People who use weighted blankets sleep better since they are heavier than regular blankets. They typically weigh between 4 and 30 pounds, making them heavier than the normal comforter or down quilt.
Weighted blankets may be an effective alternative to medication for many persons suffering from problems including anxiety, sleeplessness, or autism.
You are reading: Weighted Blankets For Anxiety And Insomnia. Things You Should Know About
Weighted blankets have been found to be effective in the treatment of a variety of medical ailments.
What are the benefits of a weighted blanket for anxiety?
Children and adults can benefit from weighted blankets, which are normally safe to use. Many people find that they are able to fall asleep more easily with the use of these products.
Using a weighted blanket lowers your center of gravity as you sleep. Earing or grounding is a technique that some people find incredibly relaxing. DPT therapy, in which hard, hands-on pressure is used to relieve chronic stress and high levels of anxiety, is modeled on the blankets.
Studies have shown that the stress hormone cortisol can be reduced by grounding oneself at night. When your brain thinks you’re under threat, cortisol is released, resulting in a fight, flight, or freeze reaction.
Cortisol levels might rise as a result of stress. The immune system may suffer as a result. Additionally, it can raise blood sugar levels and harm the digestive system.
If your cortisol levels don’t naturally return to normal, they can create a variety of health issues. These are some examples:
- depression
- anxiety
- insomnia
- the accumulation of fat
Weighted blankets can assist disrupt this pattern by giving deep pressure contact. Dopamine and serotonin, two of the brain’s feel-good hormones, may be released as a result of this. These hormones can help alleviate the symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression.
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The American Journal of Occupational Therapy found that weighted blankets may help alleviate anxiety. To find out if they can also aid insomnia, more research is required.
The subjects’ sleep cortisol production was reduced as a result of the grounding. As a result, they were able to sleep better and experience less anxiety, sleeplessness, and pain.
Weighted blankets weighing 30 pounds were proven to be a safe and effective method of reducing anxiety in adults in another study. Sixty-three percent of those who took part in the study reported a decrease in their level of anxiety.
How heavy should a weighted blanket be?
If you’re not sure which weighted blanket is right for you, talk to your doctor or an occupational therapist.
You should use your own weight to determine the blanket’s weight. An ideal blanket should be 10% of your body weight, but you may want to go up or down a few pounds if that’s more comfortable for you.
A natural fiber blanket, such as one made of breathable 100 percent cotton, is also an excellent suggestion. In general, polyester and other synthetic materials tend to be hotter than natural fibers.
Due to the heat and weight they contribute, weighted blankets aren’t suitable for many people. If you have any of the following conditions, you should talk to your doctor before wearing a weighted blanket:
- have a long-term health issue
- You’re in the final stages of menopause
- have problems with blood flow
- have difficulty breathing
- experiencing troubles with temperature control
Where to buy weighted blankets
Weighted blankets are available for purchase online. Among the possibilities are:
- Amazon
- Weighted blankets with a mosaic pattern
- It’s Bed Bath & Beyond.
Prescriptions from your doctor may be required for weighted blanket coverage under some insurance plans. To find out if this is an option for you, contact your insurance provider. To the extent permitted by law, weighted blankets may be deducted as medical expenses.
You can even build your own weighted blanket at home if you’re adept with a needle.
Frequently asked questions
What are the benefit of weighted blankets?
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Amy Beth Gardner, a mental health professional in New Hampshire, says her weighted blanket helps her relax after a long day at work. I use it as a tool to move from “work mind” to “home mind” on occasion. “It helps me to maintain a sense of equilibrium.”
Another advantage supported up by research?
- lessened nervousness
- Sleep problems connected with ADHD or sadness and anxiety can be alleviated with improved sleep.
- assistance for autistic people
How heavy should your blanket be?
A typically weighted blanket should be between 5% and 10% of your body weight, according to most manufacturers. The ideal weight for a blanket is between 7.5 and 15 pounds if you weigh 150 pounds.
If you’re an elderly or disabled person, you may want to go for a smaller, lighter blanket. Pregnant women are advised against using them, as well.
How do you sleep with a weighted blanket?
To get the finest benefits, cover your entire body from the shoulders down with a blanket. To get used to the sensation, start out by lying on your back and gradually work your way up to your preferred sleeping position. Relax and take a deep breath!
Can you sleep with a weighted blanket every night?
Sure!
Weighted blankets can take a few nights to get acclimated to for some people. Start with shorter naps and work your way up to utilizing them throughout the night if that describes you.
Can you wash a weighted blanket?
Always follow the manufacturer’s cleaning directions exactly.
Many weighted blankets come with washable covers that can be removed and replaced. The blanket should be washed by hand or dry cleaned by most manufacturers.
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Source: https://bestpillowsleepers.com
Category: Sleep Advisors
