Benefits of Weighted Blankets for Stress, Sleep and Anxiety
Weighted blankets are a popular must-have item, and for good reason! These blankets weighted products, also called gravity blankets, throws, duvets, comforters or anxiety blankets, can provide benefits to children and adults with autism, adhd, anxiety, stress, insomnia, or sensory processing disorder.
Weighted quilts are designed to reduce stress and promote feelings of relaxation, which in turn can help you fall asleep more quickly. For many, pressure stimulation from a blanket pushing gently onto their body and weighing them down is calming. This sensation is intended to simulate deep pressure touch (DPT), a type of therapy that alleviates anxiety by distributing an even amount of weight across the body. DPT is comparable to a full body hug. When administered properly, some researchers have clearly demonstrated the effectiveness of DPT as a component in reducing anxiety in children and adults.
When looking at studies into the benefits of weighted products such as blankets, vests, shoulder soothers and weighted toys, participants in a number of studies have confirmed many suspected benefits and have seen first-hand how these items reduce many symptoms resulting from an overactive nervous system. Recent research has even shown that for many adults weighted blankets are their #1 rated choice for treatment, reducing stress better than any other option available to them - above consulting with doctors or taking medication.
Choosing the best weighted blanket for your body weight
When it comes to weighted duvet, choosing the right one can be a very personal decision. Some people may want lighter or heavier weights depending on their specific sensory needs; however, generally speaking occupational therapists recommend 10% of your body weight as an average starting point.
With anxiety blankets, you have choices in fabric or material. You can choose cotton for a breathable and machine washable fabric that is also soft to the touch. Or if you are looking for something even more luxurious then a sensory minky fabric is smooth with an extra-soft feel!
When you are shopping for a new blanket, take the time to look at how it is filled and ensure you get even distribution of the weight throughout the blanket.
Many cheap quilt blankets are not evenly weighted and can be uncomfortable as the pellets or beads may shift over night or even when sitting under them in front of the television.
There are good quality comforter blankets available though, that have different fills including poly pellets and glass beads that are sewn into small and even sized pockets. These will prevent a user from feeling squished and stop the fillings from sinking too far into one side and feeling like your blanket has lumps in it.
Facts:
1. A weighted blanket is a type of blanket that is filled with materials such as plastic pellets, glass beads, or sand to add weight.
2. The added weight is intended to provide comfort and deep pressure stimulation, which has been shown to provide a calming effect.
3. Weighted blankets are often used as a treatment for conditions such as anxiety, autism, and insomnia.
4. A typical weighted blanket weighs between 5 and 30 pounds.
5. The size of the blanket is also important, as it should be large enough to cover the entire body.
6. Weighted blankets should not be used on children under the age of 2 or on people who are unable to move the blanket on their own.
7. Weighted blankets should also not be used in hot weather or while sleeping on your stomach.
8. If you are pregnant, have a pacemaker, or suffer from respiratory problems, you should consult a doctor before using a weighted blanket.
How does the pressure of a heavy blanket assist with Sensory Processing Disorder?
Sensory Processing Disorder is a neurological disorder that affects the way a child processes sensory information.
Symptoms may include being easily overstimulated, trouble making transitions, meltdowns when overwhelmed, and more. Parents would be well aware that these symptoms can disrupt family life and make it hard for kids to learn at school or play with friends.
Weighted products, such as vests, cushions, toys, and lap blankets can reduce some of these symptoms by providing deep pressure input that stimulates or calms the nervous system.
At OT Warehouse we have sourced products from many suppliers so that not only are you able to find quality items in the one location, but also feel confident that these products will have your child or partner feeling safe and secure, along with reducing anxiety levels and getting a better night’s sleep.
Deep Pressure Therapy Products
Deep pressure therapy (DPT) is the main reason weighted items are so calming and popular. It is a type of therapy that provides treatments for many people with a range of conditions, but it is sometimes hard to find a therapist who can provide this service. As a result, the weighted blanket industry is growing rapidly.
DPT is a form of sensory input that provides proprioceptive input to the whole body through firm hugs, firm strokings, cuddles, pressure and squeezing. This type of tactile therapy has been shown to have calming and soothing effects on children as well as adults.
Statistics:
1. A weighted blanket is a type of blanket that is typically filled with materials such as plastic pellets, glass beads, or polypropylene to add weight.
2. Weighted blankets are often used as a treatment for conditions such as anxiety, autism, and insomnia.
3. A study published in the Journal of Sleep Medicine & Disorders found that use of a weighted blanket can help reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality.
4. A study published in the journal Autism found that weighted blankets may help reduce anxiety and improve sleep in children with autism.
5. A study published in the journal Frontiers in Psychiatry found that weighted blankets may help reduce symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
6. A study published in the journal PLOS One found that use of a weighted blanket can help reduce stress and improve sleep quality.
7. Weighted blankets typically range in weight from 2 to 10kg.
8. The size of a weighted blanket typically corresponds to the size of a standard bed.
Are you looking for the best weighted blanket?
You have come to the right store! OT Warehouse has sourced a wide selection of high-quality, affordable blankets for your mattresses that can help you sleep better and reduce anxiety. We have all sorts of weights, materials, styles, colours, and sizes so there is something for anyone and everyone.
So, if you like the idea of jumping into bed and support a better night's sleep than what you have been getting lately, or maybe you just need a throw blanket to toss over the legs on the bean bag; or perhaps you are just looking at ways to ease your anxiety levels, order now before it is too late!
