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Researchers believe that the weighted blanket serves as a form of therapy that stimulated safety and security when used.

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The Benefits of Using a Weighted Blanket

Updated May 27, 2022

Women lying awake beside a clock

Can a Weighted Blanket Help Me Sleep?

Many research studies on how sleep affects people point to the need for longer periods of REM sleep. Unfortunately, some people have trouble falling asleep and staying asleep. Using a weighted blanket has proven to help with improving the quality of sleep. This works particularly well for people who suffer from anxiety, insomnia, and restless leg syndrome as well as other things that cause sleep loss. Here are the benefits associated with using a weighted blanket:

Cuts Down on Anxiety - The journal Occupational Therapy in Mental Health published a research study that revealed 63% of people studied reported reduced anxiety when using a weighted blanket. The researchers believe that the weighted blanket serves as a form of therapy that stimulated safety and security when used.
Helps With Insomnia - A research study [PDF] published in the Journal of Sleep Medicine & Disorders showed positive effects of weighted blankets on insomnia patients. They were quoted as saying “When the participants used the weighted blanket, they had a calmer night’s sleep, with a decrease in movements. Subjectively, they believed that using the blanket provided them with a more comfortable, better quality, and more secure sleep.”
Soothes Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) - Doctors treating RLS patients have been recommending using weighted blankets more and more often. RLS is when your legs' muscles spasm and you have the urge to move your legs around frequently. Weighted blankets have proven to reduce this restlessness and calm the symptoms associated with RLS. Click here for more information on sleep disorders.
Calms your Mind - Many testimonials about the effects of using a weighted blanket mention the bonus of being able to 'shut down', or to 'turn off my brain'. Users have reported the ability to fall asleep much quicker than they ever have before using a weighted blanket due to its calming effect.
Can Calm ADHD Sufferers - Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, or ADHD, is a medical condition that affects attention, self-control, and the ability to sit still. Using weighted blankets has been shown to improve sleep and calm the mind of those who suffer from ADHD. By calming the mind and reducing anxiety, those with ADHD can find some relief by falling asleep faster and staying asleep for longer periods of time.
Can Improve Your Sleep - A weighted blanket can also help people who just aren't getting the best quality of sleep. Everyone has probably experienced a night here they toss and turn trying to get themselves prepared for sleep. Adding a weighted blanket can give a feeling like receiving a hug. Studies have shown that hugging increases levels of serotonin and melatonin, the brain chemicals associated with sleep and relaxation.
Helps With Autism - People with autism (mostly children) experience difficulty sleeping as a result of autism. Children with autism may struggle with some form of anxiety, OCD, or some kind of panic disorder. The weight of the blanket will help calm the nervous system and help ease some of the child's sleep disorders.

If you have further questions about the benefits of using a weighted blanket you can reach out to our bedding experts at 800-455-1052. They can answer any additional questions you have and recommend an ideal product if you're having trouble deciding on the best option. For a better understanding of a blanket and other sleep-related terms, check out our glossary

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