Stress is a very common occurrence for many people, affecting every age and population. It is important to manage, as stress wreaks havoc on your emotional and physical health. It can narrow your ability to think clearly, function effectively, and enjoy life. So what can you do to manage your stress besides a lifestyle change?
One of the fastest way to reduce stress in the moment is by using your senses. Tune into what you see, hear, taste, and touch. By viewing a favourite photo, smelling a specific scent, listening to a favourite piece of music, tasting something you enjoy, or hugging a pet, you can quickly relax and focus yourself. Of course, not everyone responds to each sensory experience in the same way. The key to quick stress relief is to experiment and discover the unique sensory experiences that work best for you.
Below are simple instructions to make your own coping tool: Squeeze balls! These balls are wonderful for relieving tension and grounding you in your sense of touch. Plus added bonus: squeezing them helps with blood circulation and releases tension from other areas in your body! They are very easy to make, plus it's fun to create many and share them with your family and friends.
Materials
Balloons
Filler: Rice, Flour, Cornstarch, Play dough, Beans
*Each material will have a different texture. Play around and find out which you like best
Funnel (optional)
Directions
1.Stretch out your ballon: simply blow it up and deflate.
2.Place funnel in balloon mouth and pour in chosen material. No funnel is needed if you have helping hands.One person holds the balloon mouth open while the other feeds chosen material inside.
3. When balloon feels like the right size for your hand gently squeeze out excess air and tie a knot. If you used flour pinch half of balloon neck and let air out slowly. If you don't the flour may eject everywhere! Tip: Put a second balloon around the first to make it stronger and last longer.
4. Decorate! Cut shapes in empty balloons and layer them over your ball. Draw faces with a felt pen. Create patterns. The possibilities are only limited by your imagination. Have fun and be well everyone!