In recent years, weighted blankets have gained popularity as a health and wellness trend. The materials used to fill these blankets, such as plastic pellets or glass beads, add weight. Weighted blankets, in contrast to ordinary blankets, apply light pressure akin to a reassuring hug. In addition to stimulating your neurological system, this deep contact pressure has several other health advantages. We will look at seven incredible ways that using a weighted blanket can enhance your health in this post.
1. Lessens tension and worry
The main purpose of weighted blankets is to make individuals feel less stressed and anxious. Your body experiences a relaxing impact from the deep pressure of the blanket, which can help you feel less stressed. Your body releases cortisol, commonly referred to as the “stress hormone,” when you are nervous or agitated. Physical issues including high blood pressure, a compromised immune system, and trouble sleeping can be brought on by elevated cortisol levels.
A weighted blanket works by energizing your parasympathetic nervous system, which lowers cortisol levels. The ability of your body to relax is managed by this system. It causes your breathing to deepen, your heart rate to decrease, and your overall mood to become more serene. After just a few minutes of sleeping beneath a weighted blanket, a lot of users say they feel less worried.
How It Operates
The weighted blanket’s light pressure simulates “deep touch pressure,” a therapeutic method that has been demonstrated to calm the nervous system. Both anxiety and cortisol levels are lowered by this relaxation. A weighted blanket can be a useful tool to help manage stress and anxiety problems, whether they are caused by work-related stress or other issues.
2. Enhances the Quality of Sleep
Health benefits from sleep, yet many people have trouble getting to sleep or remaining asleep. A great remedy for people with insomnia or other sleep-related problems is to use weighted blankets. Melatonin and serotonin, two chemicals that aid in controlling sleep, are produced in greater amounts when the deep pressure of the blanket is applied.
Melatonin informs your body when it is time to go to sleep, whereas serotonin is a “feel-good” hormone that elevates mood and encourages relaxation. A weighted blanket can help you fall asleep more quickly and remain asleep longer by elevating these hormones.
Improving Sleep for Insomniacs
It can change a person’s life to use a weighted blanket if they have sleeplessness. It is simpler for the mind to go asleep at night when there is a sense of security and tranquility created by the blanket. You will not be rolling about in bed; instead, you will find yourself falling asleep soundly.
3. Diminishes Depression Symptoms
A mental health disorder known as depression affects millions of individuals globally. Along with chronic feelings of melancholy, loss of energy, and difficulty sleeping are common symptoms of depression in many people. You can get some relief from these symptoms by using a weighted blanket.
The deep pressure touch of a weighted blanket boosts serotonin production. In addition to improving the quality of sleep, serotonin is essential for maintaining a stable mood. A sense of comfort is provided by the blanket’s steady, soft pressure, which can lessen depressing or hopeless feelings.
The Benefits of a Weighted Blanket
It is frequently difficult to feel motivated or to enjoy life when one is depressed. On the other hand, using a weighted blanket can offer some emotional and mental solace. While it might not be a panacea for depression, it can undoubtedly be a beneficial component of a more comprehensive treatment strategy.
4. Peace Hyperactivity in ADHD Individuals
Adults and children alike can be impacted by Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). ADHD sufferers frequently experience difficulties with hyperactivity, impulsivity, and focus. Some find it difficult to focus on work or maintain composure in particular circumstances as a result of these symptoms. An aid item is a weighted blanket.
Weighted blankets are recommended by numerous therapists and medical specialists for individuals with ADHD, particularly children. The pressure of the blanket has a relaxing effect that can aid in lowering hyperactivity and boosting concentration. A weighted blanket may make it simpler for an ADHD sufferer to sit still, unwind, or focus on chores.
Helpful for Adults and Children
Although adults can also benefit from weighted blankets, children with ADHD are frequently advised to use them. A weighted blanket may induce relaxation and enhance concentration and productivity whether used at home, at work, or in an educational setting.
5. Assists in Managing Sensory Processing Disorder Symptoms
The disorder known as sensory processing disorder (SPD) causes problems for the brain in terms of taking in and processing information from the senses. Individuals with SPD may exhibit excessive sensitivity to light, sound, or touch. Everyday sensory encounters may overwhelm them, which can cause discomfort or worry.
Using weighted blankets is common in sensory integration therapy. The blanket’s deep touch pressure aids in calming and organizing the nervous system. For those with SPD, this may make it simpler for them to process sensory data without being overwhelmed.
Comforting and Grounding
For people with SPD, the consistent, gentle pressure from a weighted blanket can be incredibly grounding. It provides a sense of security and stability that helps to reduce sensory overload and anxiety.
6. Relieves Symptoms of Restless Leg Syndrome
Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) is a condition that causes an uncontrollable urge to move your legs, especially at night. This can make it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep. The symptoms of RLS can range from mild discomfort to severe pain, and they often worsen when you’re trying to relax.
A weighted blanket can help relieve the symptoms of RLS by applying gentle, even pressure to the legs. This pressure can reduce the sensations that trigger the urge to move your legs. As a result, people with RLS may find it easier to relax and fall asleep.
Pressure That Soothes
The deep pressure stimulation from the weighted blanket helps to calm the nervous system and reduce the discomfort caused by RLS. It’s a simple but effective way to manage this condition and improve sleep quality.
7. Boosts Mental Clarity and Focus
In today’s fast-paced world, maintaining mental clarity and focus can be challenging. Whether you’re working, studying, or simply going about your day, distractions can easily take your attention away from important tasks. A weighted blanket can help improve focus and concentration.
The calming effect of the blanket reduces stress and anxiety, which can improve mental clarity. When your body is relaxed, it’s easier for your brain to focus on the task at hand. This is especially helpful for people who experience brain fog, difficulty concentrating, or work in high-stress environments.
Improved Focus at Work or School
Whether you’re a student trying to focus on your studies or an employee working in a busy office, using a weighted blanket during breaks can help you recharge. The calming pressure of the blanket gives your mind the break it needs to refocus and continue with your tasks.
Conclusion
Weighted blankets are more than just a cozy addition to your bed; they offer a variety of health benefits that can improve your mental and physical well-being. From reducing stress and anxiety to helping with sleep disorders and improving focus, the gentle pressure from these blankets can make a significant difference in your daily life. Whether you’re dealing with a specific condition like ADHD or RLS, or you simply want to enhance your relaxation and sleep, a weighted blanket could be a game-changer for your health.
If you’re considering a weighted blanket, it’s essential to choose the right weight for your body size. Generally, a blanket should be around 10% of your body weight for optimal benefits. With the right blanket, you can enjoy better sleep, reduced stress, and an overall improvement in your health.