Four Stress Management Products To Take The Edge Off

Stress is the number one contributor to disease and fatigue. Stress figures strongly in overeating, which often leads to heart disease, diabetes, stroke and high blood pressure. It plays a prominent role in the disintegration of our relationships. So is it any wonder, that there is now a plethora of stress management products on the market to help us get the little beast under control.

Balls And More Balls

One such stress management product has been around for quite awhile—the stress or squeeze ball. The stress ball is a small foam ball that when used by itself (squeezed and released) provides the user a type of biofeedback that coordinates the squeezing and releasing of the ball, with the squeezing and releasing of muscle tension. In addition, the small foam ball can be thrown against things, like the computer screen or the wall—giving an outlet for mounting frustrations.

Juggling three or more foam balls has a double reward as a stress management activity. It takes the mind away from the stressful situation to focus on juggling, and you do have to focus, and it brings your muscles into action releasing muscle tension. Balls are inexpensive and the most versatile of all the stress management products.

Audio CDs

Another popular stress management product is the audio relaxation CDs. However, they vary greatly. Some play soothing music with stress relieving subliminal affirmations while others teach progressive muscular relaxation. All have been successful products for stress management. The trick is to find the CD the matches the individual's needs.

Biodots

Biodots are small, temperature-sensitive, self-adhesive circles that measure skin temperature. Skin temperature drops and becomes cooler when we are under stress. As we relax our blood vessels dilate and our skin temperature warms. Biodots are best used in combination with other stress management products and techniques. They do not reduce stress but rather measure the success of other stress management techniques and products we employ.

Aromatherapy

A very popular stress management product is aromatherapy. Scent enters the body through the nose and skin and reacts with brain chemicals to produce a relaxation response. Popular stress releasing fragrances include lavender, orange blossom, jasmine, rose and eucalyptus.

As long as stress remains a prominent factor in disease and resistance to disease, stress management tools, products and activities provide a good defense. Squeeze balls, biodots, CDs and aromatherapy are just a few of the many stress management products on the market today.