Chinese therapy or baoding balls date back to the Ming dynasty (1358 to 1644). Before their invention, soldiers and the general public exercised their hands by rolling walnuts. Nowadays, most therapy balls are made of metal and usually hollow inside. When manipulated, they produce a pleasant chiming sound.

Rolling the balls in one's hand is believed to activate different therapeutic pressure points in the palm, thereby increasing the flow of energy. It may also help relax joints, ease anxiety, and improve dexterity.

These high quality baoding balls came in an elegant ebony brocade box. Gift to someone on a special birthday to wish them a long and healthy life, a loved one who could use some relaxation, or the zen master who always use another way to meditate.

Available in a variety of designs, each full of meaning:

• Yin and yang — Balance and harmony
• Dragon and phoenix — These symbols of marital bliss embody harmony
• Butterfly — Love and freedom
• Longevity — Long life
• Peony — Riches, royalty, and honor

A "plain" chrome design is also available for the minimalist in your life.

All the therapy balls:

• Come in a black brocade box
• Include a black felt enclosure
• Are two balls per box