Weighted blankets have become more prevalent in recent years, and for a good reason. These blankets offer a wide range of benefits, from comfort and security to improved sleep and reduced stress. This article will explore the benefits of using a weighted blanket and why it might be worth investing in one for yourself or a loved one.

Weighted Blanket Benefits

Provide Comfort and Security

The sensation of comfort and security that a weighted blanket provides results from its design mimicking the feeling of being hugged. This is achieved through the distribution of weight evenly throughout the blanket, creating a sensation of pressure that can be incredibly calming and soothing. Which is the main difference from a regular comforter. This gentle pressure, also known as deep touch pressure (DTP) or deep pressure therapy, has been shown to have numerous benefits for physical and mental health conditions.

Numerous studies have confirmed the benefits of DTP for reducing anxiety and stress, improving slumber, and regulating the nervous system. 

A study published in the Journal of Sleep Medicine and Disorders has discovered that participants who used a weighted blanket reported feeling less anxious and more secure, leading to more restful sleep.

Another study published in the Journal of Medical and Biological Engineering found that the pressure from a weighted blanket can help to reduce cortisol levels, leading to a more relaxed state of mind.

Improve Sleep Quality

Good sleep quality is a crucial aspect of overall health and welfare. It is characterized by several key factors that can significantly impact the quality of your sleep. These factors include:

• Falling asleep quickly
• Staying asleep throughout the night
• Waking up feeling rested and refreshed

The benefits of good sleep quality are numerous and can include the following:

• Improved mood and cognitive function
• Reduced stress and anxiety
• Better memory and concentration
• Enhanced physical performance
• Improved cardiovascular and immune health

Weighted blankets have been shown to help achieve good slumber by providing deep touch pressure, stimulating the release of hormones like melatonin, regulating the sleep-wake cycle, and calming the sensorium. This can help reduce stress and anxiety, improving sleep quality and its associated benefits. Additionally, the sensation of being hugged provided by the blanket can create a sense of comfort and security, further promoting relaxation and good slumber.

Calm The Nervous System

Weighted blankets help calm the nervous system by providing DTP, stimulating the release of hormones like serotonin and dopamine. These hormones are known to promote relaxation and manage the sensorium. The sensation of being hugged provided by the blanket can also create a sense of comfort and security, further promoting peace.

The effect of a calmed nervous system during sleep can result in reduced stress and anxiety, improved slumber, and a general sense of well-being. Additionally, a calm sensorium can lead to improved mood and cognitive function and enhanced physical performance.

Other ways to calm the nervous system and promoting sleep include:

• Deep breathing exercises: Slow, deep breathing can help to reduce stress and anxiety and promote relaxation.
• Progressive muscle relaxation: Tensing and relaxing specific muscle groups can help to reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation.
• Mindfulness meditation: Focusing on the present moment and letting go of racing thoughts can help to reduce stress and anxiety.
• Aromatherapy: Certain essential oils, like lavender and chamomile, have a calming effect too.

You can know your sensorium is calmed down by observing physical signs such as reduced muscle tension, slower breathing, and a general sense of relaxation. Additionally, you may feel less stress and anxiety and have improved slumber and overall welfare.

Using a combination of these techniques in conjunction with a weighted blanket can enhance the calming effect on the nervous system and improve the quality of your sleep.

Relieve symptoms of depression

Weighted blankets can help to positively impact depression by reducing symptoms such as anxiety and stress, which are common in depression. Additionally, the gentle pressure provided by the blanket can stimulate the release of hormones like serotonin and dopamine, which are known to improve mood and promote a sense of well-being.

Several studies have investigated the impact of weighted blankets on depression and found that they can lead to improved good night’s sleep, reduced anxiety and stress, and improved mood.

For example, a study conducted in 2020 found that participants who used a weighted blanket reported reduced anxiety symptoms and improved slumber.

Depression can vary from person to person. Still, common symptoms include sadness or hopelessness, decreased energy and motivation, changes in appetite and sleep patterns, difficulty concentrating and decreased interest in activities.

There are other ways to help with depression during the night besides using a weighted blanket, including:

• Light therapy: Exposing yourself to bright light in the morning can help regulate your sleep/wake cycle and improve mood.
• Exercise: Regular physical activity has been shown to improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression.
• Journaling: Writing down your thoughts and feelings can help you process your emotions and reduce stress and anxiety.
• Mindfulness meditation: Practicing mindfulness can help you focus on the present moment and reduce racing thoughts, leading to reduced stress and anxiety.

By combining the use of a weighted blanket with these other techniques, you may be able to reduce symptoms of depression and improve your overall welfare. It’s important to note that if you are experiencing symptoms of depression, it is recommended that you seek professional help from a doctor or mental health professional.

Helps focus

Weighted blankets can increase focus by providing DTP, stimulating the release of hormones like serotonin and dopamine. These hormones are associated with improved mood, reduced stress and anxiety, and increased concentration and focus.

You may know that your focus could be better if you find yourself easily distracted, needing help retaining information, or feeling mentally exhausted despite adequate sleep.

Poor focus can impact your daily life, making it difficult to complete tasks, remember important information, or engage in activities you enjoy.

Having more focus is good for you because it can lead to improved mental clarity, increased productivity, and better performance in both personal and professional settings. Improved focus can also lead to increased confidence and more remarkable achievement, which can positively impact your overall welfare.

While a weighted blanket can help increase focus, it is essential to consider other factors impacting focus and concentration, such as diet, exercise, and stress levels.

Taking a holistic approach to your mental and physical well-being can maximize the benefits of using a weighted blanket and improve your overall focus and productivity.

Who Can Benefit from Using a Weighted Blanket

Anxiety and Depression

Weighted blankets are effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression by releasing the hormone serotonin. Serotonin regulates mood and improves feelings of happiness, calmness, and security.

The therapeutic blankets weight also helps to reduce stress and anxiety by promoting relaxation, reducing heart rate, and decreasing cortisol levels.

Anxiety and depression are complex conditions that a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors can cause.

Symptoms of anxiety can include feelings of worry, nervousness, and panic. At the same time, depression is characterized by sadness, hopelessness, and low energy.

By providing comfort and security, weighted blankets can help to alleviate these symptoms and offer a natural way to manage anxiety and depression.

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Weighted blanket benefits have been found for individuals with ADHD. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by impulsiveness, inattention, and hyperactivity. These symptoms can make it difficult for individuals with ADHD to focus, concentrate, and stay still, especially during sleep cycle.

By mimicking the feeling of being hugged, the pressure of the blanket helps to calm and soothe individuals with ADHD, allowing them to fall asleep and stay asleep more easily. Additionally, the increased levels of serotonin and dopamine produced by the pressure stimulation can help to improve mood and overall welfare.

It is important to note that while weighted blankets may help some individuals with ADHD, they are not a cure and should not be used as a substitute for conventional treatments such as therapy and medication.

Autism Spectrum Disorder

Weighted blankets are beneficial for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), helping to soothe and calm individuals with ASD who often struggle with sensory sensitivities.

The pressure helps to regulate the sensorium and release serotonin and dopamine, which can help to improve mood, reduce anxiety, and promote relaxation.

ASD is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting social interaction, communication, and behavior. Symptoms of autistic spectrum disorder include difficulties with social interaction and communication, repetitive behaviors, and sensory sensitivities.

By providing a sense of comfort and security, weighted blankets can help to alleviate these symptoms and provide a natural way to manage sensory sensitivities and improve slumber.

It is important to note that while weighted blankets can be helpful for some individuals with autism, they may not be suitable for everyone. We recommend consulting with a doctor or therapist before starting any new treatment.

Chronic pain

Chronic pain is a persistent and ongoing pain that can last for months or years. It can affect people of all ages and can have a significant impact on their quality of life.

If you suffer from chronic pain, a weighted blanket may be a complementary tool to help manage pain symptoms. Still, it should not be used as a substitute for conventional treatments such as medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes.

Insomnia and sleep disorders

Weighted blanket benefits have been found for individuals with insomnia and trouble sleeping. Insomnia is a sleep disorder characterized by difficulty falling or staying asleep or waking up frequently at night. This can lead to tiredness, irritability, and decreased productivity during the day.

By mimicking the feeling of being hugged, the pressure of the gravity blankets helps to calm and soothe individuals with insomnia, allowing them to fall asleep and improve sleep more easily. Additionally, the increased levels of serotonin and dopamine produced by the pressure stimulation can help to improve mood and overall welfare.

Restless Leg Syndrome

Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) is characterized by an irresistible urge to move the legs, often accompanied by discomfort or pain. This can cause significant disruptions to sleep, making it difficult to get a good night’s rest.

Weighted blankets weighted blanket improves sleep for those with Restless Leg Syndrome by providing deep touch pressure stimulation, which can reduce the symptoms of RLS. The pressure of the blanket helps to stimulate the production of dopamine, a chemical in the brain associated with feelings of pleasure and relaxation.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a chronic condition characterized by the deterioration of the joints, causing pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility. It is a common condition that affects many people as they age.

The pressure of the blanket helps to increase blood flow to the affected joints, reducing inflammation and improving flexibility. Additionally, the blanket’s calming effect can help reduce stress and anxiety, which can also contribute to reducing pain levels.

Are Weighted Blankets Safe?

Heavy blankets have gained popularity as a tool for improving better sleep and reducing anxiety. Still, like any product, it is essential to consider potential risks. Regarding safety, some individuals may experience difficulties using a weighted blanket, especially those with pre-existing conditions such as sleep apnea, asthma, and claustrophobia.

Are there risks when using a weighted blanket for deep pressure stimulation?

obstructive sleep apnea

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder in which a person’s breathing repeatedly stops and starts. The pressure of a weighted blanket may worsen sleep apnea symptoms, so it’s important to consult with a doctor before using one if you have this condition.

asthma

People with asthma may also experience difficulty breathing under the weight of a blanket, so it’s recommended to be cautious and consult a doctor if you have asthma.

claustrophobia

Lastly, claustrophobia, or fear of enclosed spaces, can make it difficult for individuals to tolerate the sensation of being covered by a weighted blanket. In these cases, it is recommended to start with a lighter blanket or try a weighted blanket under the guidance of a therapist.

How To Choose the Right Weighted Blanket

Choosing the right weighted blanket can be overwhelming, with so many options available. However, it is crucial to make the right choice to get the full benefits of a weighted blanket. Here are some key factors to consider:

• Weight: The weight of a weighted blanket should be approximately 10% of your body weight. This ensures that the covering provides enough pressure to help you feel calm and relaxed but not too much that it is uncomfortable.
• Size: Make sure to choose a weighted blanket with the right size for your bed. A too small blanket may not provide enough coverage, while a too big one may be uncomfortable to improve sleep.
• Material: Look for a gravity blanket made from breathable and soft materials such as cotton or bamboo. This will ensure that you remain comfortable throughout the night and avoid overheating.
• Fill: Weighted blankets are filled with glass beads, plastic pellets, or steel shot. Choose a fill material that is comfortable, durable, and safe.
• Quality: Look for a weighted blanket that is well made with reinforced seams and edges to prevent any fill from leaking out.
• Care instructions: Make sure to choose a heavy blanket that is easy to care for and machine washable.

Ensure you decide on the best weighted blanket for your needs by exploring our reviews of over 20 leading brands and their Weighted Blankets. By carefully researching the quality and performance of each brand’s blanket, you’ll be able to choose the perfect one for you confidently.

Do they actually work?

Suppose you’re still skeptical about the effectiveness of weighted blankets. In that case, we have a comprehensive article dedicated to this topic that can provide you with more information and insights. We delve into the research and studies conducted on using weighted blankets and how they can improve various aspects of your health and welfare. So if you’re interested in learning more about the science behind weighted blankets, check out our article for a more in-depth look.

Phillip Ottiger

Hello, I am a Co-Founder and former editor of Soothsounds, one of the top blogs related to sleep habits and needs. With my experience, I want to help you understand the importance of a good night’s sleep and how to create it for your own benefit.