Smart Relaxation Ball Aids Anxiety Reduction in New Bath Study
Researchers from the University of Bath in the United Kingdom have explored how a smart relaxation ball, when used with a guided breathing app, can noticeably ease anxiety. The investigation, which was presented at a prominent international conference on human factors in computing systems, provides a snapshot of how tangible feedback can support mental wellness. The team’s findings add a practical dimension to mindful breathing techniques, showing a potential upgrade from traditional methods.
The device works in tandem with a meditation app. As users inhale and exhale, the ball expands and contracts, offering a physical representation of breathing. This visual and tactile cue helps users stay connected to their breath and fosters a calmer emotional state, according to mental health experts who reviewed the study. The combination of digital guidance and a responsive object creates a multisensory experience that can anchor attention during breathing exercises.
In a trial involving 58 volunteers, the researchers observed a substantial reduction in anxiety levels among those who used the smart ball in conjunction with the app. The data indicated a 74% reduction in anxiety in this group. By contrast, participants who relied on the app alone—without the ball—experienced a 31% decrease in anxiety. These figures suggest that adding a physical feedback component can enhance the effectiveness of breathing-based strategies.
Breathing exercises have long been a staple of anxiety management and overall mental health support. They can help regulate the autonomic nervous system, promoting a shift toward a calmer state. Yet, in practice, many individuals struggle to maintain focus on their breath, especially when stress levels are high. Distractions, racing thoughts, or a sudden spike in worry can derail even well-intentioned sessions. This reality underscores the need for supportive tools that keep attention anchored and provide immediate feedback that resonates with the body.
Beyond the immediate technique of paced breathing, the study highlights a broader lesson: combining cognitive strategies with physical cues can create a more robust approach to mood regulation. Practitioners and researchers are increasingly interested in how tangible devices and digital guidance can work together to sustain engagement and improve outcomes. The Bath results contribute to that conversation by offering empirical support for a hybrid method that blends mindfulness with interactive technology.
From an applied perspective, the smart ball presents a potential option for individuals seeking non-pharmacological ways to manage anxious feelings. It may be particularly appealing for people who benefit from concrete demonstrations of breathing pace or who respond well to hands-on feedback. While the device is linked to a specific app, its underlying principle—bridging breath regulation with physical cues—can be adapted to other formats, making it a versatile addition to personal wellness routines.
As researchers continue to investigate how best to implement such tools in real-world settings, questions remain about long-term adherence, accessibility, and how these devices might integrate with broader mental health strategies. Nonetheless, the Bath study stands as a meaningful contribution to the field, illustrating how technology can complement traditional techniques to support emotional regulation and reduce anxiety in everyday life.
In summary, the collaboration between a smart relaxation ball and a guided breathing app demonstrates a promising pathway for enhancing anxiety management. By turning breath into a visible, tangible process, users may find it easier to stay present, steady their mood, and experience meaningful reductions in distress over time.