Weighted blankets are blankets that have been made heavier by sewing beads or other items in pockets throughout their fabric. These blankets are used in sensory integration therapy for people with disorders such as autism. The blanked provides what is called ‘deep touch pressure’ therapy, which has been shown to stimulate the production of serotonin and dopamine, which can have a calming and relaxing effect on a person.
Following are some benefits of sleeping with a weighted blanket:
• Alleviates the anxiety associated with, and incidence of, insomnia
• Improves quality of sleep
• Promotes melatonin production (a hormone that helps people to fall asleep)
• Mimics an embrace or a hug, which promotes a feeling of well-being
• Lowers anxiety levels
• Helps alleviate the symptoms of obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Improves behavior of children with attention deficit hyperactivity (ADHD) disorder
• Lowers frequency of panic attacks
• Improves a person’s mood