60 Weird, Clever Things For People Who Are Anxious AF That Are Actually Life-Changing

One reviewer wrote of this magnesium spray: “I sprayed the bottom of my feet, and I tell you what — I [...] had a restful sleep, didn't feel so anxious throughout the day, and my mood overall improved,” and another wrote, “The magnesium helps relax my muscles and calms my mind, leading to a more restful night.” Sourced from an ancient seabed, this magnesium chloride is packaged in a spray bottle for easy application. It’s fragrance free and you can apply it to the areas you think you need it most.

Quality rest can be helpful for anyone — anxious or not — and this cervical pillow is designed to help you get it. The unique contours aim to gently cradle your head, while keeping your spine in alignment to help prevent strain and discomfort. It works for back and side sleepers alike, and even has armrests on each side.

• Available colors: 3

Whenever you need a break from the hustle and bustle of your day, snuggle up with this faux fur throw blanket for instant comfort and softness. Available in three sizes and 24 different colors, the reversible blanket is super plush — measuring at 1.5 inch thick — and its shaggy texture on one side is just as good as the soft fleece on the other.

• Available sizes: 3
• Available colors: 24

Who says adults can’t have stuffed animals? This plush toy can be an excellent calming aid, as it’s specifically designed to help you find some inner calm during stressful times. Built with responsive technology, it has a “heartbeat” inside that turns into a slow purr when you hold or pet it, which the brand states can help to promote emotional regulation. One reviewer raved, “Truly the best purchase I've ever made, perhaps its because I am a cat person but the feeling of holding this little guy against your heart while he purrs is just so good at helping me calm down when I feel overwhelmed or anxious.”

If you find that heat brings you comfort, give these rechargeable hand warmers a try. The double-sided square heats up in under two minutes and stays at that temperature for three to four hours on a full charge. Available in multiple designs, it’s pocket-sized and lightweight. One reviewer wrote, “The square handwarmer [...] feels nice in your hand, it’s soothing like a stress reliever.”

• Available styles: 5

Though it looks a little intimidating at first, this two-piece acupressure mat set is actually designed to help reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation. Available in 15 colors, it’s made of cotton and foam, complete with thousands of acupressure points that stimulate circulation. One reviewer wrote, “It is extremely uncomfortable for the first few minutes, but then it creates a deep sense of relaxation both physically and mentally. I honestly don’t think I could live without one at this point.”

• Available colors: 15

Intrigued by the idea of forest bathing but don’t have one nearby? Give this forest bathing light bulb a try instead. It uses a unique spectrum of light that mimics the sunlight filtered through a forest canopy to help create a calming, nature-inspired vibe anywhere it’s installed. While it may not have all the benefits an actual forest might provide, it might still offer some positive effects. One reviewer wrote, “Popped it in a lamp, and my daughter (also a migraine-sufferer) and I both seemed to just relax. The green tone of the light almost immediately faded from notice, and we were left with the feeling of peace of the sun streaming through the leaves on a forest floor.”

Another great tool is this hardcover journal, 52 Lists for Calm, which helps you cultivate peace through the soothing activity of making lists. The journal includes 52 prompts that help you focus on compassion and acceptance, along with related exercises for affirmations, meditation, releasing, etc. The journal is divided into four themes: be present, look back, move forward, and peace.

When you’re feeling stressed, an extra helping of coziness might sound good — that’s when this wearable sweatshirt blanket comes in clutch. Made from plush fleece with a breathable sherpa lining, it has a comfy, oversize design that offers a cocoon-like feel. It even has a tie-waist and hood for a more custom fit. One reviewer wrote, “If I have a stressful day, I just put this on and it all goes away. Great for taking a nap in as well. I can't say enough how comfy, cuddly and soft this is.”

• Available sizes: Teen, Adult, Oversized
• Available colors: 16

Available in five different style, this set of four fidget spinner rings is a discreet way to keep your hands busy — and they look cool too. Available in a wide range of sizes, the outer layer of each ring spins 360 degrees, giving you something to focus on whenever you need it. Plus, they just look cool.

• Available sizes: 5 — 14
• Available styles: 5

If you hold stress in your neck or shoulders, this neck traction block may prove a helpful ally. It’s designed to gently stretch your muscles and help restore posture (helpful if you’re hunched over a computer all day). It’s height adjustable and the brand recommends using it for 10 minutes a day.

Some people find that connecting with their breath can be helpful, and this breathing necklace helps you do just that. The tiny tube offers some resistance when you breathe into it, which slows down your breath cycle anywhere from eight to 10 seconds per exhalation. The necklace comes accompanied by a bracelet with beads you can spin with your fingers (including one bead that glows in the dark).

• Available finishes: 3

Great for promoting a sensory distraction, these tactile strips have a rough texture that some people find super satisfying to touch. Available in a dozen design options, they can be applied to phones, computers, desks, or other surfaces without any residue or damage. One Amazon reviewer wrote, “love feeling these on the back of my phone or kindle when in deep stress or even on my switch, it seems to zone me out of whatever I’m stressing over at the time which is nice.”

• Available styles: 12

A good night’s rest can be helpful for anyone — anxious or not — and you can fall asleep to your favorite soothing sounds with these sleep headphones. They’re made of a soft velvet material with built-in Bluetooth headphones and can be worn like a headband or over your eyes to block out light. On a full charge, they deliver 14 hours of play time, which should be more than enough to get you through the night.

• Available colors: 13

If you find loud environments to be stressful, these Loop earplugs can help you tune out the noise, so you can create a more peaceful environment for yourself. And, while they reduce the level of sound, they still allow you to hear conversation, so you can continue to engage. They come with four ear tip sizes for a comfortable, custom fit and can be used for up to five years. One reviewer wrote, “These have helped me so much. I bought the Engage version to help me when I go grocery shopping, especially at Costco where it’s super loud. I can now casually walk through and get what I need without feeling overwhelmed and anxious. I can hear the people close to me but all the extra loudness is dimmed down.”

• Available colors: 4

Enjoy some extra peace of mind knowing you can tune in to your home’s front stoop, regardless of where you are, with this light bulb security camera. It screws into any standard light bulb socket and connects automatically to a mobile app via Bluetooth. Enjoy clear views, even in low-light settings, thanks to night vision.

Even if you don’t have an emotional support animal, you can pretend like you do with this card deck. Each of the 64 cards includes a cute drawing of a pet, along with positive affirmations and guidance for ways to find mindfulness throughout the day. It’s a simple but incredibly popular tool, having earned an impressive 4.8-star overall rating after 2,500 reviews.

Experience the benefits of essential oils anywhere, any time with this essential oil diffuser necklace. Made of stainless steel, the necklace comes with 11 essential oil pads in different colors that let you match the scents to your mood — just add a few drops, insert the pad and close the locket. It even comes packaged in a ready-to-gift velvet bag.

Indulge in the scents of aromatherapy with this sage and cedarwood candle aimed at helping to relieve stress. It’s made from soy wax and sustainably sourced botanicals and the brand claims the fragrance blend is designed to help reduce negative energy while you set intentions. If cedarwood isn’t your vibe, opt for one of the five other wellness-focused scents.

• Available scents: 6

As seen on Shark Tank, the original Sleep Pod hugs your body while you rest, creating a cocoon-like design that mimics the calming sensation of a hug. Made with patented HugStretch technology, it aims to help relieve tension and prepare you for restful sleep — while still offering breathability and temperature regulation so you won’t get too toasty. One reviewer wrote, “If I have a stressful day, I just put this on and it all goes away. Great for taking a nap in as well. I can't say enough how comfy, cuddly and soft this is.”

• Available sizes: Kids — XX-Large
• Available colors: 3

Add some calm and serenity to your home with this tabletop fountain that features a three-tier design. All you have to do is plug it in to enjoy the soothing sounds of running water while it trickles down the pillars and into the river stones. Light the three tea light candles for even more ambience.

Many people hold stress in their muscles and that’s where this massage cane can be a helpful tool to have around. Designed for deep-tissue relief, it has a curved design with a firm tip for working out knots, along with double massage balls to target both sides of your spine. With a little practice, you’ll be able to soothe those hard-to-reach muscles on your own whenever you need.

This fidget spinner masquerades as a simple ring that comes in finishes like silver, gold, and sparkly black. The ring has two layers — you can use your thumb to rotate the outer layer. It comes in multiple sizes for a perfect fit and is a perfect low-key way to give yourself some distraction.

• Available sizes: 5
• Available colors: 8

You can never have enough stress balls on hand, which is why this 24-pack of 2-inch stress balls is practically a no-brainer for those who like them. Complete with a classic smiley face design, they’re soft and squeezable, while also being durable and easy to clean. Keep them scattered throughout your home or even give them as gifts.

If keeping tabs on who’s coming and going puts your mind at ease, you might consider installing these window and door alarms. They’re outfitted with magnetic sensors and emit a sound when windows or doors are opened — opt for a calming chime in frequently used entries and an alarm for windows or doors that shouldn’t be breached. They’re battery operated and install with double-sided adhesive.

If stress tends to lead to you biting your nails, this nail biting deterrent might help you break the habit. Formulated with a super bitter taste, it applies like nail polish and can be used as a top coat or a base coat to discourage you from putting your nails in your mouth. It also includes a nail file to help you maintain your nails as they grow.

You can tune the rest of the world out and reconnect with the joy that coloring can bring with this stress-relief coloring book for adults. With 60 unique designs, the book is filled with different themes including florals, patterns, cute animals, and countryside scenes Each page is 8.5 by 11 inches and can help promote relaxation while keeping your hands occupied.

Mentally escape to space — or at least to the northern lights — with this galaxy projector. It features a large projection area along with adjustable speed and brightness, while a built-in speaker and multiple settings allow you to truly set the mood. It charges via USB and is portable for indoor or outdoor use. Use it whenever you need a literal change of scenery — without even leaving your home.

If you’ve ever wished you could have a human-size dog bed, consider your wish granted with this foldable human dog bed by Bedsure. Lounge, nap, or indulge in a television marathon atop the high-density foam bed covered in a plush, washable cover. When you’re not lounging on it, you can fold up the bottom half to create a bolstered bed for just your pup.

• Available colors: 12
• Available sizes: 3

Many people get a little sweaty when they feel nervous — if that’s you, these absorbent towelettes are helpful to have on hand. Measuring 10 by 10 inches, these compact towels dry 10 times faster than cotton and resist odor. Stick one in your bag, in your desk, and take them along to the gym, too.

• Available colors: 12

Many people find touch to be helpful, and this two-piece gua sha and ice roller set offers that, along with a cooling sensation. One reviewer reported, “I keep this in my mini fridge so when I use it it’s 💯 luxurious! Stress falls away and my skin feels pampered.” Some reviewers have also reported using it to help relieve discomfort: “The cold therapy offered by the ice roller has been a lifesaver during migraine episodes, offering immediate soothing relief when applied to the temples and forehead,” wrote one Amazon reviewer.

Is stress keeping you up at night? Do what you can to create a calming, soothing environment with the addition of this white noise machine. It offers 14 sounds including six white noises, three lullabies, and five nature sounds to suit your listening preferences. You can choose from five timer settings or set it to play indefinitely.

• Available colors:10

Aromatherapy can be a great way to help soothe the senses and unwind — and this essential oil diffuser combines it with the cozy look of a fire. This compact diffuser features a built-in light that makes the evaporating water look like flames. It runs for up to 10 hours — just add water and your favorite essential oil.

• Available colors: 4

Ever feel like pulling your hair out with stress? Well now you can (sort of) with these hair-pulling toys. These squishy toys feature long “strands” of hair — pull them and they’ll let out one of five sounds. One reviewer wrote, “These are great for relieving stressful situations. The sounds are just loud enough to be heard but not too loud. It is exactly what we were hoping for.”

Chromotherapy theorizes that certain colors may influence your mood and outlook. If you’ve never given it a try, these tinted glasses make it easy. These aqua-colored glasses just might help you relax more, according to the brand, and they’re also available in other shades, like pink to help cultivate feelings of joy and yellow, which is designed to help you have a more energetic outlook. One reviewer wrote that the sunglasses “do take the edge off, and for this price they are totally worth it,” “ and another mentioned they “make the the view so calming and relaxing.”

Slowing down fast breathing can help you relax, and this mindful breathing device is an aid for doing just that. This glowing lamp changes colors and you can follow along to help regulate your breathing pattern: Inhale when it’s green, hold when it’s purple, then exhale when it turns blue. This device also doubles as a night-light and a sound machine for even more soothing vibes.

• Available styles: 4

Treat yourself to a soothing experience at the end of the day with these steaming eye masks. These self-heating masks activate when you open the pouch and release moist heat to provide a relaxing feeling and soothe tired, dry eyes. Besides this unscented option, they come in cedarwood, lavender, green tea, and jasmine fragrances.

• Available scents: 5

Give yourself a sense of added security with this personal alarm. Marketed as “pocket-sized peace of mind,” it emits a loud alarm and flashes a bright strobe light to ensure you're heard and seen — just pull the pin to activate it. Fitting right onto your key chain, it’s rechargeable and displays a low-battery notice.

If the cause of your anxiety tends to be devices that lose battery fast, this portable charger can remedy that. Compatible with both iPhones and Androids, it’s designed with a built-in cable for fuss-free powering up. It provides more than a full charge to any phone before it needs to recharge itself.

• Available colors: 6

A body that feels good can go a long way in overall well-being, so set your desk up for comfort with this adjustable footrest. It props up your feet so your legs are in a more comfortable position relative to the rest of your body, and the base is removable if you need less elevation. Made from sturdy memory foam with a removable cover, it’s supportive but soft on feet.

• Available colors: 23

This night-light has color options, so you can choose the shade that soothes you most while you drift off to sleep. It’s also nice to have on hand when you’re awake, as the soft, cozy glow is gentler on your senses than harsh overhead light. The rechargeable lamp has a handle for easy portability and comes with a remote control for operation — although you can also just use the touch-control feature on top.

One reviewer who bought this light bulb wrote that “the color helps mellow out the room and makes my brain slow down a bit before bed,” adding, “It has definitely helped me ease into bed time.” The energy-efficient bulb utilizes an amber hue to reduce blue light by 99.94%, which may help signal to the brain it’s time to relax and get ready for rest. Just install it in the room where you spend the most time before sleep.

• Available colors: 2

Worrying can be a natural part of life, but if it’s become too stressful, this guided journal may prove an ally. It has space for daily journaling, along with helpful exercises for reframing your thoughts and fears, habit trackers to help you prioritize self care, and emotional support cheat sheets that help you focus on what you love and value. One reviewer wrote, “This journal has helped me process my emotions - good or bad, overwhelming or not - at the end of each day. It is so intentional about reframing and examining your day and really focusing on what you went through and turning it back to gratitude. I’ve bought this for friends and recommend it constantly!”

Sometimes, putting pen to paper can help declutter the mind and organize your thoughts, and this five-minute self-care journal makes it easy. Organized by day, each page has both morning and evening sections, with quotes that encourage positive thinking and prompts for writing out your thoughts. Choose from five beautiful covers.

• Available styles: 5

Fill your space with the fragrance of essential oils with this diffuser set. The set includes a diffuser and 10 commonly loved oils including lavender, orange, peppermint, and eucalyptus. The diffuser works to disperse the scent throughout the room and is equipped with both a timer and auto shutoff for when the water is running low. It also has a rainbow light ring that can stay on or be turned off.

Designed to encourage sensory stimulation, these worry stones feature indentations that are designed to be rubbed with your thumb for a soothing, grounding sensation. The listing has 15 crystal options, including stones like tiger’s eye and amethyst, and all are polished to a smooth finish. They’re small enough to fit in your pocket, so you can take them anywhere.

• Available colors: 15

Many people find physical sensations to be grounding — if that’s you, you may appreciate this massage roller. Boasting a 4.7-star overall rating, this spiky ball helps relieve tightness on the bottoms of your feet — but you can also use it along your arms or shoulders (just lie on top of it).

There’s nothing quite as cozy, soft, or comforting as a Squishmallow — and if you haven’t felt one, there’s no time like the present. These super plush toys aren’t just for kids as they’re oversized at 14 inches and are made with super soft, huggable materials that make them perfect to cuddle with on the couch. Choose from 10 styles, including a fox, possum, and a stack of blueberry pancakes.

• Available styles: 10

Consider this weighted eye mask a mini weighted blanket for your face. Not only does this mask provide gentle, soothing pressure, but it’s infused with lavender to help promote even more relaxation. It’s made from smooth satin, so it’s as gentle on skin as it is on your senses.

• Available colors: 3

Sometimes a little extra coziness can be soothing, in which case you might want to don these luxurious cloud socks. Available in six colors, they’re made from fuzzy knit fabric for extreme comfort and softness. Wear them alone or with your favorite slippers, or you can layer them under your favorite boots for a cute look, too.

• Available colors: 6

Another great pocket-size distraction, these magnetic fidget ring toys help keep your hands busy as you flip, twirl, and spin them. Made from BPA-free materials, they’re lightweight and compact, but the heavy-duty magnets help ensure they stick together as you fiddle with them. Keep them in your desk or in your purse for on-the-go use.

• Available colors: 4

If you want some inspiration when it comes to managing anxious thoughts, give these stress-relief and self-care cards a try. Featuring 52 easy exercises for mindfulness, meditation, and relaxation, the card set was designed by therapists and yoga experts. Suitable for all ages, they aim to help you learn to focus on breathing, body awareness, and positive visualizations. They boast a 4.6-star overall rating — one reviewer wrote, “I really love these cards. They are a great way to pause during your day just for a few moments and implement a simple stress relief activity.”

If physical touch is soothing for you, you might enjoy this hand massage tool. On one end, you’ll find a dual-sided finger massager and on the other, you’ll find a larger roller to target your palms. Besides giving you a moment to concentrate on caring for your body, it may help promote circulation and alleviate soreness.

If certain scenarios cause you stress — like things that go bump in the night or taking the trash out after dark — keep this mini flashlight on hand. It’s small enough to stick in your bag, but provides bright illumination. Pop in a battery and you’re good to.

If box breathing is a practice in your tool kit, you may enjoy having this pillow cover around as a helpful reminder to put it to use. (You can even hug it at the same time if that brings you extra comfort.) If you’re not familiar with box breathing, it’s a style of breath work rooted in yogic tradition; according to health experts, it may help lower stress hormones and help stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system — i.e., the opposite of “fight or flight.” The pillow case comes in an 18-by-18-inch size and features a cozy flannel material.

Not only is this car ornament adorable, but it actually doubles as an essential oil diffuser, too, so you can reap the benefits of aromatherapy, even on the road. The ornament is handmade by artisans, and style options include bright, cheerful colors as well as earthy, calming tones. Prepare them with just a few drops of essential oil to diffuse your favorite scent through your car, then hang from your vent or rearview mirror.

• Available colors: 11

Create some soothing sound in your space with this hand chime. Gently tap the mallet to the metal rod to create a clear, peaceful tone that reverberates throughout the room. The chime comes nestled in a cherry-finished holder.

Many sleep experts stress the importance of having a truly darkened room, which means covering up those glowing electronic LEDs. Thankfully, these LED light-blocking stickers make the job easy, whether you use them on your router, alarm clock, or air purifier. Just peel and stick the static-cling sticker over any light you’d rather not see and it will block light by up to 80%, while still allowing you to read the display.

Whether you use it for seated meditation, yoga, or just to relax during some grounding, this biscuit cushion is a great addition to your self-care arsenal. Measuring 17 by 16 inches, it has a 3-inch thickness for lots of support. The tufted design adds a chic element, so you can leave it out as decor when not in use.

• Available colors: 2

If you hold tension in your body, this stretching tool may be a helpful way to keep things looser. This nonstretch strap is outfitted with multiple loops — insert a hand or foot and tug to create a deeper stretch than you could get on your own. This strap is popular on Amazon, where it’s earned a 4.7-star overall rating.