Do you ever find yourself tossing and turning at night, unable to get comfortable? Or do you wake up feeling restless and unrested? If so, you might be one of the many people who could benefit from sleeping with a weighted blanket. Weighted blankets are becoming an increasingly popular tool for alleviating the symptoms of sleep disorders, thanks to their ability to help people feel calm and relaxed. Keep reading to learn more about how weighted blankets can help you get a good night's sleep!

WHAT ARE WEIGHTED BLANKETS AND HOW DO THEY WORK?

A weighted blanket is a type of comforter or quilt that is filled with glass beads and designed to distribute small amounts of weight evenly across the surface of the body. This helps to provide gentle pressure that mimics the feeling of being hugged or held by another person, which can be extremely relaxing for many people.

Additionally, the chambers in these blankets are quite small, so the beads inside will not move around too much, making it easier to stay comfortably wrapped in the blanket without shifting constantly. Whether used for sleep or simply to unwind after a long day, a weighted blanket is an excellent way to achieve a state of calm and relaxation.

Weighted Blanket Benefits

WHO CAN BENEFIT?

A weighted blanket can be beneficial for several conditions and disorders, including chronic pain, sensory processing disorder, and restless leg syndrome. The deep pressure stimulation provided by the heavy weight in the blanket stimulates the body's pressure receptors in a calming way, allowing individuals with chronic pain to find relief from their symptoms.

Moreover, individuals with sensory processing disorders often have difficulty regulating their sensory input, resulting in either hypo- or hypersensitivity. Weighted blankets work by activating the parasympathetic nervous system--the part that is responsible for rest and relaxation.

Finally, many people experience restless leg syndrome at night, which can be disruptive and occasionally even painful. By providing an additional sense of safety and comfort, a weighted blanket can help relieve some of the symptoms associated with this condition as well, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep through the night.

DEEP PRESSURE STIMULATION

When we are under stress, we experience an increase in the stress hormone cortisol. Weighted blankets provide deep pressure therapy, which can help to activate the nervous system and reduce cortisol levels for a calming effect. This can lead to a reduction in stress and anxiety symptoms, an improvement in overall sleep quality, and an increase in the ability to concentrate and focus on tasks.

These anxiety-reducing properties can also provide relief from conditions like post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT WEIGHTED BLANKET FOR YOU

When choosing a weighted blanket, it is important to consider the weight and size of the blanket. The weight of the blanket should be enough to provide pressure without being too heavy. A good rule of thumb is to take 10% of your body weight and round up if necessary.

The size of the blanket should be large enough to cover your entire body, without hanging over the sides or end of the bed. It is also important to choose a weighted blanket made from a breathable material such as cotton. This will help to prevent you from getting too hot during the night.

HOW TO USE A WEIGHTED BLANKET

To get the most out of your weighted blanket, it is important to use it as directed. When using it for sleep, it is generally recommended to start with 15-20 minutes at a time. If you find that you are struggling to fall asleep, you can gradually increase the amount of time you spend using the blanket. It is also important to make sure that the blanket is not too hot or too cold. The ideal temperature for a weighted blanket is around 65 degrees Fahrenheit.

ARE WEIGHTED BLANKETS SAFE FOR KIDS?

Weighted blankets can be used by both children and adults. However, it is important to choose one that is the right size and weight for your child. Weighted blankets are not suitable for very young children and should never be placed on a child under the age of 2. If you are considering using a weighted blanket for your child, talk to your child's doctor first.

WHAT ARE THE RISKS?

There are some risks associated with using a weighted blanket. These risks include suffocation, entrapment, and over-heating. It is important to make sure that the blanket you choose is the right size and weight for you. If you have any questions or concerns about weighted blankets, talk to your doctor or therapist.

THE FINAL WORDS

We hope this guide has helped you learn more about weighted blankets and how to choose and use one for the best results. Bare Home offers weighted blankets in a variety of sizes and weights to suit your needs. Choose between a 100% cotton or minky fleece exterior in a color you love. Ready to try one out? Shop our collection here and enjoy restful sleep tonight!

COOL SCIENCE STUFF

Effects of deep pressure stimulation