Estimated reading time: 6 minutes
The internet and its omnipresence in today’s world and our lives has clearly divided us from previous generations. It, along with the extraordinary advancements in technology, have seen great strides being achieved by humankind. But let us not kid, there are days when you and I find our relationship with technology somewhat strained—with us envisioning our laptop or TV being the victim of a brutal assault.
This new form of stress and anxiety brought on by our digital counterparts is wreaking havoc in the new age. According to Dr Lisa Strohman, a psychologist and the founder of Digital Citizens Academy, a spike in the number of people visiting her practice over the past decade suffering from stress and anxiety disorders due to technology use, has been noted.
To make matters worse, people have found themselves battling to find a balance between their home life and careers. Being primarily due to the pandemic and having to work remotely—forcing more stress into our lives.
ScienceDirect explains that transitioning to home offices and using social media applications to interact with colleagues may challenge workers’ abilities to set borders between their work and private lives.
Then there is the impact of technology use on stress and work exhaustion. ScienceDirect points out that while technology enables organisational communication practices and knowledge sharing and advances, the invasive nature of technology and social media can induce technostress in workers.
Not allowing this new stream of stress to get the better of humans, situated at Shop 5, Balvista Centre on Sandra Road in Ballito, Smash It offers people an opportunity to smash various items, venting in a healthy and rewarding fashion.
Speaking to Tammy Chapman, the Newcastillian – Online News learns more about this unique and creative initiative, which Tammy and her partner, Samantha Thomas, established. Tammy explains, “Firstly, we are the third “rage” room and the first UV paint room in SA. We were officially three months old on 2 July. Sam and I were in Clarens with friends for Christmas, the girls took the kiddos out for the day, and we came across “Jan’s Smash Room”, which sounded interesting. Well, after the kids had a go, we all decided to try it too and it was absolutely amazing. We thought Ballito would definitely benefit from a smash room.”
Photo credit: Smash It 
Photo credit: Smash It 
Photo credit: Smash It 
Photo credit: Smash It
With one Smash room and one Splash room, Tammy explains how the business helps people deal with their frustrations. An ordinary Smash session consists of one large appliance, one small appliance and 20 bottles. “We have several items for sale, from windscreens – these are a huge hit, to cups, plates – which people love writing on, such as a few names, things they aren’t happy with. They are welcome to bring their own goodies, as long as they do not contain mercury or gas.”
Photo credit: Smash It 
Photo credit: Smash It
Although the idea of destroying things sounds extreme, Tammy declares that once you understand the concept and you give it a go, besides the physical release, which is very intense, hence the sessions only being 10 minutes, you will feel pretty satisfied and your stress levels will definitely be lower.
Such has been the impact of the smash sessions that she says, “We’ve had some pretty touching feedback and a few doctor referrals for both the Smash and Splash sessions. With the current lockdown and the stress over the last year, people need a release and we really do see the difference before and after.”
It is important to note, that Smash It only uses dead appliances and once the items are smashed, they are all responsibly recycled; whereby Tammy affirms, the metal goes to a local orphanage where they collect the scrap to sell.
With people surrounded by technology all day, she points out that destroying these items in a controlled environment offers satisfaction. “How many times have you thought about throwing your laptop or printer out the window? I definitely have, and there is some sort of *sigh* moment once you’ve destroyed something. My favourite is phones, printers and washing machines. We have had a lot of children bring their broken Xbox and Playstation remotes and consoles, they love smashing them.”
As for their Splash Room, being all about fun and relaxation., Tammy explains that Samantha came up with a UV paint room concept. “We noticed that a few people are more sensitive, and the smash sessions just didn’t make sense for them, so we wanted something to accommodate them and children under the age of eight.”
When you Splash, Smash It encourages messy clothes, although they do offer ponchos. “So many studies have been done showcasing the benefits of doing something creative. Once you go into the room, which is beautiful by the way, you get five different colours of glow-in-the-dark paint, a canvas, and various painting “tools,” states Tammy. It is up to our clients if they want to paint a picture, splash paint at it, have a paint war with their friends/family – anything goes. It really is a beautiful bonding session for families and friends. Just being in and enjoying the moment… that’s what it’s all about.”
Looking to the future, she says Smash It is eager to expand, as they have awesome room concepts. But to bring these ideas to fruition, they will need larger premises. “Once this dreaded pandemic has settled, we will be looking at moving into a bigger facility where we can offer some really exciting rooms and activities.”
To learn more about Smash It, you can visit them via the following social media platforms:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smashitballito/
- Instagram: @Smashitballito
- Website: http://www.smash-it.co.za/
What are your thoughts on Smash It and its creative way of dealing with the stresses we face today?
Share your views in the comment section below.
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