What are stress balls?
Stress balls are therapeutic tools for helping people manage stress through the physical act of squeezing, rolling, or tossing a ball.
Made of various materials, from foam to rubber to metal, these balls can assist people in diffusing emotions like anger or anxiety and may even be able to curb panic attacks.
Benefits of stress balls
It’s important to note that research doesn’t suggest that stress balls can reduce stress and anxiety.
However, according to experts we spoke to, stress balls may be a beneficial tool for easing stress because they alleviate the physical experience of intense emotions. As Michelle Hunt, a mental health counselor and therapist at Empower Your Mind Therapy explains, stress is not only an emotional and mental reaction, it is also a physical experience.
“As stress builds in our bodies, it needs a way to be released in order to not perpetuate our emotional and mental state,” Hunt says. “Stress balls give a point of release for stress. They help calm the nervous system and assist with processing.”
More often than not, she adds, the physical release created by stress balls can actually decrease physical sensations of stress and other powerful emotions.
Best overall
Serenilite Hand Therapy Exercise Stress Ball Bundle
This three-pack of stress balls features a soft, medium, and hard density ball depending on what level of grip strength you prefer in the moment. Along with variety, these balls get top marks because they are covered in nonstick fabric and feature a durable gel core, meaning that they’ll hold up long term.
With more than 2,500 5-star reviews, these stress balls are the most reviewed — and loved — option on Amazon.
Best aesthetic
Ban.do Feel Better Destress Ball
For a decidedly chic stress ball option, look no further than Ban.do’s collection, which features various Instagrammable shapes to choose from, including a rainbow, a croissant, a self-help book, a strawberry, and a grapefruit.
Made from slow rising polyurethane foam, these cute squeezables have a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from customers, who rave about their bright colors and durability.
