By: Bertil Hjert
A stress ball can be defined as a malleable toy. It is about seven centimeters in diameter. It is squeezed in the hand and then manipulated by the fingers. This exercise helps a lot in relieving stress as well as the muscle tension. This is also a good exercise for hand muscles.
Many types of stress balls are available on the market, these days. Some of them are available in the form of a closed-cell polyurethane foam rubber. This kind of stress ball is created by injecting liquid components of a foam into a mold. The chemical reaction that results forms bubbles of carbon dioxide and ultimately comes out in the form of a foam.
Stress ball recommended for physical therapy contain gel of various densities. The gel is placed inside a cloth or rubber skin. There is another type of stress ball that is made via using a thin rubber membrane that surrounds a fine powder.
A stress ball can also be made at home via filling a balloon with baking soda. Some balls look like foot bag and are marketed and used widely as stress balls.
The name 'Stress ball' may indicate that the shape of this substance is spherical. However, these are available in various amusing shapes, spot printed or screen printed. Some are also available with corporate logos. These make great gifts to clients and employees.
Stress balls can play a major role in decreasing stress injuries. Due to the shape these balls are available in; they are known as stress relievers and also make a great corporate promotional product.
Stress balls are wonderful options to relieve stress. Whenever the hand is turned in to a fist, you would notice certain muscle tension. This muscle tension may also be experienced if you don't have anything in the palm. As soon as the grip of fist is released the muscle tension eases.
The cycle of creating a muscular tension and thereafter releasing it in the basic principle that works with stress balls.
It is better to have something in hand instead of making an empty fist and releasing it frequently. These days, stress balls are very famous with computer professionals.
You can also make your own stress balls at home. The activity will be fun and help you to reduce a lot of stress.
Balloon Stress Ball - Instruction
i) Blow a small thick balloon half way.
ii) Pinch and hold the balloon tight about one inch from the hole.
iii) Place a small funnel inside the opening of the balloon.
iv) Now pour cornstarch in to the funnel.
v) Now gradually release the top of the balloon so that the cornstarch slides in to balloon
vi) Keep adding cornstarch until the balloon is 3 inches in diameter.
vii) Now tighter the end of the balloon and let the air come out slowly.
viii) Tie the balloon tightly near the cornstarch.
A stress ball is a great tool to manage stress. Buy one for yourself now or make one on your own.
