Anti-stress ring

As sources of stress multiply around us, methods, gadgets and other accessories to help us channel our nervous tension are diversifying.

Indeed, alongside stress balls and anti-stress toys, jewelry designers are now offering anti-stress rings that allow users to operate their fingers quietly and discreetly.

What is an anti-stress ring? How do they work? How should it be worn? And what are they good for? We explain.

1. What is an anti-stress ring?

An anti-stress ring is a ring, usually made of silver, consisting of two rings mounted one on top of the other:

• a first ring, flat, smooth and fixed on the finger;

• a second ring, often more elaborate, chased and decorated with various motifs, sliding over the first ring.

This structure allows you to keep your fingers in motion, by turning and sliding the ring as desired.

These rings, designed for men and women of all ages, are intended to:

• soothe;

• promote well-being;

• release tension.

In fact, the mechanical gesture of turning the outer ring on the main ring encourages the release of stress.

2. Are there different types of anti-stress rings?

Most anti-stress rings are made of silver:

• Smooth silver;

• worked silver;

• in matt silver;

• shiny silver;

• brushed silver;

• chased silver;

• with patterns.

However, anti-stress rings are also available in:

• steel;

• brass;

• copper;

• gold.

A wide range of styles are available, to match every style of man or woman:

• ethnic style;

• bohemian style;

• hippie chic; etc.

3. How is a stress-relieving ring worn?

An anti-stress ring can be worn on any finger of the hand, depending on:

• comfort required;

• the desired style;

• how you feel most comfortable using it.

A. Anti-stress ring worn like a wedding band

Some people prefer to operate the rotating ring with their thumb. In this case, the ring should be worn on the ring finger, just like a conventional wedding band.

B. Anti-stress ring worn on middle or index finger

Many people prefer to wear several rings on the different fingers of their hand, depending on their tastes and what the combination of these rings conveys. An anti-stress ring can be worn on either the middle or index finger. This makes it easy to operate with the thumb.

C. Anti-stress ring worn on the little finger

The ring can also be worn on the little finger. In this case, you'll need to choose a smaller, less wide and more discreet ring, which will remain accessible to the thumb to initiate the rotating movement.

D. Stress ring worn on the thumb

The anti-stress ring can also be worn on the thumb. In this case, the index or middle finger actuates the rotating mechanism, for the same de-stressing effect.

It should be noted that you can wear your anti-stress ring on its own or with other silver rings. The key is to achieve a harmonious look on the hand.

4. How does an anti-stress ring work?

The concept of the anti-stress ring is based on the following principle: reproducing a repetitive movement almost reflexively diverts attention from what is really stressing us. It acts as a kind of lure for the brain, helping to release certain tensions.

Worn on the forefinger, ring finger or middle finger, it's by pushing with the same hand, or with a finger of the other hand, that you provoke the perpetual rotation of the rings, a gesture that quickly becomes instinctive. To benefit from the desired effects, simply rotate the outer ring on the fixed one. This principle is based on the same mechanism as those who tirelessly rotate their pen between their fingers when thinking.

Manipulating the stress ring between your fingers, twirling it, touching it, etc. is designed to occupy a part of your brain which is usually distracted by your thoughts, helping you to concentrate on something specific, without paying attention to the rest.

And so, by moving them between your fingers, manipulating the rings of the anti-stress ring enables you, particularly in times of stress or anxiety, to:

• relax;

• calm down;

• distract yourself.