If you find yourself tossing and turning all night long, you might want to consider a weighted blanket. These specially designed blankets are becoming increasingly popular amongst those who suffer from a variety of sleep issues, those with anxiety, and even people without any issues at all just looking for an improved sleep experience. But what exactly makes these blankets so special? This post is here to take a look at some of the great benefits of using a weighted blanket!
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How Do Weighted Blankets Differ From Heavy Comforters?
Weighted blankets are the new trend in sleep aids, but they’re actually different from traditional heavy comforters. Weighted blankets are designed to be distributed evenly across the body and held securely in place with an even weight. This is intended to help relax the person’s body and mind by providing deep pressure therapy. On the other hand, traditional comforters are meant for warmth and comfort rather than for special therapeutic effects.
Comforters are generally lightweight and don’t provide even pressure throughout the body like a weighted blanket does. Additionally, weighted blankets can be heavier and made of unique materials, such as glass beads, that add to their therapeutic effect. All of these factors make weighted blankets different from heavy comforters and should be taken into account when determining which option fits best for you or a loved one!
The Benefits Of Using A Weighted Blanket
Weighted blankets are truly unique, and if you have been thinking about ways that you can improve your sleep and comfort levels, they are certainly worth looking into. From reducing stress to improving comfort, here are some of the great benefits that you can expect when using a weighted blanket:
Reduces Stress And Anxiety
In an increasingly busy world, finding ways to reduce stress and anxiety levels can be a daily challenge. For many people, a weighted blanket might just be the answer. According to studies, the even weight distributed across your body may help you relax by mimicking a soothing hug or swaddle. This phenomenon, known as Deep Pressure Stimulation (DPS), is thought to activate calming hormones like serotonin and oxytocin.
Additionally, DPS may help quell racing minds by inhibiting the “fight or flight” response – reducing levels of cortisol which plays a major role in causing chronic stress and anxiety. If you struggle with sleep disturbances due to stress and anxiety, a weighted blanket may improve your quality of sleep as it helps keep your body comfortable throughout the night without leaving you feeling overheated.
Promotes Melatonin Production
Weighted blankets are also an innovative way to help improve melatonin production. Melatonin is the hormone responsible for regulating sleep, and a lack of it can lead to difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep. Weighted blankets provide physical pressure that stimulates the release of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that ultimately aids in the production of melatonin. The magical thing is that you don’t have to be weighted down for hours – just 15-20 minutes is all that’s needed to increase your serotonin levels and encourage your body to start producing melatonin naturally.
Not only does this provide a more comfortable sleep experience, but it also lets you wake up feeling more refreshed than ever before. So if you’re looking for a way to boost melatonin production without major lifestyle changes, investing in a weighted blanket could be the key to getting a better night’s rest!
Reduces Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Symptoms
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) can cause a person to experience excessive and debilitating anxiety. Fortunately, a weighted blanket may offer some relief for people living with the disorder. The pressure of the weight provides deep touch stimulation, which calms agitated central nervous systems that have been compromised by OCD. A person’s body is comforted by the same effects as being gently hugged, helping them feel safe and relaxed, and reducing feelings of distress.
Weighted blankets also help improve sleep quality, which can help combat a common symptom of OCD: insomnia. With reduced anxiety and improved relaxation, people with OCD may find they are enabled to take more control over their compulsive behaviors while better managing their lives overall.
Increases Focus
A weighted blanket could be just what you need if you’re struggling to remain focused and productive. As you have been reading, weighted blankets provide a comforting level of deep touch pressure, similar to a gentle massage or hug. This tactile sensation activates the body’s nervous system and helps encourage feelings of calmness, improved mood, and deeper sleep.
In turn, this can help improve focus and productivity levels when used during the day as people can better concentrate on their work tasks. It’s an easy way to create a more tranquil environment without having to leave your desk – perfect for when deadlines are looming!
Reduce Symptoms of Osteoarthritis
Weighted blankets have been used for decades to help reduce symptoms of stress, insomnia, and pain. For those with osteoarthritis, weighted blankets can be an ideal choice for reducing general aches, pains, and joint discomfort. The gentle pressure created by the weight of a weighted blanket is said to provide feelings of safety and comfort, which can be extremely helpful in managing arthritis-related discomfort.
This pressure has been linked to increased serotonin production in the brain, which brings about relaxation and reduces physical pain. Weighted blankets may also be effective in curbing inflammatory responses associated with the signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis. Ultimately, it’s important to note that while weighted blankets are not a cure for arthritis, they certainly bring feelings of security that may bring some level of comforting relief from other treatments.
Help Manage PTSD Symptoms
For those suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), the physical and emotional symptoms can be paralyzing. Thankfully, recent studies in the mental healthcare world have presented a powerful tool to help manage those symptoms—weighted blankets. Weighted blankets are designed to give users a feeling of soothing, comforting pressure when used, which helps reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
In addition to providing mental benefits for people with PTSD, weighted blankets also provide a sense of security and familiarity that can’t be replicated with any other object. Learning how to use weighted blankets can open up an avenue of relief that can bring peace of mind and balance to those struggling with PTSD.
Help Ease Restless Leg Syndrome
Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) is a disorder caused by an issue in the central nervous system which results in an overwhelming urge to move the legs. It can be difficult for those with RLS to sleep as its symptoms are strongest in a state of rest. A great way for individuals experiencing RLS to alleviate their symptoms is by using a weighted blanket.
By providing moisturized pressure, weighted blankets work to reduce stress and anxiety, which can help with managing RLS so that individuals can get better sleep each night. In addition, weighted blankets may improve levels of serotonin and melatonin, two hormones that control your sleeping and wake cycles, while securely providing comfort throughout the night.
The Benefits Of Using A Weighted Blanket Are Marvelous!
While rather simple in design, weighted blankets have many benefits that offer physical and mental relief for a wide range of health issues and everyday conditions. Whether you are suffering from insomnia, PTSD, RLS, or other conditions, weighted blankets can be an effective tool in helping to better manage symptoms and improve your quality of life. They provide just the right amount of comfort without being too restrictive while also providing a sense of security and relaxation. Ultimately, weighted blankets can be a great addition to any sleep or mental health routine for those who need a little extra help!