Understanding how weighted blankets enhance sleep

Let's face it: getting a good night's sleep can feel like a struggle sometimes. Maybe you've tried everything, from turning down the lights to limiting screen time, but nothing seems to do the trick. Here's where a weighted blanket comes in. If you've heard the buzz about them but are curious if they're worth the hype, don't worry; you're not alone. In this article, we'll break down everything you need to know about weighted blankets, and you might just want to give one a try.

What's a weighted blanket, anyway?

Okay, let's start with the basics. A weighted blanket is exactly what it sounds like—a heavy blanket filled with materials (sleep-safe quartz glass beads) to make it heavier than your typical blanket. These blankets weigh anywhere from 5 to 30 pounds and are designed to act like a warm hug that envelops you as you rest. They work by applying gentle pressure to your body, and that's where the magic happens. This pressure is not only comforting but also has safety and therapeutic effects, helping to reduce anxiety and address various sleep problems. It's this soothing, uniform pressure that mimics the feeling of being held, promoting a deeper and more restful sleep.

How do weighted blankets work?

What makes weighted blankets special is their deep pressure stimulation (DPS). It's like getting a gentle, soothing hug, which helps your body relax and calm down. The results?

• Boosted serotonin: The gentle pressure triggers your body to release serotonin, a "feel-good" hormone. This isn't just about feeling happy—it also turns into melatonin, the hormone that helps you fall asleep.

• Lower cortisol: Weighted blankets help lower cortisol, which is the stress hormone that can keep you wide awake even when you're tired.

• Calmed nervous system: The pressure from the blanket helps your body switch into "chill mode," turning off the constant alertness and allowing your mind to unwind.

Why should I use a weighted blanket?

Here are some weighted blanket benefits which explain why so many people swear by them:

1. Helps you sleep deeper and more soundly

One of the best things about weighted blankets is that they help you enter the deeper stages of sleep. That means you're not just drifting off and waking up every few hours. Instead, you're getting the restful, restorative sleep your body needs to feel truly rested. Pair it with a high-quality sleep mask for the best results.

2. Calms your anxious mind

If you can't seem to stop thinking at night—whether it's about work, life, or everything in between—the gentle pressure of a weighted blanket can work wonders. It helps calm the anxious thoughts that keep you awake, allowing you to relax and fall asleep faster without resorting to sleep medicine.

3. Helps with ADHD and autism

Weighted blankets are especially helpful for people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism. Their deep touch pressure has a grounding effect that helps calm the nervous system and reduce restlessness. For kids and adults alike, they offer a sense of security and comfort that improves sleep quality.

4. Eases sleep disorders

If you have a chronic sleep disorder like insomnia, sleep apnea, or restless leg syndrome, a weighted blanket might help you drift off faster and stay asleep longer. Although it can't treat sleep disorders completely, its gentle pressure can ease muscle tension, promote relaxation, and reduce the constant tossing and turning.

5. Reduces stress and sensory overload

Weighted blankets can be incredibly helpful for those who experience sensory overload, whether due to anxiety symptoms or conditions like autism spectrum disorder. The deep touch pressure from the blanket provides a calming effect on the nervous system, reducing feelings of overwhelm.

6. Relieves chronic pain

For anyone with chronic pain conditions like arthritis or fibromyalgia, a weighted blanket might just be a game changer. The blanket's gentle pressure can ease some of the muscle tension and discomfort, which might help you sleep a little easier at night.

Tips for using a weighted blanket

Ready to try one out? Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Pick the right weight: A good rule of thumb is to go for a blanket that's around 10% of your body weight. That way, you're getting just the right amount of pressure without feeling overwhelmed.

• Use it for relaxation: You don't have to reserve your weighted blanket for bedtime only. You can also use it during a nap, while reading, or when you're just chilling on the couch to help you relax.

• Don't overdo it: It's important that you feel comfy, so if the blanket feels too heavy or uncomfortable, try a lighter one. The goal is to feel calm, not weighed down.

So, should you try a weighted blanket?

If you're looking for better sleep, a weighted blanket might just be the key. Whether you're dealing with stress, insomnia, ADHD, autism, or just want something to make you feel cosy and secure, these blankets have a way of calming both the body and mind. So why not give one a go?

Drowsy weighted blankets are crafted from luxurious 22 momme mulberry silk and filled with precision quartz glass beads. Wrap yourself in 8.5kg of weighted heaven and enjoy the deep pressure that your body craves. Choose your favourite colour among the elegant Midnight Blue Silk Weighted Blanket, the calming Dusty Gold Silk Weighted Blanket, and the eerie Moonlight Shadow Silk Weighted Blanket, and immerse yourself in deep sleep.