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What if we told you that it’s possible to work out and relieve stress at the same time? And that it’s easy, requires little concentration and won’t cause you to break a sweat? Or that by consistently using this hand-held object, you will notice an increase in strength?
You’d probably respond, "What’s this magic device?" Well, it’s not the mirror on the wall or Jack’s bean stalk. We present to you the stress ball, a palm-sized rubber ball filled with beans or seeds or another similar object. Stress balls come with a short instruction manual: you just squeeze. Over and over.
How they benefit you is simple. When you squeeze, the muscles not only contract in your hand, but up your arm as well. Hold the squeeze for a second or two and then release. As your muscles relax, the tension will leave your arms and hands, thereby relieving stress. It’s a great way to take out your frustration.
There are numerous benefits besides just relieving stress. You’ll improve hand strength and dexterity. Even if you’re not a professional athlete that needs to grab a basketball like a magnet, you’ll type more efficiently and grip and grab things easier. Stress balls also stimulate blood circulation and can help to reduce arthritic pain and stiffness. Just by squeezing a simple ball!
So take a ball with you in your purse or briefcase. When you’re talking on the phone at work, instead of doodling on that new proposal you just printed, distract your hands with a stress ball. Have a few minutes to kill? Squeeze away. Trying to stay awake in a meeting? You’d be surprised how effective these can be at boosting your attention level. And if you’re relaxing in front of the TV, why not use it then? Maybe even try one in each hand.
Next time you’re feeling overwhelmed at work or home, instead of losing your temper or breaking down in tears, take a second, take a few deep breaths and exercise with your stress ball. Use it each day as a stress management tool; it can go just about anywhere that you can.
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