For many of us, stress and anxiety have become unwelcome visitors that simply refuse to leave, no matter how much we plead!
Interestingly, a simple and playful tool is gaining recognition for its ability to cajole our visitors to leave, or at least give us some breathing space.
Originally designed for children, fidget spinners have emerged as surprisingly effective tools for adults seeking to alleviate anxiety and improve focus, varying in exciting designs and sizes.
As they spin, they help redirect our focus, providing a momentary escape from the whirlwind of thoughts that plague us.
But then, what is the science behind these stress-relief toys? How do they work, and what are the myriad ways they can help promote relaxation and a sense of calm in our daily lives?
Let’s learn this together in this blog!
The Science Behind Fidgeting and Stress Relief
Fidgeting is the act of making small movements with the hands or feet.
The brain constantly seeks out sensory input to regulate its activity levels. When overstressed, it can become overwhelmed, leading to feelings of anxiety. Conversely, when under-stimulated, it can become bored or distracted.
Fidgeting provides a steady stream of sensory input, which helps the brain find its equilibrium.
This can be especially beneficial for individuals with attention deficit disorders, as it helps them stay focused and calm.
Engaging in simple, repetitive movements like spinning a fidget spinner can help shift the brain’s focus from stressors to more soothing activities. This can help reduce overall stress levels and improve emotional regulation.
Benefits of Using Fidget Spinners for Stress and Anxiety Management
- Relaxation Aids
One of the primary benefits of fidget toys is their ability to provide an immediate distraction from your thoughts.
This especially helps when you’re feeling nervous or tense. Fidget spinners offer a physical activity that can help redirect attention, providing a mental break.
Some spinners also offer a variety of exciting options, such as squishing, popping, gliding, Lego-style building and more, to help you relax.
- Mindfulness Tool
Spinning a fidget spinner requires a certain level of attention and engagement, which can anchor the mind in the present moment.
This mindfulness practice can be incredibly effective in reducing anxiety, as it prevents the mind from wandering into stressful thoughts about the past or future. By focusing on the simple act of spinning, individuals can cultivate a sense of calm and presence.
- Self-soothing Toys
Fidget spinners can serve as a form of self-soothing. The tactile sensation of holding and spinning the device can be comforting, much like other self-soothing behaviours such as rubbing a worry stone or squeezing a stress ball.
This sensory input can help regulate emotions and provide a sense of control during periods of heightened anxiety.
- Digital Breaks
Spending long hours on screens can leave your eyes tired, your head heavy, and your mind clogged.
By using a spinner, you’re allowing your eyes to truly rest, breaking the cycle of digital eye strain that comes from hours of screen time. At the same time, the small burst of movement releases tension in your body, making the break more restorative.
- Anxiety Aids
Anxiety often pulls you out of the present moment. Your thoughts race ahead into “what ifs” or loop endlessly around worries you can’t control. One of the easiest ways to cope with anxiety is by bringing yourself back to the present.
Spinning can help interrupt racing thoughts, calm physical restlessness, and help you regain a sense of control when anxiety feels overwhelming.
It doesn’t erase anxiety, but it reminds you: I am here. I am safe. I am in this moment.
Incorporating Fidget Spinners into Daily Routines
To maximise the benefits of fidget spinners, it’s important to incorporate them into daily routines in a way that enhances mental wellness and reduces anxiety.
One effective strategy is to use these sensory toys during designated break times. Taking short, regular breaks throughout the day to spin a fidget spinner can help reset the mind and reduce overall stress levels. This can be particularly helpful during long work or study sessions.
Another approach is to use fidget spinners as a form of active meditation. By focusing on the spinning motion and the sensations it produces, you can engage in a form of mindfulness practice.
This can be done for a few minutes each day, either in the morning to start the day with a sense of calm or in the evening to unwind before bed. Incorporating this practice into a daily routine can help build emotional resilience and reduce anxiety over time.
For those with busy schedules, keeping a fidget spinner on hand can assist in managing stress at workplace and provide immediate relief during stressful situations.
By making fidget spinners a regular part of your daily life, you can create a consistent coping mechanism that supports mental wellness.
What is your personal experience with fidget spinners? Share with us in the comments.
