Have You Heard of a Weighted Blanket?
As you may remember, we made a healthier choice to switch to hardwood floors this past summer. That ended up in a bedroom makeover that took it from Victorian chamber to Moonlit beach. The first night back in the room, my husband and I slept deeply and felt so cozy. We both were amazed about the restful night and discussed the possible reasons.
Was it because we’d been exerting ourselves by putting everything in place, was it due to more space because fewer pieces of furniture and items were intentionally left out of the room, or was it something else?
After much thought and several nights more of restorative sleep, I realized that it was the blanket! More specifically, the weight of the blanket. I joked with my husband that it was weighing me down in bed. I had put on light flannel, ivory sheets, with a mocha colored quilt, topped off with a deep navy blue velvet blanket. My intention was to try one and then the other but, instead, ended up leaving them all in place.
As with most conversations these days, because I had used the word “weight” in combination with the word, “blanket,” I received an ad on my computer for “weighted blankets.” I was amazed that they’re a thing.
The weight of an actual weighted blanket should be about 10% of your body weight. Several weighted blanket manufacturers promote health benefits that include decreased stress and anxiety, lower blood pressure, and improved mood. They report that the sensation of "deep-touch pressure stimulation" is likened to a hug, or being held from shoulders to feet.
I read that, “Weighted blankets are a tool occupational therapists (OTs) often recommend for kids with ADHD, SPD, and autism spectrum disorders to help with calming. The weight is intended to provide proprioceptive input to the brain, which has a calming and organizing effect on the central nervous system.” This puts the autonomic nervous system into “rest” mode, further reducing some of the symptoms of anxiety, such as a quickened heart rate or breathing.
It was suggested that weighted blankets might be useful for adults suffering from Alzheimer's and dementia, which can cause feelings of agitation and anxiety, and result in disturbed sleep. “A weighted blanket or lap pad is a simple, non-drug option that can be used day or night. They promote deep sleep, reduce anxiety, calm nerves, and provide comfort.”
The fillers in one brand are glass micro beads which, as stated, are smooth to the touch and offer more weight compared to other filler options like sand, organic materials, and plastic poly pellets, which means fewer beads will be needed to construct the blanket.
There is a down side for the use of weighted blankets as well. The cost is higher than regular blankets, not all are easily machine washable, and some people feel claustrophobic under a blanket of any kind, but especially weighted ones.
Additionally, I learned that weighed blankets are not recommended for babies, orpeople with sleep apnea, chronic respiratory or circulatory issues, asthma, low blood pressure, or type 2 diabetes.
We’re going to stick with our layered blankets for now but if you think a weighted one might be helpful for you or someone you know, check with your health-care provider to find the right one.
Sleep well and stay enchanted!
Hugs.
Dr. Segal
DISCLAIMER: This information shared by Dr. Terry Segal is intended solely for your entertainment. Use at your own discretion. Dr. Terry Segal shall be held harmless for any adverse reactions. Information on this site is provided for informational purposes only and is not meant to substitute for the advice provided by your own physician or other medical professional.