Sometimes you just need a hug. Or the feeling of someone lying on you. We get it. While a weighted blanket isn’t the same as human touch, it can help give you the calming pressure and stillness you need to relax when you feel a little less than grounded.
If a weighted blanket is something you’ve never heard of, well, it’s exactly what it sounds like: a particularly heavy blanket. They usually weigh between five and 30 pounds. They can be made of a thick woven knit, or a tightly woven material that’s quilted and filled with a material, such as small glass balls, to make it heavier.
These blankets are used as a form of deep touch pressure therapy for a number of different afflictions that hinder our ability to relax or get good rest. Some of the most common of these issues are feelings of anxiety or insomnia. Even if we’re not feeling super anxious or don’t consider ourselves insomniacs, the even distribution of weight and extra warmth over our bodies as we sleep can be incredibly relaxing, helping to lull us quickly into restful, uninterrupted sleep.
The pressure from a weighted blanket can also help induce the production of serotonin. This not only eases those angsty, high-stress feelings that make us feel wired when we’re trying to fall asleep, it also helps set our circadian clock for shut-eye, as serotonin naturally converts to melatonin in the body.
Weight from the blanket has a calming effect on our nervous system and muscles, and can help with tension, soreness, restless leg syndrome, and even menstrual cramps. If you’re thinking, “Ahem, I don’t want anything pressing on my uterus when I’m cramping,” fear not—no localized pressure is added.
Now that you have the 411 on the benefits of using a weighted blanket, it’s time to choose how heavy of a blanket you should get. Luckily, it’s pretty simple.The general rule of thumb is to choose one that is close to 10 percent of your body weight. So if you are around 120 pounds, pick a blanket that is 12 pounds. Closer to 150? A 15-pound blanket might be right for you.
Sunday Citizen is known for its super snuggly throws and blankets, and this weighted one is no exception. It gets its density from glass pearls along with thousands of pieces of clear quartz, rose quartz, and amethyst.
This silky blanket was designed with hot sleepers in mind. The cover is made with cooling lyocell, a plant-based material derived from eucalyptus.
Technically not a weighted blanket, but the same concept in pillow form. It also blocks out light and sound.
This breathable cotton blanket weighs 12 pounds and comes in four soothing colors.
Some final food for thought: weighted blankets are also just straight-up comforting, like a cuddle, making them the perfect sleep accessory year-round.
The content provided in this article is provided for information purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice and consultation, including professional medical advice and consultation; it is provided with the understanding that Poosh, LLC (“Poosh”) is not engaged in the provision or rendering of medical advice or services. You understand and agree that Poosh shall not be liable for any claim, loss, or damage arising out of the use of, or reliance upon any content or information in the article.
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