Benefits of Weighted Blankets

How weighted blankets work

Weighted blankets work similarly to being embraced in a hug. You know how wonderful it is to be held tight? It’s a calming and comforting feeling, just the thing you need when you’re feeling upset or overwhelmed. Well, weighted blankets have the same effect, thanks to deep pressure stimulation therapy (DPST).

Deep pressure stimulation is a kind of therapy that has many benefits, both physical and psychological. By applying gentle pressure to your body, you start to relax and calm down, making it easier to get to sleep and stay asleep when stressed. This type of therapy can be a great addition or even a replacement for other sleep-inducing methods, such as medication.

The science behind deep pressure stimulation

Deep pressure stimulation works by helping the body switch from running its sympathetic nervous system, to running its parasympathetic nervous system. In other words, it helps the brain switch from “Fight or Flight” to “Rest and Digest” mode.

The sympathetic nervous system is the “alert” system in the body. It’s the one that takes charge in stressful situations. However, when the sympathetic nervous system takes charge for too long, you start to feel anxious, tired, on edge and irritable. You may not sleep well and you might find your digestive system plays up too. 

On the other hand, the parasympathetic nervous system brings a sense of calm and peace to the mind and body. When the parasympathetic nervous system takes over, your muscles relax, your heart rate slows and circulation improves, giving you the chance to rest, relax and recharge.

How deep pressure helps with anxiety

As pressure is applied to the body, feel-good chemicals like serotonin are released, creating a parasympathetic response in the body. This puts your body in a more relaxed state and also reduces your cortisol levels, also known as the stress hormone.

Serotonin helps regulate anxiety, happiness and mood and using a weighted blanket can increase serotonin production to assist with relaxation. Serotonin is also the chemical precursor to melatonin, which is the body’s natural sleep-inducing hormone. Together, these chemicals put busy minds at ease, easing anxiety and allowing for a restful night’s sleep.

Who should use a weighted blanket

Weighted blankets can be used by anyone, in a variety of ways. You can cover your whole body to help with sleep, wrap it around your shoulders for extra sensory input or lay it on your lap to help ground you and calm down.

While anyone can benefit from the deep pressure stimulation of a weighted blanket, some people will experience greater benefit, particularly those with the following conditions: 

  • Sleep Disorders – weighted therapy can help increase the levels of serotonin and melatonin in the brain to introduce healthy sleep habits.
  • Insomnia – weighted blankets can help you fall asleep and stay asleep longer, giving you a natural alternative to medication.
  • ADD/ADHD – weighted blankets can provide deep pressure and sensory stimulation to calm the body, relax the mind and bring on sleep.
  • Aspergers and Autism – weighted blankets can deliver much-needed sensory input to help you calm down, relax and fall asleep.
  • Anxiety and Anxious Feelings – weighted blankets can help your body transition from a state of anxiousness and panic, to a state of calmness.

Really, who doesn’t feel better after a good night's sleep? The benefits of sleeping well and being in a calm and relaxed state are endless. Whatever your needs, a good quality weighted blanket goes a long way to helping you get the rest you deserve.

How to choose a weighted blanket

It’s important to choose the right weight to gain the maximum benefit from your weighted blanket. Your blanket should ideally equal 10% of your body weight. However, you can still get positive results with blankets weighted between 5% - 15% of your body weight. 

Weighted blankets also come in a variety of sizes. There are small lap blankets to promote focus and concentration (a great way to support kids when sitting at a desk). Then there are queen-sized blankets that provide deep pressure to couples throughout the night (plus a whole host of other sizes in between!)

It’s important to note that weighted blankets are not recommended for children under 2 years of age. Regardless of age, anyone using a weighted blanket must be able to safely remove it without assistance to ensure safety. 

Check out our full range of Weighted Blankets

The Lotus weighted blanket

Now you understand the benefits of weighted blankets, it’s time to introduce you to our Lotus weighted blanket. Trust us, this weighted blanket is set to become your new go-to blanket! Expertly made and wonderfully soft, our Lotus weighted blanket delivers sensory input, deep pressure and unbelievable comfort to help you rest and relax, wherever you are.

This premium made weighted blanket is carefully filled with glass microbeads, each sewn into individual compartments for even weight distribution. Don’t worry, the glass microbeads are completely noise-free, giving you a quiet and peaceful night’s sleep.

The outer blanket is a breathable, soft and warm Minky fabric, making it perfect for a nice cosy night’s sleep or a bit of calm downtime on the couch. In warmer weather, the outer blanket can be swapped for a cooler cotton cover so you can continue to enjoy the benefits of your weighted blanket, whatever the temperature. 

Machine washable, just pop your Lotus weighted blanket in a cold wash for that fresh sheet blanket feeling, all year round. Seriously, what could be better?

Want to learn more?

Email donna@peacefullotus.com.au or visit our contact page  to discover how you and your family can enjoy the many benefits of weighted blankets.