Weighted blankets have become increasingly common in recent years, and most people swear by their soothing effects. That’s why occupational therapists have been using weighted blankets for way longer than most people think.
Weighted blankets operate by utilizing deep contact stimulation, which occupational therapists refer to as tactile feedback. They’re perfect for kids (and often adults) with sensory processing disabilities (a.k.a. something you feel on your skin).
The average person will also benefit from having a weighted blanket in their bed. Before you go on to look for the throw blankets on sale, read the article.
1. They Have a Soothing Effect On the Body!
One of the primary kinds of sensory information calming and organizing to our sensory nervous system is deep touch pressure. The strength of weighted blankets and deep contact pressure, in general, is a soothing feeling for almost all.
2. These Make You Want to Hug!
The best weighted blankets give you the feeling of being carried without having to physically contact someone. These blankets feel like you’re getting the most comforting embrace without feeling constrained and hot.
Since weighted blankets are packed with tiny beads (often made of glass, rubber, or sand), snuggling up with one will feel like a firm embrace without someone ever touching you.
3. They Can Assist with Fear & Tension
Cuddling up on the sofa with a weighted blanket (while watching Netflix!) will help you relax and de-stress after a hard day at work or whether you’re just feeling nervous in general. Occupational therapists claim that even though you don’t have an anxiety problem, you’ll definitely find that you sleep safer under a weighted cover.
Bonus: You may be questioning whether or not weighted blankets are safe. These are absolutely safe when used according to the instructions. However, they shouldn’t be used by someone who can’t move easily under the weight — the standard rule is to go with 10% of the body weight, meaning a 150-pound person should have a 15-pound weighted blanket.
If you’re looking for relief from a medical problem, visit a doctor first, and consult your child’s pediatrician before buying a weighted blanket.
4. They Will Help You Get a Better Night’s Sleep
Weighted blankets are helpful for those who have difficulty falling (or staying!) asleep at night. It is so comfortable that sometimes I feel sleepy even when it’s not time to sleep.
I use my weighted blanket to sleep well at night. When I sleep with a weighted blanket, I sleep more comfortably and don’t wake up as much.
5. They Make You Feel Better
Sometimes we feel sad as if all of our pleasure has been drained out of our bodies and replaced with something bleak. This may be due to physiological changes, but whatever the cause, we must also find a cure before the condition worsens.
The blanket’s deep touch pressure is one of the weighted blanket’s advantages. This potentially helps increase one’s mood. Your cortisol or stress levels can also decrease due to the gentle pressure you are under, making you feel happier overall.
