Hugsback verzwaarde knuffelbeer en olifant bieden comfort en rust in een warme omhelzing

What is stress ?

Stress is the body's natural response to pressure or tension. When faced with a threat, the body produces adrenaline and cortisol—helpful in the short term, but detrimental if prolonged. Long-term stress can lead to fatigue, sleep problems, and nervous system overstimulation.

Who will be affected ?

Workers and students

High expectations, deadlines and performance pressure ensure that the body remains constantly “on”.

Parents and caregivers

Caring for others makes it difficult to relax yourself. Moments of rest often slip away unconsciously.

Young people and students

Social pressure, exams and constant stimuli through screens cause tension and unrest.

People in recovery or change

After illness, loss or major changes, the nervous system needs time to regain balance.

 
 

Why does the body become tense during stress?

The stress system automatically activates under pressure, fear, or tension. The heart beats faster, muscles tense, and breathing quickens. Without a moment to recover, the body remains in "alarm mode," causing tension to build. This built-up tension is precisely what Hugsback helps release—through gentle, deep pressure that calms the nervous system.

When do you notice the signals most strongly?

In the evening or before going to bed

When it finally becomes quiet, thoughts start flowing and tension really becomes palpable.

During busy periods or deadlines

Prolonged concentration or performance pressure does not allow the body to relax for a moment.

In case of unexpected events

Sudden stress — such as bad news or time pressure — immediately triggers the physical stress response.

When moments of rest are missing

Lack of sleep, relaxation or breaks causes stress to build up and the body to become overloaded.

 
 
  • Recognize the signs of tension

    Pay attention to rapid breathing, tense muscles, or loss of concentration. Awareness is the first step toward recovery.

  • Use the Hugsback weighted cuddly toy

    The gentle, weighted pressure encourages relaxation through deep pressure. This helps slow heart rate and breathing and release tension.

  • Create a calm environment

    Turn off screens, dim the lights, and breathe calmly. The hug reinforces the feeling of safety and presence.

  • Give yourself moments of recovery

    Stress doesn't disappear overnight. Consciously take short breaks where you can truly be still—that's where recovery begins.

    During moments of work or performance pressure

    The deep pressure of Hugsback helps to reduce body tension and restore focus.

    Recovering after a long day

    The hug helps smooth the transition from activity to rest. Breathing slows, muscles relax.

    In case of anxiety or worrying thoughts

    Hugsback sends a safe signal to the brain. The constant pressure reduces anxiety and creates a sense of calm.

    How does Hugsback help with stress?

    Discover in which situations our weighted cuddly toys make all the difference — from busy workdays to quiet evenings where tension can finally subside.

    Discover it yourself
     
     

    Scientific substantiation

    Proven to reduce stress levels

    Research results at a glance :

    32%

    less cortisol (stress hormone) after 15 minutes of heavy pressure (Temple University, 2020).

    41%

    of participants reported feeling calmer after briefly applying deep pressure via a weighted hug (Journal of Physiological Anthropology, 2019).

    74%

    Felt physically more relaxed and experienced less muscle tension (Frontiers in Psychology, 2022).

    Results based on studies of physiological effects of deep pressure.

    • ★★★★★

      More relaxation after a busy day

      After work, I notice that the weighted hug helps release tension. My shoulders literally drop.

      — Lotte V.

    • ★★★★★

      Helps with overstimulation

      Whenever I get overstimulated, the pressure from the Hugsback provides instant relief. It's like my body is finally getting a break. I'm so incredibly happy with it and definitely recommend it!

      — Daan S.

    • ★★★★★

      Calmness in stressful moments

      I use my Hugsback every night before bed—it helps me stop overthinking and wind down faster. I named it Brownie the Bear.

      — Iris M.

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