So, you've probably heard of weighted blankets by now, but you're still sitting on the fence pondering what they are, if they really work, and if they are what you actually need? Well, you are not alone. Weighted blankets have become quite popular over the last few years, many therapists and therapy clinics even recommend them for their patients. Now, with these blankets readily available outside clinical settings, it's understandable that consumers would want to know what these blankets are and their actual benefits.

What Is A Weighted Blanket?

From the look of them, weighted blankets are no different from your typical duvet. They are made from linen, cotton, and other materials that you would typically find in other bed covers and blankets. However, weighted blankets are filled with special material which makes them heavy and provide a gentle but firm pressure, which studies show has a variety of health benefits. Weighted blankets create DTP (Deep Touch Pressure) or DPS (Deep Pressure Simulation) to calm the nervous system and improve relaxation.

You'll find that there are weighted blankets for both kids and adults, they are based on how heavy the weighted blanket is, which should be about 7% to 12% of your body weight.

The Benefits Of Weighted Blankets

Comfy mattress? Check. Soft pillow? Check. Temperature-regulating bed sheets? Check. Supportive bed frame? Quadruple check. It's easy to think that your bed is packed with the best sleep technology, but what about the blanket? One of the essential pieces of the sleep puzzle is your blanket. Pick the wrong one, and you'll end up trading more than 50 winks for restless tossing.

The blanket you choose can be incredibly valuable. After all, it impacts one of the most crucial things in one's life – a person's sleep, the quantity, and quality of which has a significant impact on your health and wellness.

Here's how you can benefit from weighted blankets:

1. Helps Alleviate Restless Leg Syndrome

If you've ever experienced Restless Leg Syndrome, also called Willis-Ekbom Disease, you know that it can have devastating effects on your sleep pattern. Restless leg syndrome causes tingling and what can be described as a "creeping sensation" that makes it very uncomfortable for those with the condition to sleep. RLS symptoms are worse when you go to bed, partially due to the body's overactive nervous system.

While some find comfort in using compression socks, many patients have said that these socks are extremely tight and often end up worsening the symptoms. On the other hand, weighted blankets offer relief because they use DTP, which helps calm the nervous system.

2. Eases Anxiety Induced Insomnia

Until you've stayed up until four o'clock in the morning for years, it's easy to dismiss a lack of sleep as something that needs a quick fix. If you're one of those people who find themselves with racing thoughts even after going to bed, then you understand that anxiety can cause not only insomnia but also affect your quality of sleep. Luckily, studies have shown that the use of weighted blankets helps inhibit the production of Cortisol (stress-inducing hormone) and instead stimulates the production of dopamine (the feel-good hormone), which means hours of blissful Z’s.

3. Reduces Stress

Stress can take a toll on your mental health, as well as your physical and emotional state. Weighted blankets help stimulate serotonin production thanks to the gentle pressure. This can help reduce stress and combat depression, which makes you feel better overall.

4. Improves Focus For ADHD Patients

Studies have shown that both adults and children with ADHD find that they can focus better when using weighted blankets. Attention deficit hyperactivity syndrome (ADHD) can cause restless sleep. Using weighted blankets with deep pressure therapy (DPT) helps create a calming and soothing effect, which helps improve focus in ADHD patients.

5. Helps With Sensory Processing Disorder

Sensory issues such as autism spectrum disorder are thought to be the result of a delay in brain signals causing anxiety attacks. Sensory disorders can get in the way of your life and can cause both behavioral and emotional turmoil. Using weighted blankets can help create a calming effect and ease this kind of anxiety.

6. Alleviates OCD

Obsessive-compulsive disorder is a condition where the patient suffers from obsessive thoughts and exhibits obsessive mannerisms. People with OCD tend to have difficulties falling asleep and staying asleep. Weighted blankets boost the production of melatonin and serotonin, both of which make it easier for you to relax, fall asleep, and have a restful sleep.

7. They Feel Like A Nice Hug!

Babies are not the only ones who respond better to hugs; even adults love hugs. This is because the body responds to contact made from a hug and releases oxytocin, which helps create a feeling of relaxation and also reduces an individual's blood pressure. Weighted blankets mimic a warm and cozy hug.

So what are you waiting for? Start enjoying quality sleep with the gentle pressure of a quality weighted blanket today!

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