Are you tired of restless nights and not being able to get a good night’s sleep? Do you find yourself tossing and turning, or waking up multiple times throughout the night? There may be a solution for you – a weighted blanket.
Weighted blankets have become increasingly popular in recent years as a natural way to improve sleep and reduce anxiety. In this article, we’ll explore what a weighted blanket is, how it works, and the benefits it can provide.
What is a Weighted Blanket?
A weighted blanket is a type of blanket that is filled with materials such as glass beads, plastic pellets, or grains. These materials add weight to the blanket, typically ranging from 5 to 30 pounds, depending on the individual’s preferences.
The blanket is designed to distribute this weight evenly across the body, providing a sense of deep pressure touch.
How Does it Work?
The deep pressure touch provided by a weighted blanket is similar to the feeling of a hug or being held. This pressure can increase the release of serotonin in the body, which is known as the “feel-good” hormone.
Serotonin can help regulate mood, reduce anxiety, and improve sleep. In addition, the pressure can also increase the release of melatonin, which is a hormone that regulates sleep and wake cycles.
Benefits of Using a Weighted Blanket
1. Improves Sleep Quality: The deep pressure touch provided by a weighted blanket can improve sleep quality by reducing the number of times you wake up throughout the night.
Research has shown that using a weighted blanket can lead to a deeper, more restful sleep.
2. Reduces Anxiety: The pressure of a weighted blanket can have a calming effect on the body, reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation.
This can be particularly helpful for individuals with anxiety disorders or those who experience high levels of stress.
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3. Promotes Relaxation: The deep pressure touch provided by a weighted blanket can trigger the release of serotonin in the body, which can promote relaxation and reduce feelings of stress.
4. Helps with ADHD: Weighted blankets have been shown to improve focus and attention in individuals with ADHD. The deep pressure touch can help calm the body and mind, allowing for increased concentration.
5. Helps with Autism: Weighted blankets have also been shown to be helpful for individuals with autism. The deep pressure touch can provide a sense of comfort and security, reducing stress and promoting relaxation.
Choosing the Right Weighted Blanket
When choosing a weighted blanket, it’s important to consider your body weight. As a general rule of thumb, the blanket should be about 10% of your body weight. So, if you weigh 150 pounds, a 15-pound blanket would be appropriate.
It’s also important to choose a blanket that is the right size for your body. The blanket should cover your entire body, from shoulders to feet, without any gaps.
Caring for Your Weighted Blanket
Most weighted blankets come with a removable cover that can be washed in the washing machine. However, the inner weighted portion of the blanket should not be washed.
To keep your blanket clean, you can spot clean it with a damp cloth or use a fabric spray to freshen it up.
Conclusion
A weighted blanket can be a natural way to improve sleep, reduce anxiety, and promote relaxation. By providing deep pressure touch, a weighted blanket can trigger the release of hormones that regulate mood and sleep.
When choosing a weighted blanket, it’s important to consider your body weight and size. With proper care, a weighted blanket can be a valuable tool for improving your overall well-being.
