way to release tension. Squeezing them can divert focus from stressors, reduce anxiety levels, and aid in relaxation. This repetitive action can also improve concentration and serve as a grounding technique during moments of stress or overwhelm.
Using a stress ball offers multiple benefits: it helps reduce feelings of anxiety and stress by providing a physical outlet for tension. It improves focus and concentration by channeling nervous energy. Additionally, regularly squeezing a stress ball can enhance hand strength and dexterity, beneficial for rehabilitation and muscle conditioning.
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