In todays fast-paced world, stress has become an inevitable part of our lives. From work pressure to personal issues, stress can take a toll on our mental and physical wellbeing.
Fortunately, there are various stress-relief tools and techniques available that can help us manage our stress levels effectively. One such tool that has gained immense popularity in Australia is the worry stone.
These small, smooth stones, made of various crystals, are believed to have a calming effect on the mind and can help reduce anxiety and stress. They are portable, easy to use, and can fit in your pocket, making them a convenient stress-relief tool that you can carry with you wherever you go.
In this blog, we'll take a closer look at the benefits of worry stones and why they have become the ultimate stress-relief tool in Australia. So, whether you're dealing with work-related stress or simply need to unwind after a long day, worry stones might just be the perfect solution for you.
The therapeutic use of worry stones dates back to ancient Greece, Tibet, Mesopotamia, North America, and Ireland. Much like how prayer beads are used, the action of rubbing a stone and holding positive thoughts and intentions can help deal with anxiety or aid in prayer or meditation.
Curious to learn more? Here's everything you need to know about worry stones.
What is a Worry Stone?
A worry stone is a small, smooth stone (often made from a crystal or gemstone) that is shaped like an oval and has a thumb-shaped indentation on one side.
The purpose of worry stones is to rub the indented area back and forth as a way to calm the mind. They are primarily used as a tool for stress and anxiety relief in both children and adults. Aside from this, using a worry stone can support healthy self-soothing exercises to help replace negative and counterintuitive comforting habits like pulling hair, biting lips or nails, or picking at skin.
Combining the energy of the crystals they are crafted from, with the mindfulness practice of rubbing the stones indented surface with your thumb, the use of worry stones for soothing the soul has ties to cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) practices and instils a sense of calm and relaxation.
Gently rub the stone in any way that feels the most natural to you. Imagine the stone absorbing uneasy thoughts and feelings, grounding and calming as you refocus your energies back into the present moment.
When to use a Worry Stone
When you're feeling stressed
This encompasses many scenarios - big interview coming up? First day at a new job or school? Big exam? Getting ready for a date? Stressing about the state of the world? The sky is the limit with a worry stone. Regardless of what may be causing you stress at the time, if you are going through a challenging transit, or periods of anxiety, a worry stone is there to support you.
During a difficult conversation
If you struggle to keep your cool during arguments, that's another great opportunity to call on your worry stone. Reach for it when you feel tempers flaring, and give yourself a moment to gently rub the stone a few times and take a deep breath before you decide to speak.
Distraction from worry or anxiety
Worry can darken any day if you let it take over your mind. Until you learn to channel your thinking away from your worried thoughts, you will likely have trouble coping with the ups, downs, and concerns in your life. Of course, it’s important to do what you can to resolve problems. Sometimes, though, there’s just nothing you can do to improve your situation in that moment. At times like those, using a worry stone can help you focus on the present and calm your mind.
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