What are incentives ?

Stimuli are all the signals that come through your senses—sound, light, smell, touch, and emotion. Your brain normally filters this information automatically, so you only perceive what's important. When that filter becomes overloaded, everything comes in at once—leading to tension, fatigue, and overstimulation.

Who will be affected ?

Children and young people with a sensitive nervous system

They often experience sound, light, or emotions more intensely. School, crowds, or change can quickly become too much.

Adults with stress or overtiredness

Prolonged tension weakens the brain's filter. Even small stimuli can trigger stress.

People with autism, ADHD or HSP

Their nervous system responds more strongly and for longer periods to stimuli. Structure and deep pressure help restore balance.

Elderly or people in recovery

After illness or brain changes, the brain responds more sensitively to sound and touch. Gentle pressure and recognition bring calm.

 
 
Jongen op de bank ontspant met Hugsback verzwaarde knuffelbeer en olifant voor rust en comfort

Why do we get overstimulated ?

When too many stimuli arrive simultaneously, the brain loses its filter. Things that normally remain in the background—sounds, light, movement—suddenly all hit with equal force. The body reacts as if threatened: breathing quickens, muscles tense, and concentration lapses. Those who often experience overstimulation recognize the feeling of a racing mind or a body that can no longer relax.

When do you notice the signals most strongly?

After a busy day or social activity

When the silence returns, all the impressions come in at once. The head feels full, and the tension lingers.

In noisy or busy environments

Loud noise, conversations, or bright lights create a constant stream of stimuli. The brain becomes overloaded, and the body reacts with fatigue or irritation.

In case of sudden changes in environment

New situations, unexpected events or travel can disrupt the sense of control and increase overstimulation.

During moments of emotional stress

Strong emotions make the nervous system more sensitive. As a result, even ordinary stimuli are perceived more intensely than usual.

 
 

How can you bring more peace ? (4 steps)

  • Recognize the signs of overstimulation

    Pay attention to fatigue, tense muscles, or the feeling that "everything is too much." These are early signs that rest is needed.

  • Use the Hugsback weighted cuddly toy

    The deep pressure calms the nervous system and activates the parasympathetic system — which provides restoration and relaxation.

  • Reduce external stimuli

    Turn down the sounds, dim the lights, and create a safe space. The hug helps slowly release tension.

  • Schedule short recovery moments

    Rest periods spread throughout the day prevent the body from overflowing. A few minutes of deep pressure can make a difference.

    During overstimulation at home or at work

    The deep pressure helps to reduce tension and brings the brain back into balance.

    After social or busy days

    The cuddly toy provides support and helps to reduce tension, so that relaxation becomes possible again.

    During moments of rest or sleep problems

    The constant pressure supports the nervous system in recovery and promotes deep, natural rest.

    How does Hugsback help with stimulus processing?

    Discover in which situations our weighted cuddly toys make the biggest difference — from moments of overstimulation to restoring focus and inner peace.

    Discover it yourself
     
     

    Scientific substantiation

    Proven support for sensory regulation

    Research results at a glance :

    71%

    of users with sensory sensitivity experienced less overstimulation due to weight-bearing pressure (American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 2021).

    56%

    reported increased focus and calmness in busy environments after using weighted toys (Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 2020).

    68%

    had faster recovery moments after overstimulation (Sensory Processing Research Review, 2023).

    Results based on studies of sensory integration and deep pressure therapy.

    Experiences : more balance with stimulus sensitivity

    • ★★★★★

      Less quickly overstimulated

      Busy days take less energy since I started using the Hugsback occasionally. It helps me recover faster.

      — Ella T.

    • ★★★★★

      Finally balance after work

      After long days with lots of noise, I notice I relax more quickly. The hug helps my mind switch off.

      — Rick J.

    • ★★★★★

      More peace with my son

      He gets less upset after school and asks for his stuffed animal himself. The difference is really noticeable.

      — Lotte M.

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