Experts have shared that those suffering from anxiety and insomnia (among other conditions) may benefit greatly from investing in a weighted blanket.
Using these pieces of bedding has a similar effect to taking a pill that helps the whole body relax. Many turn to medication for sleep-related issues, but weighted blankets offer a solution without any of the side effects that can come from the use of drugs.
I was having a lot of anxiety last night and luckily I got a weighted blanket for my birthday. I got it and put it on top of me, almost immediately falling asleep. Now, obviously my anxiety didn’t go away, but typically when I do have it, I don’t sleep well.
— Elise Brummett (@lotus_elise092) August 6, 2018
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So what makes the weighted blanket a game changer for a good night's sleep? According to PopSugar the deep pressure that this product produces feels like being engulfed in a hug, which is precisely what the body needs to relax. The hug feeling from the blanket stimulates serotonin and endorphins in the body. These are a necessity for getting a good night's sleep because they are two calming natural chemicals. When the body is relaxed and calm, the result is that not only will an individual fall asleep faster but also they will also stay asleep longer during the night. In fact, studies have found that using a weighted blanket results in less movement during the nighttime and more hours actually spent asleep, as well as reductions in stress and anxiety. Of course, the blankets will not "cure" any disorders, but they certainly can help to alleviate symptoms.
This sounds amazing, doesn't it? Well for those who are eager to try one of these bad boys out there are quite a few options to choose from. Gravid, Mosaic, SensaCalm, and BlanQuil all have weighted blankets for sale. The prices vary depending on which company the blanket is purchased from but in general, they cost between $200 and $250.
Me climbing into my bed with my weighted blanket after not being home for two weeks: pic.twitter.com/EBDmmZvhEb
— Katherine (@Kitkatmaiville) August 6, 2018
Weighted blankets come in three different weights 15 lb, 20 lb, and 25 lb. As for how you should determine the correct size for you, Gravity recommends a 7% to 12% to body weight ratio. However, this math doesn't necessarily add up for us. If a person weights 100 lbs, then 12% of your bodyweight is 12lbs, a size not offered by any of the companies. If you want a weighted blanket, and let's be honest, we all do, do your research on each company to determine the best product and weight to fit your needs.
NEXT: WE TRIED IT - A REVIEW OF THE 'NODPOD WEIGHTED SLEEP THERAPY MASK'
