The Benefits and Use of Weighted Blankets: A Growing Trend for Better Sleep
Islamabad:Blankets are traditionally designed to keep us warm and comfortable, but a new innovation has taken the comfort factor to another level—*weighted blankets*. These blankets, which are filled with materials like glass beads, pellets, or cotton, are gaining popularity for their calming effects and potential health benefits.
The trend began when Rhonda James, a banker from Charleston, South Carolina, received a weighted blanket as a gift from her husband. Initially skeptical, Rhonda was amazed at how quickly the blanket helped her fall asleep. “It felt like being hugged by something really big,” she shared. As colder weather sets in, many people are opting for heavier blankets to not only stay warm but also to reduce stress and help them fall asleep faster.
### What Are Weighted Blankets?
Weighted blankets come with extra weight, usually filled with materials like glass beads or pellets, which are evenly distributed throughout the blanket. According to Dr. Neil Walia, a sleep medicine expert at the University of California, Los Angeles, the pressure from the blanket on your body can calm your nervous system, potentially helping to alleviate anxiety. The uniform pressure signals to the brain that you’re in a calm environment, and may even trigger the release of oxytocin, the hormone responsible for promoting feelings of comfort and reducing anxiety.
### Can Weighted Blankets Improve Sleep?
While research on weighted blankets is still limited, initial studies suggest they may be beneficial for certain individuals. Much of the research focuses on people with sleep disorders or mental health issues, rather than the general population. In a study involving 120 people with insomnia, those who used a weighted blanket reported better sleep quality compared to those with lighter blankets. Similarly, a study with 67 children with autism found that while the blanket didn’t significantly improve their sleep, both the children and their parents preferred the weighted blanket over regular ones.
Another study on 94 individuals with chronic pain revealed that while the blanket didn’t improve sleep, it did help reduce pain more effectively than lighter blankets.
Despite the limited evidence, sleep experts suggest there’s no harm in trying weighted blankets, especially for those who haven’t had success with traditional therapies. Dr. Daniel Brown, a sleep medicine expert at Weill Cornell Medicine, recommends that patients consider weighted blankets after trying other treatments. “If it doesn’t cause any harm, it might help,” he says.
### How to Use Weighted Blankets?
Experts advise that healthy adults should choose a blanket that is about 10% of their body weight. For example, if someone weighs around 65-70 kg, they should consider a blanket weighing 6-7 kg. However, weighted blankets are not recommended for small children, as they may hinder their movement and breathing. Additionally, those with breathing difficulties or sleep-related issues should consult a doctor before using a weighted blanket.
### Price of Weighted Blankets
Weighted blankets can be quite costly, with prices in the U.S. ranging from $50 to $300, depending on the size, weight, and quality of the blanket. The added materials contribute to the higher cost, but for many, the benefits of a good night’s sleep are well worth the investment.
While the evidence supporting the benefits of weighted blankets is still growing, they continue to be a popular choice for those looking to improve their sleep quality, reduce anxiety, and experience more restful nights.
