{"id":6692,"date":"2021-03-19T09:25:33","date_gmt":"2021-03-19T09:25:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.housejunkie.co.uk\/?p=6692"},"modified":"2021-03-19T10:12:22","modified_gmt":"2021-03-19T10:12:22","slug":"what-is-the-purpose-of-a-weighted-blanket","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.housejunkie.co.uk\/what-is-the-purpose-of-a-weighted-blanket\/","title":{"rendered":"Looking Underneath the Covers: What Is the Purpose of a Weighted Blanket?"},"content":{"rendered":"

A weighted blanket, also known as a gravity blanket, can be used for a variety of purposes. In many cases, weighted blankets have been known to significantly improve a person’s sleep quality while also providing a calming effect that relieves anxiety and stress. With all of this in mind, it is no wonder weighted blankets are rapidly growing in popularity and becoming a necessity in an average home.<\/p>\n

This article aims to answer the question – what is the purpose of a weighted blanket, as well as discusses the benefits, and for whom it is recommended. By the time you are through, you should have all the information you need to determine if purchasing a weighted blanket is the right decision for you.<\/p>\n

What Is a Weighted Blanket<\/h2>\n

A weighted blanket is a heavier cover with either plastic pellets or glass beads<\/strong> sewn inside. The addition of the beads within gives it added weight in precise amounts. Generally speaking, weighted blankets range between 3 and 12kg. The appropriate blanket weight for your frame is basically between 5% and 10%<\/strong> of your body weight.<\/p>\n

How Do Weighted Blankets Work?<\/h2>\n

\"aWeighted blankets<\/a> promote a sensation referred to as deep touch pressure stimulation<\/strong>. Deep pressure stimulation helps to relax you in the same manner as a massage or a hug<\/strong>. The gentle weight of the blanket on your body establishes a calming effect that stimulates your Parasympathetic Nervous System (PSNS). This increases the production of certain hormones and limiting selective brain chemicals which can have a reverberating effect on the quality and length of your sleep as well as your overall mood.<\/p>\n

Pressure therapy was first discovered as a soothing method for children who are autistic and is still used by occupational therapists today as a tool for blanket therapy. Studies found that gentle pressure on the body helped to release oxytocin<\/a>. The discovery eventually led to the development of weighted blankets for a variety of purposes. Aside from blanket therapy, they can also be used by people with other conditions or those who want to sleep better.<\/p>\n

10 Weighted Blanket Benefits<\/h2>\n

By now you are probably wondering, why would you use a weighted blanket? As it turns out, there are plenty of reasons you may want to, including a boost to your nervous system. The benefits of weighted blankets are numerous and are not limited to the top 10 listed here.<\/p>\n

1. Improves Sleep Quality<\/h4>\n

For many people, the primary benefit associated with the use of weighted blankets is that they improve sleep quality. The deep pressure stimulation provided by a weighted blanket may help produce a feeling of security and content that lulls you to sleep. This can be compared to the way a baby benefits from being swaddled. The deep touch pressure may also aid to decrease restlessness and reduce movement, enabling you to sleep soundly and feel invigorated in the morning.<\/p>\n

2. Combats Sleep Disorders<\/h4>\n

The deep touch pressure provided by a weighted blanket can also help with more serious sleep disorders like insomnia. Deep pressure boosts your nervous system which can be particularly beneficial for people experiencing sleepless nights. Research has shown that using a gravity blanket can help insomniacs not only to fall asleep faster but also to stay asleep for longer.<\/p>\n

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A post shared by Val~Marketing & Community, JL (@val_welwyn_events)<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n