Are Weighted Blankets Good for Anxiety?

Are weighted blankets good for anxiety? If you’re like most people, you probably have a go-to method for managing anxiety. But what if there was a way to relieve anxiety that didn’t involve pills or potions? Enter the weighted blanket. Weighted blankets are said to offer all sorts of benefits, from reducing anxiety to promoting better sleep. But do they really work? Let’s take a closer look at the science behind weighted blankets to see if they’re worth the hype.

Weighted Blankets & Their Benefits

Weighted blankets have become increasingly popular in recent years, as many people are discovering their calming effects. Weighted blankets use small amounts of weighted material to evenly distribute pressure across the body which helps us to feel secure and relaxed.

They are also thought to increase serotonin levels and reduce cortisol, thereby providing a sense of comfort that can be especially beneficial for those with anxiety, sensory processing disorder, or insomnia.

Research has found that sleeping with a weighted blanket can increase slow-wave sleep and could therefore help us fall asleep faster and experience deeper sleep quality. Although weighted blankets aren’t a cure-all by any means, they do offer an interesting natural tool that may aid better sleep and relaxation. There are many other benefits of weighted blankets as you will see.

Here is one of my favorite weighted blankets

How Weighted Blankets can help with Anxiety

Weighted blankets have been rising in popularity as a much-needed remedy for those struggling with anxiety. These health-promoting products are designed with the right blend of weight and pressure that provides security and comfort to those who feel overwhelmed or anxious.

Weighted blankets are not just aesthetically pleasing; they stimulate the production of positive hormones while providing incredible healing benefits, such as improved sleep and reduced stress levels by increasing serotonin levels in the body.

By using this cleverly designed tool, individuals can soothe their anxious states and gain more control over their mental wellbeing, allowing themselves to experience all life has to offer without being weighed down by fear or nervousness.

This May Also Interest You: Best Weighted Blankets for Kids

Tips on How to Choose the Right Weighted Blanket for Yourself

When deciding to purchase a weighted blanket, it’s important to consider several factors:

Size

First, think about the size of the blanket you need. If you are buying a blanket for an adult, look for one that fits easily over a queen- or king-sized bed, allowing enough material on either side to keep out drafts.

Proper Weight

Second, decide what weight is right for you. Heavy blankets provide good pressure therapy while still being comfortable to sleep under.

Fabric

Third and finally, consider the type of fabric you would prefer. Remember that certain fabrics can shift around easily or hold heat better than others. Taking all these factors into consideration can help you choose the right weighted blanket for your needs!

Using a Weighted Blanket for Maximum Benefit

One of the most effective ways to enjoy the benefits of a weighted blanket is to check with your doctor to ensure that its weight is suitable for your size. It’s important to look for a blanket that’s ten percent of your body weight, as too heavy a blanket can be overbearing and limit restful sleep.

Once you find the right match, make sure to use it consistently every night on top of your own bedding to maximize relaxation and reduce stress and anxiety before going to bed. Try pairing it with calming music or lavender essential oil for an even more restful sleep experience!

Learn More About Weighted Blankets: The 5 Best Washable Weighted Blankets for a Deeper Sleep

FAQs About Weighted Blankets for Anxiety:

How long does it take for a weighted blanket to help anxiety?

A weighted blanket has become a popular tool for helping to manage anxiety. While the exact time needed for the blanket to make an impact on one’s anxiety levels vary depending on the person, there is evidence that suggests those who sleep with a weighted blanket often experience better quality of sleep, calmer nerves and improved sense of comfort than they had before using one.

Such changes in behavior can lead to reduced overall anxiety over time; however, it must be noted that a weighted blanket cannot cure or resolve underlying psychological issues associated with anxiety and other mental health difficulties. It should always be seen in conjunction with traditional treatments such as talking therapies and/or medications prescribed by a qualified medical professional.

How heavy should a weighted blanket be for anxiety?

For those dealing with anxiety, weighted blankets can help reduce stress. The right weight is important in achieving this benefit; the blanket should be heavy enough to provide a soothing sensation while not being so heavy that it causes discomfort. Generally speaking, 10% of the individual’s body weight plus one or two pounds is considered ideal for serious calming effects.

To help ensure comfort levels and maximize relaxation, doctors and therapists recommend having multiple sizes for different individuals or occasions; for instance, a lighter-weight blanket could be used during daytime activities and a heavier one at night. With the proper weight and regular use, weighted blankets can go a long way towards reducing anxiety.

How does weighted blanket help with anxiety?

Weighted blankets provide a sense of comfort and security, especially to those struggling with anxiety. Many people suffering from anxiety find the deep pressure touch sensation of a weighted blanket soothing and calming. That same feeling of being tucked snugly into bed helps them relax their muscles and fall asleep quicker; in time awakening more invigorated and persevering through anxious moments more calmly.

Weighted blankets are helpful because they decrease stress-related hormones like cortisol, which can result in reducing insomnia as well as symptoms like depression, panic attacks, night terrors, and sensory overload that often accompany anxiety disorders. Ultimately, weighted blankets help bring individuals suffering from anxiety one step closer to a healthier lifestyle free from fear and distress.

Final Thoughts on Weighted Blankets & Anxiety Relief

Weighted blankets can be a great way to help soothe anxiety, but it is important to remember that they may not work for everyone. Early research suggests they can be beneficial to those who struggle with restlessness and restful sleep, although some individuals may find them somewhat restrictive or too heavy.

It is also possible that the relief from anxiety depends on other factors such as the individual’s home environment and lifestyle habits. While there is still much research to be done in order to understand the true potential for weighted blankets for relieving anxiety, the initial results are promising and worth exploring further.