Have you heard of “worry stones” before? A worry stone is a stone that you can carry in your pocket (or anywhere on you) that can be useful in helping to relieve anxiety or other negative feelings. Worry stones are also know as palm stones or thumb stones and are smooth, polished gemstones, usually in the shape of an oval with a thumb-sized indentation. They usually are about the size of a 1/2 dollar coin and can be easily hidden in your hand.
They are often used by holding the stone between your fingers and thumb and gently rubbing your thumb back and forth across the stone. This action can be very grounding and comforting. Also the act of self-soothing can be quite empowering. It is often the smallest objects and actions that have the most powerful effects!
Worry stones come in many colors and can be found from many sources. There are gemstone stores and Etsy sells worry stones for under $5.
Do you think a worry stone may help you or your adolescent? Do you know anyone who uses a worry stone? Do you or your child know or participate in a similar coping mechanism? Tell us about your experiences or if you’d add this coping mechanism to your tool box!
