Eight Tools to Utilize for Relaxation
Relaxing isn't always easy these days between work, family life, and everything going on in the world. So sometimes we all need a little help to relax and manage our stress. Here's a list of eight tools that just might be what you need.
1.) Stress balls - These have been around forever because they do work. They can be made of foam, clay, or gel. Repetitively squeezing them forces your body to release tension and causes your brain to produce endorphins, the hormones that make you feel good.
2.) Fidget Toys - These aren't just for kids! They are great for relieving stress and promoting concentration in adults, too, even if you don't have ADHD. There are literally dozens of different kinds of fidgets available today. They include the ubiquitous "spinners," squishy toys, link toys, slime balls, and pop-its. Most of them are cheap and available almost anywhere.
3.) A Desktop Zen Garden - These are just what they sound like. They are Japanese rock gardens in miniature, complete with sand, small rocks, tiny rakes, and shovels. Some even include miniature bonsai trees. The desktop ones are sized just right to fit on a desk and help you calm your mind.
4.) Neck and Back Massagers - We can't always work a real massage into our schedules or our budgets, but one of these can be available anytime you need it. They help relieve stress, muscle tension, and pain. Relaxation is just a few minutes away if you have one. Some of them are heated.
5.) Mediation Apps - It's well known that meditating is one of the best ways to relax. It reduces stress and promotes good health as well. There are many apps available for those who need a little bit of help doing it. Headspace, Calm, and Mindfulness are three of the best known. They start at just $3.99 per month. Most have free trials.
6.) Adult Coloring Book - Coloring is an activity that requires practically no skill and is inexpensive. Plus, coloring is strangely satisfying if you haven't done it since you were a kid. You may feel silly at first, but once you start, you will see just how relaxing it is to do something that requires your full attention and keeps your hands busy – which is important if you're trying to block out work or technology distractions.
7.) Magnetic Sculptures -These are another sensory relaxation tool. There are many kinds, and they can be bent and contorted, or reorganized in dozens of different ways. All are small enough to fit on a desk. They can help you concentrate and relax through fidgeting.
8.) Herbal Teas -Some non-caffeinated herbal teas contain compounds that help you relax and destress. They include chamomile, lavender, lemon balm, and peppermint. There are also blends available to induce calm, reduce stress or make you sleepy.
Give one or more of these a try.