As adults, we often find that sleeping instantly is hard to come by; our brains never shut off, which can cause insomnia. You’re considered lucky if you fall fast asleep the minute you place your head on the pillow. On the other hand, it’s not so easy for some people. That’s why there are so many methods introduced to bring about a good night’s sleep, and one of them is by using a weighted blanket. Yet, the question remains; can a weighted blanket help you sleep better at night?
What is a Weighted Blanket?
Using one of these babies has become very popular over the last few years among people who suffer from anxiety, depression, or insomnia. You can easily find many online providers or stores selling the Best Weighted Blankets for Adults that come in a variety of sizes, weights, and designs. These blankets range from 5 to 30 pounds, and they’re usually filled with pellets or glass sand. They’re like cozy comforters aimed to give you a feeling of being ‘hugged’ as you sleep, thus allowing you to relax completely.
There is no standard recommendation on which one to buy because it all depends on your needs. However, it’s always preferred to check with your physician if you can handle such a heavy blanket to prevent circulation issues or if you’re prone to low blood pressure.
Benefits of a Weighted Blanket
Many people and psychologists swear by its effects on our bodies and mental state as well as providing a desirable good night’s sleep. These benefits below prove how weighted blankets aid sleeps drastically.
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Reduces Anxiety
According to studies, weighted blankets offer what is known as deep pressure touch stimulation (DPTS), which allows a soothing and comfortable sensation as you sleep and encourages relaxation. The way it works is that it ultimately reduces activity in your nervous system and so, your anxiety is lessened as well. DPTS also helps with restlessness and ADHD symptoms by reducing the time it takes you to fall asleep.
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Releases Feel-Good Chemicals
Since the weighted blanket causes pressure on your body, which feels like a hug, it releases oxytocin in your body. This encourages relaxation and a sense of overall calmness. Oxytocin makes you feel at ease as it slows down your heart rate and lowers your blood pressure. Using this blanket also releases serotonin and dopamine, which reduces depression and calms your body.
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Lowers Stress
Using a weighted blanket reduces nighttime stress levels by lowering your cortisol, the hormone responsible for stress. When you’re stressed, you often face negative consequences like low-blood sugar as well as trouble with your immunity and digestion.
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Boosts Melatonin and Ends Insomnia
This blanket encourages melatonin, which is a hormone responsible for your sleep-wake cycle. Studies have also shown that those who suffer from insomnia have experienced better and longer sleep and woke up less at night when they used this blanket even for a few days.
Getting a blanket like this is actually quite therapeutic; it promotes better sleep, reduces anxiety and depression, and ends insomnia in some cases. If you’re suffering from troubled sleep at night, consider using a weighted blanket for support.