Weighted Blanket Benefits
Think of a weighted blanket as a long lasting, warm hug providing comfort and security to those who use them. When gentle weight is combined with cozy fabric and some sewing love, a weighted blanket is born. The weighted blanket's purpose is to deliver light to deep uniform pressure, while creating a relaxing experience and calming therapeutic effects. Weighted blanket benefits have long been recognized in occupational and behavioral settings, and now they are becoming more mainstream. Current research and various medical trials are also acknowledging both the objective and subjective benefits of using these therapeutic comforters, weighted vests, wraps and lap pads.
It's important to note that weighted items should not be used with infants, toddlers or anyone with a disability where the weighted item cannot be moved.
How Do Weighted Blankets Work?
Weighted blankets, gravity blankets, anxiety blankets, weighted quilts, weighted wraps and other weighted items work by providing what’s known as Deep Pressure Stimulation (DPS). DPS has been shown to activate the parasympathetic nervous system in the body by creating a relaxed, calm and composed state of mind. The sympathetic nervous system which is responsible for the “fight or flight” response which often is a driver of anxiety, fear and stress. The deep pressure stimulation provided by a weighted blanket, vest, lap pad or wrap provides a calming effect that helps many people with various conditions. The comforting weight and pressure also drive the mind to focus on the physical sensations of the body and release the anxious thoughts in the mind.
What Are the Benefits of Weighted Blankets?
There have been many studies researching the benefits of weighted blankets, comforters and quilts. A 2020 randomized, controlled study by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine showed weighted blanket users lessened the severity of their insomnia, slept better, and had more daytime energy. They also experienced reduced anxiety, fatigue and depression. Another study showed 63% of people reported lower anxiety after using a weighted blanket.
- Reduces Anxiety
- Calms Restlessness
- Improves Sleep Quality
- Reduces Insomnia
- Increases Daytime Alertness
- Increases Focus
- Eases Restless Legs
- Reduces Pain
- Reduces Fatigue
What Conditions May Benefit by Using a Weighted Blanket?
Although most people would value from the use of a weighted comforter or another weighted therapy item, people with certain conditions may especially benefit from the calming effects they provide. Below is a list of conditions that have been shown to benefit from deep pressure stimulation, including the use of weighted blankets.
- ADHD
- Autism
- Anxiety
- Arthritis
- Depression
- Fibromyalgia
- Insomnia & Other Sleep Disorders
- Parkinson's Disease
- PTSD
- Restless Leg Syndrome
- Sensory Processing Disorder
How Do I Make a Weighted Blanket?
You’ve come to the right place! Roly Poly pellets and glass beads make the perfect filling and stuffing for your weighted blankets, lap pads, shoulder wraps, weighted stuffed animals and other weighted items. The best part about making your own weighted blanket is that you can customize the size, weight and fabric. The possibilities are endless...Check out the link below to get detailed step-by-step instructions for making a weighted blanket of your own!