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Toys to Keep at Work to Reduce Stress

It might be the result of anything from an irritating co-worker to an ever-increasing workload, but it's almost inevitable that most people will get stressed out in their workplace occasionally. There are plenty of views about what can relieve this stress, but sometimes what you need on your desk is simply a toy to take it out on. Whether you're squashing a stress ball or solving a puzzle, it's amazing how relaxed a toy can help you to feel.

Hoberman Sphere
- A potent symbol of modern design, the Hoberman Sphere was invented by Chuck Hoberman and has since amazed people of all ages with its clever combination of mathematics and mechanics. Versions of the Hoberman Sphere have appeared in many guises, and are now available for a home or work environment. Using a pulley system incorporated into its design, Hoberman Spheres---typically made of plastic---can be expanded to up to three times their original size. At full size, a Hoberman Sphere might have a diameter of up to 32 inches, while in its collapsed state, that same Sphere would measure only 10 inches in diameter. Achieving this transformation is not only a method of physical stress relief, but the fascinating Sphere also helps to distract attention away from the cause of stress.
  
  Hoberman Sphere models are available in a number of designs, including rainbow, glowing and micro varieties. A typical Sphere retails at roughly $30, as of September 2010.
Transformers
- Transformers, based on the hit television and movie series, occupy the mind while providing a physical outlet for stress release. These toys change from one shape---typically a vehicle, such as a car or truck---to another form, often a robot, simply by adjusting some of the figure's parts. The process of transforming the figure engages the brain while also giving the hands something to do, a combination that, as the Ideas and Training website points out, can help keep anxiety at bay.
  
  These toys are available in a range of designs and at different prices; for example, a deluxe figure of the character 'Sideswipe' is available at $27.99 as of September 2010.
Bendable Figures
- A bendable figure is similar to the design of the classic stress ball. These figures are typically a few inches tall and highly flexible: you can push and pull them around to relieve your stress, and they'll stay in one piece. When you've finished taking out your work-related frustrations, you can pose your figure and place it on your desk. Bendable figures range in design from smiling yellow men to versions of famous cartoon and movie characters. A basic bendable figure retails at $7.99, as of September 2010.

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