Mar 28, 2022
Are Weighted Blankets Worth It? Your Questions Answered
Weighted blankets have been gaining traction in the U.S. and elsewhere across the globe. You’ve probably seen a lot of advertisements for them while scrolling through social media. More people than ever are relying on the soothing pressure of these cozy blankets to help them fall asleep naturally as opposed to taking over-the-counter sleeping pills. The concept behind weighted blankets — deep touch pressure stimulation — is thought to trigger the release of mood-boosting chemicals, making it easier for the user to relax and fall asleep.
However, these stress-busting blankets typically don’t come cheap. While you can find weighted blankets for around $100, the most sought-after blankets can cost upwards of $200. Given their high price tag, you may be wondering: Are weighted blankets worth it?
What Are Weighted Blankets?
Weighted blankets are like regular blankets, only much heavier. First introduced by occupational therapists as a treatment for autism, they’re now considered a must-have for anyone looking to get a little more rest and relaxation. These popular therapeutic aids weigh anywhere from five to 30 lbs. and deliver soothing pressure to the body, which experts refer to as “deep touch pressure therapy.” This gentle pressure is thought to relax the parasympathetic nervous system and increase feel-good chemicals in the body that make you feel happy and calm.
Weighted blankets are considered a promising therapeutic treatment for many health conditions because they’re natural and relatively safe. Their meteoric rise in popularity in the last few years has led to several spin-off products, including weighted eye masks and weighted robes.
What Are the Claims?
Weighted blankets have long been used to treat autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and sensory processing disorder. In recent years, though, their purported health benefits have increased tenfold, with a growing number of people now using them as a supplemental treatment for conditions like restless leg syndrome and chronic pain.
Today, they’re commonly praised for their ability to reduce stress and promote a healthy night’s sleep. Weighted blankets decrease the stress hormone cortisol and boost the production of feel-good hormones like serotonin and dopamine, which make you feel relaxed and help you drift off to a peaceful slumber.
Do They Work?
As it turns out, the benefits of weighted blankets aren’t purely anecdotal. These cozy blankets have been the subject of a number of scientific studies over the past several years, with many showing promising results.
In a 2020 study published in the American Journal of Occupational Therapy, researchers combed through previous literature from 2018 and concluded that weighted blankets may be an appropriate therapeutic tool for anxiety.
Another 2020 study published in the same journal explored the impact of weighted blankets on sleep and autistic adults. The participants in the study reported improvements in sleep, sensory issues and stress reduction after using a weighted blanket.
People with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and ADHD may benefit from the use of a weighted blanket as well. In a randomized controlled study published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, researchers found that weighted blankets were a safe and effective intervention for insomnia in patients with the aforementioned conditions.
So, Are Weighted Blankets Worth It?
In a time where many people are experiencing unprecedented stress and sleep challenges, weighted blankets are an undeniably appealing product. But are they worth it?
Based on the anecdotal and scientific evidence, we certainly think so! In today’s fast-paced society, it’s never been harder to turn your brain off, relax and recharge. Weighted blankets exert gentle pressure on the body, forcing us to slow down and bring our minds back to the present. They also mimic the feeling of being hugged. And let’s face it, who couldn’t use a hug right now?
Still, that doesn’t mean that every weighted blanket is worth the money. If you want to reap the maximum benefit from a weighted blanket, make sure you’re investing in one that’s top-quality — like our Gravity Weighted Blanket. Breathable yet cozy, our Gravity Blanket comes in varying weights to calm your central nervous system and help you get your best night of sleep ever.
When purchasing a weighted blanket, it’s also important to consider your sleep needs. For instance, if you’re a hot sleeper, you may want to consider sleeping under a cooling weighted blanket. Unlike regular weighted blankets that are made with heavy, heat-trapping fabrics, our cooling weighted blanket is constructed from moisture-wicking materials to keep you sweat-free while you snooze.
Get Your Cooling Weighted Blanket
Wrapping Up
To sum things up, yes, weighted blankets are worth it. Countless studies have shown that people who sleep with weighted blankets feel more relaxed and have an easier time getting to sleep.
Ready to experience your best night of sleep? Try a weighted blanket from Gravity Blankets and experience the difference today!
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