The Science Behind Weighted Blankets

Weighted blankets are designed to alleviate symptoms linked to autism, sensory processing disorders, and anxiety. Doctors recommend people suffering from such ailments to buy a weighted blanket to ease the effects of such diseases. Designed to match the perks of deep touch pressure therapy, weighted blankets have shown to mitigate anxiety and boost oxytocin in the brain and help sensory processing disorders victims feel relaxed.

In this article, we’re going to discuss the science behind weighted blankets and their significance.  If you’re eager to find out the benefits of a weighted blanket and how it works, continue reading the article.

What do we mean by a weighted blanket?

A weighted blanket is no different from a regular blanket in terms of shape and look. Even though some weighted blankets resemble therapy blankets or medical equipment, a significant percentage resembles a regular blanket. Most people prefer weighted blankets that assume the shape and look of regular blankets. The great thing about weighted blankets is that they can be customized to meet individual specifications. Besides, weighted blankets are available in different colors, prints, and patterns, meaning individuals a wide selection to choose from.

Weighted blankets differ from regular blankets in that they are filled with hypoallergenic, non-hazardous polypropylene pellets. These blankets are made of self-contained tiny pockets that are uniformly distributed through the entire blanket. These pellets make the blanket heavy to match the 10 percent of the user’s body weight. The weight of this blanket depends on the individual’s needs as well as preferences.

Secondly, weighted blankets differ from those of regular blankets in that they are designed to fit the user’s body rather than their bed. This is to prevent the weighted blanket from pulling towards the floor.

Benefits of a Weighted Blanket

Alleviates Insomnia

People suffering from insomnia encounter difficulties in their attempt to fall asleep. This disorder is more common among Americans, with at least 40 million people suffering from this condition. Doctors recommend people suffering from this condition to use weighted blankets because it stimulates the secretion of serotonin, a chemical that controls sleep. Weighted blankets provide deep touch pressure stimulation whenever you need it.

Mitigates Anxiety

Anxiety is quite typical for people nowadays. There are several ways to combat anxiety, including identifying the cause, keeping off events that trigger anxiety, or using a weighted blanket.

Ease Stress

Stress is common to everyone, and if not controlled, it can have adverse effects on your health. Stress is attributed to endless factors such as an argument with your boss, spouse or colleague workers, a bad day in office, and more. It’s essential to find ways to fight back stress since its effects can harm your physical and mental health.

The good thing is weighted blankets help you to ease stress. Studies have revealed that deep touch pressure stimulation therapy is efficient. With a weighted blanket, you get to fight back stress without necessarily booking an appointment with a therapist or purchasing expensive medical equipment.