Recently, a lot of people have been talking about the use of weighted blankets to help combat anxiety, sleep troubles, issues related to sensory processing, and individuals with autism.
How does it work?
These blankets are meant to be 10% of your body weight, and are designed to relax your body’s nervous system by stimulating the feeling of being held. Engineers behind the blankets, design them to use “deep touch pressure simulation” to provide pressure and sensory input to the body, which then tells the brain to release serotonin and melanin.
How cool is that?!?
These blankets can be used for more than just sleeping, they can bring you comfort in virtually any setting. You can use them while you are reading in bed, relaxing on the couch, or even in the car. Depending on the job you have, you can probably even use them at work too. Heck, I think I am gonna try sneaking mine into class with me one day!
Okay, I probably won’t do that, but I could totally relate to someone if they did.
As an anxiety sufferer and someone who struggles to sleep for more than an hour or two at a time, I decided to give it a try. When I told people that I purchased this blanket, they judged me for how much money I was putting out for a “blanket”. However, I have only had it for about a week and it has made a world of difference.
People have expressed concerns that the weight will only add to their anxiety or make them feel like they are suffocating, but I have not found this to be true at all. I have gotten some of the best sleep I have ever had. I wake up feeling well rested and comforted, almost like someone is cuddling you.
Most mornings I couldn't get out of bed because I was so tired and miserable, but now I don't want to leave my bed because of how comfortable it is. I guess both of those are problems when you are a college student with 9ams, but one of those is a much better problem to have.
Some people have also expressed concern that the blanket will make them feel overheated, or too hot while they are sleeping. I haven't found this to be true either. Granted, I am always freezing, but for those individuals who share that concern, the material of the blanket is breathable so you don't wake up in a pool of your own sweat.
On the other hand, when it comes to my anxiety and panic attacks, I have found that the blanket does give that “hug” sensation that the manufacturers talk about. Sometimes it is too much of a hug for me when I am in this state, but some people do respond well to this type of contact. Personally, I have found it more helpful if I lay it on my legs or just across my lap, rather than covering my entire body.
This blanket is a new tool I will be using, and it has definitely benefited my overall well-being. I would recommend getting one to just about anyone, especially individuals who struggle to find restful sleep.
In terms of cost, it can be a little on the expensive side, but totally worth it in the short and long term benefits that it will have on your health. It is also a blanket, so it should last you a really long time.
If interested, be sure to do your own research to find the blanket that would work best for you in terms of use and cost. Every individual’s needs are different, and only you can make the best decision in regards to your own health and well-being.
P.S. Those people that judged me for spending so much money on this blanket, have now ordered their own blankets too.
