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It’s hard to estimate how much time I’ve spent watching slime-related Instagram Reels in recent years. The algorithm had long ago piqued my fascination with ASMR and, I’m assuming, sent me some smut videos, just to keep my eyes glued more to my screen. it worked.
In my defense, how could I not be mesmerized by the sights, sounds and textures, whether the video is of sandy hands kneading, gushing or depositing a satisfying glob of sherbet-looking stuff into an ice cream scoop?
Although I was extremely curious about what these slimes would taste like, I initially held myself back from purchasing any. I am 30 years old and look absolutely normal. I thought. Am I really going to spend the money I earn from my adult job to buy slimes?
The answer, of course, was yes.
Benefits of sensory play
Despite the societal conditioning that leads us to believe that squishy, glossy, bouncy, fluffy, or otherwise fun items should only be kids’, research says otherwise. Engaging in sensory activities can help you relax, reduce stressAnd control your moodAnd a variety of slimes, putties and doughs stimulate multiple senses at once – sight, sound, smell and touch. (Unfortunately, the rules haven’t changed since you were a kid: You can’t eat them.)
You’ve probably had sensory experiences in yoga class. Perhaps your teacher suggested you rub a few drops of essential oils between your palms or gently play an instrument. SavasanaThese rituals can help deepen your awareness of the present moment and turn your attention inward, such as holding, molding, or kneading a piece of slime or clay.
Some types of sensory dough can also help improve your grip strength, which is useful if you practice yoga or spend a lot of time at a keyboard.
5 Favorite Slimes, Putty and Dough for Stress Relief
Unlike other sensory activities, which may require your dedicated time and full attention, you can do it at any time (sorry, I had to do it), including during a Zoom meeting or while watching Netflix. .
So which type of slime is best for stress relief? The answer is whatever slime (or putty or dough) appeals to you most. Below are some of my favourites.
1. Momo Slimes – Assorted Slimes ($16-$20)
Responsible for my introduction into the slime side of Instagram, Momo Slimes has 1 million followers. Even a brief perusal of their comments reveals a dedicated fan base – and for good reason. Momo sells jars of slime with incredible textures and smells. Many are seasonal and Taylor Swift-themed, like bright pink and purple.cruel Summer“Mud and green bingsu-bead infused”‘It’s very bad weathermud.
I bought a Cherry Blossom Frappe, which is scented with sweet sakura and white peaches, filled with fake whipped cream and sprinkles before you crush it into a satisfying goop. Some of their slimes are made crunchy with sequins, beads or small toys. Others are impossibly smooth and shiny, like their jelly slimes. Since their slimes are seasonal, not all of them are available year-round, and they sell out very quickly.
2. Play-Doh, Assorted Colors for $8
If smell is one of the strongest triggers of memory, then getting the smell of a freshly opened container of Play-Doh is like taking a speed trip down memory lane. Sticky, moldable, and non-toxic, this kid-friendly clay is one of my top picks. (I keep one within arm’s reach during my workday.) If you value longevity in dough, it’s worth noting that Play-Doh can dry out after several months—even Even when stored in its original container.
3. Kinetic Sand for $12 ($16,
The design of this stuff is somewhat magical. It’s dense enough to hold its shape when you press or mold it, but light and airy enough to slip through your fingers and feel like you’re holding nothing. One online reviewer compared it to brown sugar that doesn’t dry out, which is pretty accurate. Another notes that the only downside is that it sticks to her sticky hands. Can confirm. On the positive side, Instagram reels of people playing with kinetic sand in creative ways can be just as satisfying as playing with it in real life.
4. Shilling Nee Doh Nice Cube for $9
If you’ve seen a boxed Nee Doh cube sitting casually in the checkout bins of grocery stores, Barnes & Noble, or Anthropologie, you’re missing things. These squishy cubes seem to be everywhere. This is the densest and most resistant sensory toy I have ever owned, so if you have sensitive hands or wrists, it’s best to use gentle movements (resist squeezing too tightly too quickly). Although Nee Doh now makes its squishy toys in “Teenie Dogs,” “Teenie Cats,” gum drops and even mini Santas, you can’t go wrong with the classic cube shape. My Nee Doh cube was a little cracked on the bottom, and sometimes a very sticky goo would ooze onto my hands, but that didn’t stop me from using it.
5. Pinch Me Therapy Dough for $30
Although the price of this jar of flour may induce some understandable sticker shock, fans of the brand consistently mention its long-lasting appeal. Pinch Me Therapy Dough comes in over 10 scents including Spice, Peachy and Beach. One reviewer says the texture is similar to Play-Doh but softer, and another says the scent is strong and natural-smelling. The dough also comes in “locket-shaped” containers on a key chain for play on the go.
The best way to tell which type of slime is best for stress relief is to follow your curiosity and try it. If you find that playing with a particular sensory dough occupies your mind and calms anxious thoughts – even if just for a few minutes – then chances are you’ve found the right dough for you.
