7 health benefits of weighted blankets: from stress relief to better sleep
Weighted blankets have evolved from a cozy comforter to a health and wellness must-have for people who want to sleep better, feel less stressed, and even improve their mental health. Wondering how these hefty blankets became the chicest item to have in your home? Let's get into the science-based perks and practical reasons why a weighted blanket may be exactly what you need.
1. Offers stress relief
Weighted blankets mimic the sensation of a comforting hug, an effect known as deep pressure stimulation (DPS). When you snuggle under the weight, your body releases feel-good hormones like serotonin while reducing the stress hormone cortisol.
Deep touch pressure helps your nervous system shift out of "fight-or-flight" mode, making you feel calmer and more grounded. So, whether you're going through a stressful workday or anxious moments, a therapeutic weighted blanket can help you unwind and find your center.
2. Promotes better sleep quality
If you struggle with tossing and turning at night, weighted blankets can help. The gentle pressure encourages you to move your body into a relaxed state, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep. Weighted blankets work by promoting the production of melatonin, the hormone responsible for sleep.
For the best experience, choose a blanket that is about 10% of your body weight. Anything heavier or lighter might disrupt your sleep and reduce its effectiveness. Whether you're suffering from sleep disorders or restless leg syndrome, a weighted blanket can help you get restful sleep.
3. Eases anxiety
While anxiety can be overwhelming, using a weighted blanket serves as a simple way to help manage its symptoms. Studies have shown that deep pressure stimulation can decrease heart rate and eliminate the physiological symptoms of anxiety.
Whether you deal with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety, or the occasional jitters before a big event, wrapping yourself in a weighted blanket can provide a sense of safety, helping to calm your mind and body and reduce stress.
4. Calms symptoms of sensory processing disorders
Sensory processing disorders (SPD), such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or autism spectrum disorder, can make everyday sensations feel overwhelming. For children and adults with sensory issues, weighted blankets can be particularly beneficial.
The consistent, gentle weight offers sensory input that can help the nervous system regulate itself, creating a feeling of calm and balance. For children, smaller, fun-sized weighted blankets are both practical and enjoyable tools for managing sensory needs.
5. Offers pain relief
Weighted blankets aren't just about mental health—they can also help with physical discomfort. The pressure can stimulate circulation and relax tense muscles, offering relief for those suffering from chronic pain or conditions such as fibromyalgia or arthritis.
Beyond that, the soothing weight may reduce the need for painkillers, making it a natural weapon in your pain relief arsenal. Some people even use weighted blankets after workouts to ease sore muscles and speed up recovery.
6. Improves focus for ADHD
Staying focused can be challenging for children and adults with ADHD. Weighted blankets have been known to improve focus while working, studying, or in therapy. The calming pressure helps reduce hyperactivity and sensory overload, thus naturally increasing focus and productivity.
Placing a weighted blanket over your lap during work-from-home days can be a subtle yet effective way to stay on task. Many therapists recommend them to create a more focused and calming environment.
7. Supports PTSD recovery
For individuals recovering from trauma or living with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a weighted blanket's safety and comfort can be life-altering. The pressure helps regulate the overactive nervous system, allowing the body to feel more relaxed, even during challenging times.
Research shows deep pressure stimulation can lower the symptoms of PTSD, including insomnia and hyperarousal. Whether you are using it during mindfulness practices, as you get ready to go to bed, or when you are feeling distressed, a weighted blanket is a powerful tool for healing and grounding.
Invest in high-quality weighted blankets with Drowsy
Weighted blankets aren't just a fad—they're a practical, science-backed way to enhance your health and wellbeing. From boosting your serotonin and melatonin levels to improving your focus and reducing stress, the weighted blanket benefits are undeniable.
If you're serious about investing in a top-notch blanket, Drowsy weighted blankets are the obvious choice. Crafted from premium 22 momme mulberry silk with precision glass beads and sustainable double-padded bamboo, they're what sweet dreams are made of.
Wrap yourself in 8.5kg of weighted heaven for an unrivaled sleeping experience. Choose from the Dusty Gold, Midnight Blue, or Moonlight Shadow silk-weighted blankets and elevate your sleeping experience like never before. For the best results, pair your weighted blanket with a Drowsy silk sleep mask for quality sleep.
