Mental Health

Weighted Blankets: Effects and How to Use Them

By Dynne C. | Update Date: May 07, 2024 08:05 PM EDT

Typically weighing up to 25 lbs, weighted blankets are built differently from regular blankets, which is why it affects a user differently.

Weighted Blankets

Weighted blankets provide more than just warmth; they offer a comforting embrace that can ease stress and promote better sleep. Understanding what they are, what they do, and how to use them is crucial for maximizing their benefits.

Effects of Using Weighted Blankets

The magic behind weighted blankets lies in their ability to mimic the sensation of a hug through deep pressure stimulation. This gentle pressure stimulates the body, slowing down heart rate and breathing, fostering a state of relaxation conducive to restful sleep.

Beyond sleep improvement, weighted blankets have been found to alleviate conditions such as anxiety, insomnia, autism, ADHD, chronic pain, sensory overload, and restless leg syndrome (RLS). People use them not only to sleep deeper but also to feel less anxious and more collected, similar to the comforting embrace of a loved one.

How to Use Them

Selecting the right weight is essential for optimal use. Research suggests that the ideal weight for a weighted blanket is around 10% of one's body weight. However, personal preferences vary, so experimenting with different weights is advisable. For children under four, caution is recommended, as they may struggle to remove the blanket if it feels too heavy.

Once the appropriate weight is chosen, there are several ways to incorporate a weighted blanket into one's routine:

De-stress

People can wrap themselves in a weighted blanket whenever they need to unwind, helping them feel calm and ready to tackle the next part of their day.

Enhance Naps

Using a weighted blanket during short naps can promote relaxation and rejuvenation.

Improve Sleep

Bringing the blanket to bed allows people to experience deeper, more restorative sleep. Layering it over the body like a regular blanket provides soothing pressure throughout the night.

Enhance Focus

Keeping the blanket draped over the lap or shoulders while working can improve concentration and productivity.

Calm Sensory Overload

Seeking comfort under the weight of a knitted blanket can help people feel less overwhelmed by sensory stimuli.

Adjusting to a weighted blanket may take time. Starting by gradually introducing it into one's routine, covering only the legs for short periods before incorporating it into the nightly sleep ritual, can help people acclimate. With patience and persistence, the benefits of a weighted blanket can transform both sleep quality and overall well-being.

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