Isn’t it frustrating when after a long day’s work or a tiring activity, an emotionally-draining situation, or a traumatic event, you can’t find peace when you crawl into bed?
Yep, we’ve all been there. Luckily there is a solution, and it’s bound to surprise you. Weighted blankets!
That’s right! Weighted blankets can help relieve anxiety and cure insomnia plus a lot of added benefits you can find out in this ultimate weighted blanket guide.
According to a controlled study conducted by Swedish researchers, weighted blankets are a safe, convenient, and foolproof way to treat insomnia, improve sleep quality, reduce daytime sleepiness, and alleviate anxiety.
Are you longing to get a good night’s rest without the hassle of any interruptions? Here’s a word on the pros and cons of weighted blankets and how these blankets can help you destress and sleep better.
What Is A Weighted Blanket?
If you have a thick comforter or blanket at home, you’re probably wondering how it’s different from a weighted blanket, so here’s everything you need to know.
Essentially, weighted blankets are heavier than your regular blankets—they can weigh anywhere between 5 and 30 pounds. Depending on the kind of weighted blanket (duvet or knit-style), the extra weight can either be from the yarn or be material (beads or heavy fill) sewed into a grid-like pattern of little pockets. When you use a weighted blanket, this deep pressure stimulation helps you relax, stay calm, and feel grounded in its embrace.
If you’ve had a terrible day and all you need is a tight and warm hug, use a weighted blanket to snuggle up in since these blankets actually mimic the effects of a hug.
What Are Weighted Blankets Made Of?
Weighted blankets are crafted from many materials such as cotton, cotton/polyester hybrid, or wool.
Cotton
Cotton weighted blankets are incredibly breathable. Not only are they soft, but they are the best choice of material for those prone to allergies and skin sensitivity issues. Also, weighted cotton blankets flaunt the ability to stay temperature regulated. Perfect for summer use, cotton blankets will help you stay snug and cool even on a warm night.
Wool
Weighted blankets made of wool are the best way to go for extra insulation in the winter months. If you’re allergic to wool or if wool doesn’t sit well with your skin, choose a weighted blanket made of fleece to better cope with sleep issues and stress.
Polyester
If you’re looking for a long-lasting solution to insomnia and anxiety, opt for polyester-weighted blankets. While weight blankets of this variety aren’t as breathable and well-ventilated as cotton and wool, polyester weighted blankets are made to last. They won’t lose their quality or effectiveness no matter how often you wash them.
How Do Weighted Blankets Help Relieve Anxiety And Insomnia?
Over 21% of adults in America suffer from anxiety disorders each year. Whether it’s a big presentation you’re nervous about or you’ve just lost a loved one, there may be several reasons why you find it hard to stay calm and get good rest. Here’s how weighted blankets can help you feel positive, relaxed, and normal.
A Much-Needed Hug
Weighted blankets can help you get through the toughest days and nights by lending a sense of comfort and security to your being. Simulating the action of a hug, weighted blankets have an earthy and calming effect on those who are extremely stressed and aren’t able to control a racing mind before bed.
A Happy Feeling
When we feel stressed, the body releases a stress hormone called cortisol. When cortisol levels increase, our body goes into a fight or flight state, and it’s extremely difficult to get out of that state and return to normalcy without external intervention. If you’ve tried therapy and medication but are looking for something more convenient and closer to home, try weighted blankets.
Known to trigger mood-enhancing hormones in the brain such as serotonin and dopamine, the engulfing and captivating effects of weighted blankets help you feel comforted, looked after, and tension-free.
Soothing And Relaxing
Another symptom of insomnia and anxiety is an increased heart rate. The inability to sleep well stems from haphazard circadian rhythms, a pounding heart, nightmares, and frightening episodes of anxiety. Using deep pressure, weighted blankets help you sink into your bed and push you inwards. This helps stabilize a racing heartbeat, frantic breathing, and negative thoughts before bed.
Who Shouldn’t Use Weighted Blankets
While weighted blankets are incredibly useful and beneficial to those with anxiety and sleep disorders, you may want to consult a doctor before you use a weighted blanket. Given its bulkiness and insulating properties, weight blankets aren’t for everyone. Here are some instances wherein you’re better off with a regular blanket instead of a weighted one.
Sleep Apnea
If you snore or have obstructive sleep apnea, a weight blanket is not the best option for you. Since these blankets are heavy, bulky, and made with pockets of weight that are sewed into the blanket with excess materials and layers of fabric, weighted blankets might worsen your condition.
Asthma
If you have asthma, using a weighted blanket might have an adverse effect on your ability to breathe properly at night. Why? Because asthma can worsen while you sleep. Adding a weighted blanket to the equation is a recipe for disaster.
Claustrophobia
Weighted blankets are tight, almost like a tight hug. If you’re generally claustrophobic, the tightness of weighted blankets can trigger your condition.
Menopause
Weighted blankets are highly insulated and trap a lot of heat. Women who have hot flashes during menopause are better off without weighted blankets since these blankets will only make them feel hotter and more uncomfortable.
To Sum It Up
Weighted blankets are effective as far as relieving stress, anxiety, and insomnia is concerned. However, they aren’t a one-size-fits-all kind of accessory—you might need to check up on sizes and materials that are best suited to your physical, mental, and emotional needs before getting yourself one.
Weighted blankets also have numerous advantages for pregnant women and for people suffering from restless legs syndrome.
Since these blankets are available in a range of vibrant colors, attractive designs, and alluring fabric choices, we’re pretty certain you’ll find one that makes you feel loved!
At Alaska Sleep Clinic, our staff has the training, skill and expertise necessary to diagnose and treat your sleep disorder. With training and seasoned know-how, our staff can handle the subtle science of diagnosis and treatment of these complex and sometimes elusive problems. Our compassion and dedication facilitate the continuity and quality of care that you deserve and the restful, restorative sleep you need.
