Assessment of the Effectiveness of the Innovative Natural Product: Stress Relief Pillow for Stress Reduction and Muscle Relaxation

Supisara  Chunprawat; Peerada  Damapong; Pongmada  Damapong; Tanawat  Chaiphongpachara; Nantana  Suwandittakul; Arina  Abdulloh; Sedthapong  Laojun

Supisara Chunprawat Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University
Peerada Damapong Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University
Pongmada Damapong Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University
Tanawat Chaiphongpachara Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University
Nantana Suwandittakul Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University
Arina Abdulloh Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University
Sedthapong Laojun Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University

Keywords: Stress Relief Pillow, Innovation, natural products, coconut shells

Abstract

The Stress Relief Pillow is an innovation developed from natural materials, specifically coconut shells, which are designed to form small massage balls. These balls mimic manual massage techniques traditionally used in Thai Traditional Medicine, focusing on the neck and head muscles. This pilot study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the Stress Relief Pillow in reducing stress and improving muscle relaxation. The study included 10 volunteers aged over 18 years, who used the pillow for 10 minutes daily over a period of five days. Outcome measurements were assessed using the Stress Score Assessment (SSA), Cervical Range of Motion (CROM), and Heart Rate Variability (HRV). The results of repeated measures ANOVA (p < 0.05) demonstrated statistically significant improvements across four time points: baseline, immediately after use, after day 1, and after day 5 of pillow use. For instance, CROM showed an increasing trend with the SDNN values as follows: ????̅ (SD) = 20.66 (10.48), 21.99 (9.74), 24.69 (12.32), and 26.00 (10.52), respectively. Furthermore, HRV analysis revealed an improvement in parasympathetic nervous system function, which is associated with reduced tension, decreased neck muscle discomfort, and lower stress levels among participants.