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Are Weighted Blankets Worth The Hype?
@blueeeemint
During the past 12+ months of lockdown here in Los Angeles, some could say that they’ve basically adapted to this new way of living — but some things, like hugs and a soothing touch, are sorely missed, particularly in these times of high stress and anxiety. Unfortunately, climbing right back into our mother’s womb is not an option. But there is another way to feel nurtured, and according to our research, it’s worth the hype: The weighted blanket.
It’s no surprise that the wellness industry has grown to be a massive business. We’re told to buy this or that — all in the name of self-love. But as conscious consumers, we’re also selective, well-informed, and we want to know if a product is really worth all the noise. After all, having a lot of options doesn’t always equate to having the right options. Fortunately, we’ve done the research on weighted blankets so that you don’t have to — and even found options that matched both our taste for aesthetics as well as our need for genuine functionality and results. And the info we’ve uncovered has all signs pointing to the fact that buying one of these babies is truly a purchase in the name of self-care, for a multitude of reasons.
We’re all for products that are truly functional and have incredible healing effects — keep reading to find out why weighted blankets fit that description to a tee, and are completely worth it.
Reduces Stress and Anxiety
Weighted blankets were intentionally designed to feel like a hug, which naturally increases melatonin and serotonin and decreases cortisol levels. Cortisol is a stress hormone that is activated by the sympathetic nervous system when your “fight or flight” response turns on, and serotonin is a chemical known to regulate your mood, affecting your anxiety, energy levels, and emotions — so this built-in blanket effect means that you’re getting all the benefits of a soothing, calming, anxiety-reducing embrace. Thanks to technology, wrapping yourself in one of these blankets is the equivalent to stress relief, using coziness to ease yourself into relaxation.
But that’s not all. The gentle pressure and calming side effect of weighted blankets are great for people who live with ADHD as well as for children with autism. The deep pressure touch that a weighted blanket provides feels nurturing, helping the mind to focus and slow down. This improves concentration and attention span, and for children with autism, it helps calm their energy levels and hyper-activeness. Because weighted blankets relax the nervous system, it can be a very supportive product for those suffering from hyperactivity, but also for cancer patients who are experiencing anxiety, stress, or even depression.
Maximizes Your Sleep
If you’ve been dealing with insomnia, you get it when we say that having a good night’s rest is essential to starting your day off right. If that’s what you’re seeking — and having trouble finding — the optimized comfort of a weighted blanket is ideal. The weight on your body has been shown to produce melatonin, a hormone that supports your natural sleep cycle; it’s been proven that increasing melatonin levels in your body helps with sleep deprivation.
So if you’re struggling with not getting enough sleep, waking up in the middle of the night, restless leg syndrome, or even nightmares, bringing a weighted blanket into your bedroom may be exactly what you are looking for.
Supports Our Wellbeing
According to reviews, weighted blankets are unbelievably comfortable. Some are made with bamboo and other breathable materials to maintain a feeling of freshness — which can be particularly helpful for hot sleepers. The deep pressure touch of the blanket helps reduce anxiety, soothes our nervous system, and supports our emotional wellbeing. Just like an actual embrace from a close friend — and totally amazing, if you ask us. Plus, many high quality blankets ensure that the weight remains evenly distributed throughout the night to offer all-around support.
Relieves Chronic Pain
In addition to all the benefits mentioned above, weighted blankets also offer chronic pain support, according to this article. The pressure stimulation from the blanket works by providing you with a nurturing sensation that alleviates your muscles from stress and helps you sleep throughout the night with fewer tosses and turns. If you are looking to use a weighted blanket for chronic pain relief, we would recommend combining it with another healing modality, such as a deep tissue massage or a hot bath with Epsom salts.
In this fast-paced world, a weighted blanket could ease you, balance you out, and slow things down to a more manageable pace. The calming effect can have major positive results, from an improved focus and mood to relief for muscle tension and chronic pain. All in all, they are at the top of our list for anyone looking to invest in a self-care essential. Our picks? The Cotton Napper by Bearaby, and the Cotton Weighted Blanket by Gravity — both available in the prettiest earth tones imaginable. Be sure to take your time finding the right one, and pay attention to the guidelines for weight recommendations — and then snuggle up in the embrace.
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