Sensory devices are essential for emotional regulation since they offer a tangible way of grounding oneself by focusing on a sensory experience. Whether it is the comforting weight of a blanket or the tactile sensation of a fidget, such devices can calm the nervous system and bring you back to baseline when you are hyperaroused. They are especially useful for individuals with sensory sensitivities, but the fact is that anybody can benefit from having them in their possession. With the stresses of today's world, it's easy to feel overwhelmed, and sensory tools offer an easy, convenient solution for calming down and taking control back.
Weighted Toys
Weighted plushies have become one of the most sought-after sensory tools, especially among those in need of comfort and relaxation in their daily activities. At first sight, they may look like cuddly toys, but they are specially designed with some additional weight, usually filled with glass beads or pellets, to give a soft, grounding pressure as you hold them. This additional weight has the same efficacy as deep pressure therapy, which is also proven to decrease stress levels, soothe anxiety, and promote relaxation.
What makes weighted toys unique is that they combine two comforting elements into one product. On the one hand, you have the psychological comfort of a soft cuddly toy, something with which most of us feel safe and snug. But you are also feeling the therapeutic benefits of weight, which helps to regulate the nervous system by telling the body that it is safe and can unwind. In children, teenagers, and even adults, the mixture of these can be incredibly powerful in moments of being overwhelmed or feeling overpowered.
In contrast to the bulkier, less mobile heavyweight blankets, plushies are portable almost anywhere. Put one in your lap as you work from home, hug one to you on a tough commute to work, or keep one handy when relaxing before bed. They're a discreet, portable solution for learning emotional regulation on the go.
They're also great for kids who have issues with transitions or sensory sensitivities. Having a weighted plushie with them in their backpack can provide a sense of security and comfort no matter where they are. For adults, they can be a handy desk companion or a snuggly addition to the couch after work. Weighted toys are also simply fun. They come in all shapes, sizes, and characters conceivable, so finding one that feels intimate and comforting is easy.
Weighted Blanket
A weighted blanket is one of the most sought-after and effective sensory tools. It applies gentle, consistent pressure throughout your body, which can decrease stress hormones and induce a feeling of relaxation. This pressure replicates a therapeutic method called deep touch pressure, and it has been proven to work to improve sleep, ease anxiety, and calm restlessness.
Fidgets
Fidgets have been a rapid stress-relief device, and they are right to. These small, transportable tools are designed to occupy your hands, which in turn calms your mind. They come in every shape and size, from cubes and spinners to stretch bands and squishy animals. What makes them so potent is that they can provide repetitive, rhythmic motion that can calm energy and focus. For children, fidgets are great to use at school, staying on task without getting distracted. For adults, they can be just as useful at the workplace, during long meetings, or even on a flight.
Balls
Emotion regulation tools such as therapy balls, stress balls, or sensory balls are also useful. By squeezing, rolling, or tossing them, you engage your muscles as well as focus your mind on a repetitive, grounding task. Hand pressure is released, and textured balls can also be found to provide additional tactile stimulation.
For kids, sensory balls can be incorporated into play so they're fun in addition to being helpful. For adults, they're easy to bring in a bag or keep on a desk to grab whenever tension starts to build. They're especially helpful for anxious people because they can be squeezed as a way of immediate release of nervous energy that has built up, leaving you relaxed and grounded afterwards.
Necklaces
Chewelry, or chew necklaces, are sensory aids designed to enhance self-regulation by way of oral stimulation. With popularity among children with sensory processing needs, they may also benefit teenagers and adults. Made from safe, food-grade silicone, the necklaces give the user the means to chew as a form of self-soothing, anxiety relief, and focus support.
Headphones
Noise is also one of the biggest sources of stress and feelings of being overwhelmed. It's why headphones are such a valuable sensory tool. Noise-cancelling headphones, in particular, are wonderful at creating a sense of calm when you're in loud environments like classes, offices, or buses. You can use them to block out obnoxious sounds and focus on the things that matter, whether that's work, school, or simply relaxing.
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