By the way . . . Hug a cushion to soothe exam nerves

CAN something as simple as hugging a cushion help reduce pre-exam nerves? According to a remarkable, recently published study, it can.

A team at Bristol University asked volunteers about to undergo an oral maths test in front of each other to rate their anxiety levels.

Some members of the group were then given a cushion which was embedded with a pneumatic chamber so that it expands and contracts, as though breathing.

Other volunteers were asked to do eight minutes of meditation, and the remainder were asked to sit quietly.

They then had to rate their anxiety levels again. Those given the cushion or who meditated were less anxious than those who did nothing.

So why would the cushion work? The researchers believe the hot water bottlesized cushion can help slow the breathing of the hugger as it feels like you are getting a hug from another living being. The technique is based on haptic technology — using physical touch or sensations to create an experience.

Weighted blankets, which are used to induce calm and encourage sleep, are also a form of haptic technology.

I feel this safe and effective way of dealing with anxiety has much relevance in these tumultuous times.