The Science of Sleeping with a Weighted Blanket
If you're someone who struggles to get a good night's sleep, you may have heard about the benefits of using a weighted blanket. Weighted blankets like blanky are known for their ability to promote relaxation, reduce anxiety, and improve sleep quality. But have you ever wondered about the science behind this phenomenon?
In this post, we'll explore the science of sleeping with a weighted blanket and explain how sleeping with a blanky can help you get a better night's rest.
What is a weighted blanket?
A weighted blanket is a type of blanket that is filled with materials such as glass beads, plastic pellets, or natural materials like rice or beans. These materials give the blanket extra weight, which provides deep pressure stimulation (DPS) to the body. The pressure from the blanket is designed to replicate the feeling of being hugged, which can help promote relaxation and reduce stress and anxiety.
How does a weighted blanket work?
Weighted blankets, like blanky, work by using the principles of DPS. When pressure is applied to the body, it triggers the release of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which can help reduce feelings of anxiety and promote relaxation. Additionally, DPS can increase the production of the hormone melatonin, which helps regulate sleep.
The pressure from a weighted blanket also stimulates the production of oxytocin, which is known as the "cuddle hormone." Oxytocin is responsible for feelings of happiness and bonding, and it can help improve mood and reduce stress.
What are the benefits of using a weighted blanket?
Weighted blankets have several benefits for those who struggle with sleep or anxiety:
- Improved sleep quality: The deep pressure stimulation from a weighted blanket can help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.
- Reduced anxiety: The pressure from a weighted blanket can help reduce feelings of anxiety and promote relaxation.
- Increased serotonin and dopamine production: These neurotransmitters are responsible for feelings of happiness and pleasure, and increased production can help improve mood and reduce stress.
- Reduced cortisol levels: Cortisol is a stress hormone that can interfere with sleep. The use of a weighted blanket can help reduce cortisol levels and promote better sleep.
- Improved focus: The use of a weighted blanket can help improve focus and attention, which can be helpful for those with ADHD or other attention disorders.
How do you choose the right weighted blanket?
When choosing a weighted blanket, it's important to consider your body weight. Most experts recommend using a blanket that is about 10% of your body weight. Additionally, you'll want to choose a blanket that is the right size for your bed.
At blanky, we offer a range of several weights and sizes that can better adapt to your needs.
