Do you long for a good night’s sleep? Are you craving to simply fall asleep like a normal person, and stay asleep all night!? We understand… If you have problems with sleeping, anxiety, stress or obsessive-compulsive disorder, you might be interested in weighted blanket therapy.
Scientific research has shown that the type of deep pressure that a weighted blanket provides can help support reduced anxiety and have a calming effect that helps you sleep! Weighted blankets can have positive benefits that can help support a number of disorders, like anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, and autism. In fact, weighted blankets were developed to help children with autism via a non-medicated, safe and effective method.
A weighted blanket provides deep pressure that releases the brain chemical serotonin, which is critical to a calm and stable mood. When serotonin is released, the body also releases melatonin -- which helps to promote sleep and regulate the sleep cycle. Excellent... The blanket also can help increase the levels of oxytocin, a hormone that helps provide a feeling of relaxation, making you feel at ease. Oxytocin slows the heart and reduces blood pressure, prompting the body to relax. Perfect...
A therapeutic weighted blanket helps ground your body during sleep which may enhance the deeply calming effect. Studies show that grounding may help reduce night-time levels of cortisol, a stress hormone that has a negative effect on blood sugar, digestion, and immunity.
Researchers say the deep pressure from the weighted blanket is calming to the nervous system, helping the anxious person get the restorative sleep they need. Ooooh… sounds wonderful, doesn’t it? Anything that reduces the effects of stress is good with me!
Using Your Weighted Blanket
The therapeutic weighted blanket can be used to replace the comforter you currently have on your bed. However, some people prefer to use both a weighted blanket & an extra blanket or comforter on top or beneath it. But how are you supposed to use a weighted blanket? Let us tell you!
How to Use a Weighted Blanket Correctly
This is entirely down to you and how you feel most comfortable. For best results, lie on your back to ensure even distribution and cover your body from your neck down. Your feet can be covered or uncovered, whichever you prefer. It might be a good idea to just use it on certain parts of your body first, to allow you to adjust to the feeling of it. To reap the long-term benefits, incorporate your weighted blanket into your daily routine.
How to Use a Weighted Blanket for Anxiety
To take advantage of the full relaxing benefits, make sure your entire body is covered from shoulders to feet. There’s no right or wrong time to use your blanket. So when you find you are feeling stressed or anxious, whether that’s day or night, it can help to lie down and swaddle yourself in your blanket.
Our weighted blanket combines clever engineering with super-soft fabrics to help wash away your anxiety and improve quality of sleep.
How Long to Use a Weighted Blanket?
The length of time you use your weighted blanket depends on your personal preference. Some people find it helps them to sleep with it all night, while others prefer to use it for shorter stints. Spend some time experimenting to see what you find most comfortable. If you love the relaxation it promotes and want to keep it on all night, go right ahead! There is no harm in this. If you’re a side sleeper, consider purchasing a lighter blanket as the weight won’t be as evenly distributed.
For maximum results, the amount of time you use your blanket doesn't matter. But consistent use is key. Regular use of your weighted blanket can encourage healthier sleeping patterns and help keep anxiety at bay.
How To Use a Weighted Blanket for ASD, ADHD, or PTSD
Mental health disorders such as autism, ADHD, and PTSD can make it difficult to get a good night’s sleep. As sleep is so crucial for the proper function of our brains and body’s, if you aren’t getting enough of it, your ability to carry out your day-to-day activities will suffer. A lack of sleep can also compound mental health issues.
By applying pressure on your body, a weighted blanket used at night can lower your heart rate and help you relax. Thus creating a better state of mind to help you slowly drift off into dreamland. Research has found that weighted blankets can improve quality of sleep and reduce the need for sleep medication, in people with a psychiatric diagnosis.
But not only do weighted blankets assist with sleeping, they can also help those suffering with mental health problems manage their daily stresses. During times of anxiety or stress, simply drape a weighted blanket over you and let it do its thing. This can help kids with ADHD concentrate better, soothe anxiety during a PTSD attack, and help people with autism relax so they can carry out their normal everyday activities.
We offer a weighted blanket specifically designed for kids! Help your child relax and get a good night’s sleep every day.
When Shouldn't You Use A Weighted Blanket?
Weighted blankets are safe for most adults and children to use. However, it is important to note there are a few groups of people who carry higher risks when using one. If you fall under any of the categories below, consult with your doctor before use.
- Children under the age of three or that weigh less than 25kg - never leave unsupervised.
- Pregnant women
- Elderly people
- People with health concerns, such as sleep apnea and respiratory issues