"Squeezing a squishy seems to calm me down."
"Touching it when I'm anxious distracts me."
"Does it really have a relaxing effect?"
Many squishy users may have felt this way.
Squishies, which offer a soft tactile experience, have recently gained attention as "comfort items" and "stress relief goods."
This article explains, from a scientific perspective, how squishies can help shift your mood when you're feeling anxious or stressed.
※Squishies are not medical devices or therapeutic products. If anxiety or stress persists, it is important to consult a specialist.
Why squishies feel "calming"
There are several reasons why squeezing a squishy can make you feel relaxed.
① Easy to shift focus by moving your hands
When feeling anxious or tense, people sometimes get stuck in a loop of repetitive thoughts.
In such moments, focusing on the simple act of squeezing a squishy can provide a temporary shift in mood.
Simple hand movements are adopted by many as a way to create a focus for concentration.
② Soft texture leads to a sense of security
A major appeal of squishies is their soft, squishy texture.
Particularly popular slow-rising squishies slowly return to their original shape after being squeezed, offering the enjoyment of watching and touching this movement.
The act of squeezing at a steady rhythm and enjoying the soft texture is an easy method to incorporate into daily relaxation time.
③ The "joy of touch" helps change your mood
Squishies are not just toys;
- Squeezing
- Watching
- Collecting
- Displaying
and more, there are various ways to enjoy them.
By choosing your favorite design, you can create small moments of daily enjoyment and relaxation.
Differences between squishies and typical stress relief items
There are various types of stress relief items.
For example:
- Stress balls
- Fidget spinners
- Push pops
- Fidget cubes
- Squishies
and so on.
Among them, the characteristic of squishies is the ability to enjoy both tactile sensation and design simultaneously.
| Type | Features |
|---|---|
| Squishies | Soft, squishy texture, cute designs, slow-rising motion |
| Stress balls | Elastic squeeze |
| Fidget spinners | Enjoyable spinning motion |
| Push pops | Enjoyable popping sensation |
Squishies are suitable for those who want to "feel soothed by touch" and "carry cute things."
How to enjoy squishies when feeling anxious
Squishies can be enjoyed even more with a little ingenuity in how you use them.
Squeeze gently
Instead of crushing it forcefully, press it gently and enjoy the sensation.
The key is to feel the squishy texture and the way it returns to its original shape.
Place it near your desk or bed
Keeping it within reach allows you to easily enjoy it during breaks or relaxation time.
Choose your favorite design
Squishies come in a wide variety of types.
Popular designs:
- Bread
- Sweets
- Animals
- Fruits
- Character-themed designs
Their cuteness is also part of the fun.
Tips for choosing a squishy for anxiety relief
If you're choosing one for relaxation, the following points are recommended:
Choose a soft type
Slow-rising types are popular for those who enjoy a squishy texture.
Choose a size that's easy to grip
Palm-sized ones are easy to hold and recommended for beginners.
Prioritize quality if you want to use it for a long time
The feel and durability vary depending on the material and craftsmanship.
If you want to enjoy it as a favorite for a long time, it's important to choose a high-quality squishy.
Yu-muni's Commitment to Squishies
At Yu-muni, we view squishies as "items that bring a small measure of comfort to everyday life."
Beyond just cute designs, we focus on:
- The pleasantness of the initial touch
- The squishy texture
- Quality that allows for long-term enjoyment
and carefully craft each one.
We aim to create squishies that can be enjoyed as companions for a little mood change or a moment of peace during busy days.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. Does squeezing a squishy really eliminate anxiety?
Squishies are not a treatment for anxiety. However, by enjoying their soft texture and the act of squeezing them, they can be used as an item for mood enhancement and relaxation.
Q. Can adults use squishies too?
Absolutely. Nowadays, they are popular not only with children but also as hobbies and desk items for adults.
Q. What kind of squishy is recommended when feeling anxious?
Soft, easy-to-grip slow-rising types or palm-sized squishies are recommended.
Summary
While squishies do not completely eliminate anxiety or stress, they can be used as an item for mood enhancement and relaxation by enjoying their soft texture and the act of squeezing them.
Key points for choosing are:
- A soft, squishy texture
- An easy-to-grip size
- A design you like
- Good quality
That's it.
Why not incorporate a squishy into your daily breaks as your own personal comfort item?