How to Make Your Own Stress Ball From a Balloon & Rice

It is impossible to avoid stress. You may have noticed that just about everyone has a stress ball on his or her desk. Do not be jealous; make your own and squeeze your stress away. As an added bonus, you will strengthen muscles in your hand and arm and alleviate the strain that can lead to repetitive-motion injuries.

Things You'll Need

• Small, round balloons (2-3 for each stress ball)
• Rice
• Funnel
• Scissors
• Permanent markers

Instructions

1. Pick a balloon in the color of your choice. Blow it up slightly to stretch it out a bit.

2. Insert the funnel into the opening of the balloon.

3. Fill the balloon with rice until it is about 3 inches in diameter. Tap the balloon on a table to get the rice to settle.

4. Tie the end of the balloon into a tight knot. Snip off the excess balloon close to the knot.

5. Take another balloon in a contrasting color. Cut off the neck of the balloon, and cut a few small holes in the balloon.

6. Pull the balloon over the rice-filled balloon, covering the knot. Repeat Step 5 to add another layer of colors to your stress ball. You can now start squeezing, or decorate your ball with permanent markers.

Tips & Warnings

• Stress balls are good for improving coordination, stimulating circulation, and preventing arthritis and rheumatism. Physical therapists use stress balls with their patients to strengthen the muscles in the arm, wrist and hand.

• Make three stress balls to create a juggling set.

• This is an excellent craft project to do with children ages 5 and older.

• Keep stress balls out of reach of small children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.

References

• Organic Health Blog
• Craft Bits