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By now, you’ve likely heard all the rage about weighted blankets… and you’ve also likely wondered how a blanket could possibly provide the incredible benefits these cozy accessories have been hailed for. After all, it’s just a blanket right? Well, not quite. Weighted blankets are a tool for improving sleep and mental health disorders, providing you with a sense of comfort and security. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, insomnia, or simply looking to improve your overall well-being, there’s plenty of scientific evidence supporting how these cozy items can give you the results you’re looking for. In this article, we explore the top weighted blanket benefits, the science behind them, and tips on choosing the best weighted blanket for you.
What is a Weighted Blanket?
A weighted blanket is a therapeutic heavy blanket typically filled with materials like glass beads or plastic pellets to add weight. This added weight is designed to provide deep touch pressure (DTP), which has been shown to have a calming effect on the nervous system.
How Weighted Blankets Work
The concept behind weighted blankets is similar to the feeling of being hugged or held. The gentle pressure from the blanket can stimulate the production of serotonin, reduce cortisol levels, and increase melatonin production, all of which contribute to improved mood and better sleep.
Studies also confirm that when you receive a hug or what feels like a hug from a weighted blanket, your body releases oxytocin (a hormone), reducing blood pressure, creating a feeling of relaxation and slowing your heart rate.
Who Are Weighted Blankets For?
Weighted blankets are perfect for anyone seeking a bit of extra comfort and relaxation in their lives. They’re especially beneficial for people with anxiety, insomnia, or stress, offering a soothing hug that can calm the mind and body. Those with sensory processing disorders, such as autism, often find weighted blankets incredibly helpful for providing a sense of security and grounding. Even if you’re simply looking to improve your sleep quality or add a cozy touch to your bedtime routine, weighted blankets can be a fantastic addition.
- Individuals with Anxiety
- People with Insomnia
- Those with High Stress
- Individuals with Sensory Processing Disorders, such as Autism
- Children and Adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- People with PTSD
- Elderly Individuals
- People With Sleep Problems, such as Insomnia
- Anyone Seeking Better Sleep
- People with Chronic Pain
- Those Who Love to Snuggle
14 Proven Weighted Blanket Benefits
Weighted blankets are all the rage right now, and it’s easy to see why. These cozy, therapeutic wonders are packed with perks that can seriously upgrade your daily life. Whether you’re looking to lower anxiety, catch some quality Z’s and improve sleep, or just snuggle up with a comforting blanket, the benefits of a weighted blanket are downright amazing. Get ready to dive into a world of relaxation and well-being—these blankets might just become your new best friend!
1. Reduced Anxiety
As someone with anxiety, one of the leading benefits of a weighted blanket is its ability to reduce anxiety. The deep pressure therapy can help calm the autonomic nervous system, leading to a decrease in anxiety and stress.
Weighted blankets also increase serotonin levels naturally, further helping to lower anxiety and stress.
Serotonin is a brain chemicals that many people with anxiety struggle with, often times, a deficient of some sort. Weighted blankets release more serotonin, allowing for a reduction in stress and an improvement in mood. These are the same effects experienced when pressure is applied to certain areas of the body, making this one of the best benefits of weighted blankets for anxiety.
2. Improved Sleep Quality
Weighted blankets are often used to treat sleep problems, like insomnia and other sleep disorders. The gentle pressure can help increase melatonin production, which promotes relaxation and helps regulate the sleep cycle. Many people also find that they can fall asleep faster and have more restful sleep when using a weighted blanket.
3. Enhances Mood
Using a weighted blanket can boost your mood too. The gentle pressure increases the production of oxytocin, a feel-good hormone, while also lowering cortisol, the stress hormone. This powerful combo can significantly improve your mood and state of mind. So, wrap yourself in a weighted blanket and let the good vibes flow!
4. Soothes PTSD Symptoms
For people with PTSD, weighted blankets can offer significant relief. The calming pressure can help reduce the frequency and intensity of nightmares, improve sleep quality, and provide a sense of safety and security.
5. Alleviates Restless Leg Syndrome
Restless Leg Syndrome causes involuntary and rapid leg movements, which often occurs when you’re trying to fall asleep. Applying pressure to the legs, such as with a weighted blanket, can help reduce these symptoms. The consistent pressure provides relief, making it easier to drift off to sleep peacefully.
6. Supports Autism Spectrum Disorder
Weighted blankets are also beneficial for people on the autism spectrum. The deep pressure stimulation can help reduce sensory overload, promote relaxation, and improve focus and concentration. This therapeutic relief also benefits those with other developmental disorders, making weighted blankets a versatile tool for enhancing well-being.
There are also weighted vests and weighted clothing for kids with autism.
7. Pain Relief
Weighted blankets can also help relieve chronic pain. The pressure they provide can ease muscle tension and promote relaxation, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals with conditions such as fibromyalgia or arthritis.
8. Calming Effects for ADHD
For individuals with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), weighted blankets can help improve focus and reduce hyperactivity. The deep pressure stimulation helps to calm the nervous system, making it easier to concentrate and stay on task.
9. Increases Focus and Concentration
Weighted blankets can improve focus and concentration for both young children and adults. The deep touch pressure can help calm the mind and body, making it easier to concentrate on tasks and activities.
10. Better Mental Health
Overall, the use of weighted blankets can lead to better mental health. By reducing anxiety, improving sleep, and enhancing mood, they contribute to a more balanced and healthy mental state.
11. Decreases Nervous System Activity
When the autonomic nervous system becomes overactive, it can trigger anxiety, hyperactivity, and various other issues. Weighted blankets can help put your nervous system into “rest mode,” reducing anxiety symptoms like shortness of breath and rapid heart rate. This calming effect helps to mitigate the physical and mental impacts of an overactive nervous system.
12. Helps With Fibromyalgia
People with chronic pain conditions like fibromyalgia often find relief with a weighted blanket. The gentle pressure can alleviate pain and discomfort, while also helping to break the cycle of anxiety and depression that frequently accompanies chronic illness.
13. Reduces Heart Rate
Touch therapy is known to decrease heart rate, and a weighted blanket brings this soothing benefit right to your bed. Acting like a big, cozy hug, it simulates touch therapy’s calming effects. This grounding sensation can be super helpful for easing anxiety symptoms or other conditions that cause a racing heart. So, snuggle up and let the blanket work its magic!
14. They Just Feel Good
Weighted blankets provide a comforting and secure feeling that can be beneficial for anyone. The sensation of being hugged or held can provide emotional comfort and a sense of safety, making these blankets a great addition to any self-care routine.
How to Choose the Right Weighted Blanket
Choosing the right weighted blanket is essential for maximizing its benefits. Here are some tips to help you find the perfect one:
1. Consider the Weight
This is, inarguably, the most important step to choosing the best weighted blanket, as the weight directly impacts how the blanket makes you feel. A general rule of thumb is to choose a blanket that is about 10% of your body weight. This ensures that the blanket provides enough pressure without being too heavy.
| BODY WEIGHT | BLANKET WEIGHT |
| 100 LBS | 10 LBS |
| 150 LBS | 15 LBS |
| 200 LBS | 20 LBS |
There are also weighted blankets for young children that are made with lower weights and fun fabrics.
2. Select the Right Material
Weighted blankets come in various materials, including cotton, fleece, and microfiber. Choose a material that feels comfortable against your skin and suits your climate.
Knitted weighted blankets are a popular choice, as the fabric is breathable. This gives you the weight you want without the thick, sweaty heat that often comes with traditional weighted blankets. Plus, they’re so darn chic!
Buy Now: Knit Weighted Blankets
3. Look for Quality Construction
Ensure that the blanket is well-constructed with evenly distributed weight. This will prevent the filling from shifting and ensure consistent pressure. An easy way to check this off the list is to stick with reputable brands, like Nuzzie.
Conclusion
The benefits of weighted blankets extend far beyond just feeling cozy. From reducing anxiety and improving sleep to enhancing mood and providing relief for various conditions, weighted blankets offer a cozy, effective solution for better mental health and well-being. If you’re looking for a natural, non-invasive way to improve your quality of life, a weighted blanket might just be the answer.
FAQs About Weighted Blankets
- What weight should my weighted blanket be? A good rule of thumb is to choose a blanket that is about 10% of your body weight. This will provide enough pressure to be effective without being uncomfortable.
- Can young children use weighted blankets? Yes, but it’s important to choose the right weight and size. Consult with a healthcare provider to ensure it’s appropriate for the child’s needs.
- How do I clean a weighted blanket? Most weighted blankets come with specific cleaning instructions. Many have removable, washable covers. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to maintain the blanket’s quality.
- Can weighted blankets help with chronic pain? Yes, the deep pressure stimulation can help alleviate some forms of chronic pain by promoting relaxation and reducing muscle tension.
- Are there any risks associated with using a weighted blanket? Weighted blankets are generally safe, but they should not be used by individuals with respiratory or circulatory issues without consulting a doctor.
- Do weighted blankets really improve sleep? Many people report significant improvements in sleep quality due to the calming effects of the deep pressure therapy provided by weighted blankets.
