Crafted in numerous materials, the inside of a weighted blanket is what gives them their heavy, cocoon like sensation. Micro glass beads, natural grains, microfiber beads, sand, pebbles, plastic poly pellets, and steel shot beads are among the common inner weights. If you’re on the fence as to whether or not a weighted blanket might help you or your loved one sleep or reduce stress, pay attention to these five possible physical and mental health benefits:
1. Eases stress and reduces anxiety
Many folks who sleep with weighted blankets claim to experience a calming and soothing effect. Similar to how a baby might better sleep in a tight bundle (swaddling), a weighted-blanket is also reported to help sleepers sleep harder and longer. And when it comes to alleviating stress and removing anxiety, a good night’s sleep is very important.
2. Helps reduce attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (or ADHD)
ADHD, when not properly treated, often creates behavioral, learning, and productivity issues. A weighted blanket is reputed to help reduce ADHD symptoms, including both kinaesthesia and proprioception, which is why many healthcare professionals recommend them to ADHD patients of all ages.
3. Calms restless leg syndrome (RLS)
Cortisol levels and serotonin can impact the severity of RLS. However, sleeping with a weighted blanket is known to calm restless leg syndrome. During the day, the condition doesn’t cause as many complications and movement typically helps alleviate symptoms. At night, however, especially when lying in bed, patients with RLS often experience painful side effects such as burning sensations, crawling sensations, cramping and aches and itching. A weighted blanket is said to help alleviate these common RLS symptoms.
4. Calms the nervous system and insomnia
In so many ways, insomnia can negatively impact a range of physical and mental conditions. Everything from work, school, physical and mental wellbeing, and relationships can be impacted. Those who suffer from insomnia might have a hard time falling asleep, and staying asleep. And due to poor sleep, a myriad of issues may occur putting the patient and those around them in danger. However, a weighted blanket can help calm the nervous system and allow insomniacs to attain deep, quality sleep. Stress is a leading cause of insomnia, and these blankets typically help eliminate any feelings of stress.
5. Reduces sensory stimuli for autism patients
Autism can impact normal modes of learning and speaking. Where a patient lands on the autism spectrum can vary and so can the symptoms. However, for most autistic patients, both external and internal factors can cause adverse reactions to sensory stimuli. The force from a weighted blanket often reduces this exterior sensory stimuli, helping autistic patients focus on their surroundings and stay calm and comforted.
