Will a Weighted Blanket Help Me Sleep Better?
October 6, 2023 9:00 amSleep is essential for our physical and mental well-being. After a long day, nothing compares to snuggling up in bed, especially with a soft and comfortable blanket. Recently, weighted blankets have gained popularity for their purported ability to improve sleep quality. But do they live up to the hype? In this blog, we’ll explore whether a weighted blanket can help you sleep better.
What Is a Weighted Blanket?
Like the name suggests, a weighted blanket is weighted due to filling. They contain materials like glass beads or plastic pellets evenly distributed throughout the blanket, providing a gentle, consistent weight. They are are designed to provide deep touch pressure (DTP) stimulation. The pressure from the blanket is believed to mimic the sensation of being hugged or swaddled, which can induce feelings of relaxation and security.
Benefits of Using a Weighted Blanket
One of the benefits of weighted blankets is their ability to calm the nervous system. The deep pressure they provide may stimulate the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that contributes to feelings of well-being and relaxation. Additionally, it may reduce the production of cortisol, a stress hormone. This calming effect can be especially helpful for individuals dealing with anxiety or stress, which often disrupt sleep.
Other benefits may include improved sleep and mood and reduced symptoms of sleep disorders like restless leg syndrome.
How to Choose a Weighted Blanket
If you want to give using a weighted blanket a try, be sure to select a blanket that is around 10% of your body weight. This can help the weighted blanket work effectively and safely. However, preferences may apply, so speaking with a health professional about your blanket choice may be helpful.
Learn More Ways to Get Quality Sleep
Weighted blankets aren’t the only solution for sleeping better. At RespAir Sleep, Dr. DeSaix and our team can help you explore other options to get good quality sleep. Browse our services or blog to learn more about getting better sleep tonight!
Image by Niels Zee from PixabayCategorised in: Tips
