Weighted blankets (sometimes referred to as ‘heavy blankets’) are somewhat like ordinary blankets except for the fillings inside them. Whereas ordinary blankets are filled with wool or cotton, weighted blankets are filled with heavy pellets made of plastic, pebbles, or even sand. The weight produced by these pellets is used to apply heavy pressure on our body which is known as Deep Pressure Therapy (DTP). And it has now been scientifically proven that such pressure has numerous benefits on the human body.
The benefits that you can derive from using a heavy blanket for sleep are plenty. To help you understand more about these benefits, here are 5 reasons discussing why you should consider using a heavy blanket. The result of using such weighted blankets is a peaceful sleep, perhaps one that you have not had in a long time. Instead of weighted blankets you can even use faux fur throw blanket
#1 They are calming and comfortable
Comfort always gets the priority when it comes to sleep. You cannot have a good rest if you are not comfortable. And when you are talking about a comfortable blanket, the weighted ones take the top spot.
The pellets inside a heavy blanket will apply firm pressure on you. When you wrap yourself with the blanket, the entire pressure of the blanket and the pellets inside it will fall on you, giving you the feeling of a tight hug. This makes for a very comfy feeling and helps you get cozy in your bed.
Besides, the Deep Pressure Therapy from these blankets leaves a calming sensation on our body which makes us feel even more comfortable.
#2 Can help reduce stress and anxiety
Stress and anxiety can lead to restlessness, which in turn can deteriorate the quality of your sleep. Sleeping disorders like insomnia are common in people suffering from such cases of anxiety. For a good night’s sleep, you need to let go of your stress. Doing so is easier said than done, but if you are using a heavy blanket, you can reduce the stress to a great extent.
The same deep pressure that makes you feel comfortable can also help release hormones like dopamine and serotonin that can tackle your stress and anxiety, and make you feel relieved. This prompts a relaxing sensation that will enable you to sleep stress-free.
#3 Helps improve sleep quality
The comfy feeling you get while wearing a weighted blanket will put you in a state of euphoria. You are being embraced by warmth, the pressure from the pellets is helping to release dopamine and serotonin, and your stress levels start to drop significantly; all these factors help improve your sleep quality by a great deal. And the best part about all this is that you do not have to put any effort from your end to make all this happen. The heavy blanket takes care of it for you.
The result of using such weighted blankets is a peaceful sleep, perhaps one that you have not had in a long time.
#4 Can help you fall asleep quicker
There are many of us who, despite being tired, are unable to sleep or fall asleep quickly. Others cannot sleep due to insomnia. Weighted blankets can tackle all these issues and more.
One of the many benefits of heavy blankets is that they can help you fall asleep a lot faster. The blanket’s deep pressure stimulation can induce sleep within a short period. The added weight on top of your body helps calm you down, enabling you to sleep quicker. The release of stress-relieving hormones also helps in this regard.
#5 Keeps you focused
Academics and work-life are very challenging. You cannot but stay focused if you are to succeed in your field. But given the pressure you have to deal with on a daily basis, it is easy for you to lose focus and fall behind.
Researchers suggest that using weighted pads can help you stay focused. A gentle yet firm pressure applied by a heavy blanket will allow you to give full attention to whatever it is that you are doing. The blanket also helps with symptoms of ADHD among children. If you have tried different things for staying focused and attentive to your work, but failed, again and again, it is time you give weighted blankets a try, and see the results for yourself.
So if you are someone who has been having trouble with your sleep lately, it is high time to give heavy blankets a try. With the benefits these blankets have to offer, you will not be disappointed.
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