Every now and then, mainstream trends produce something of actual value. Most trends are over-hyped or completely forced objects, often through paid endorsements and the urge to show off. This time around however, something actually useful came into the spotlight. Although being treated as magical cure for ‘anxiety’ and as though we don’t understand how it works, weighted blankets are still worth your eye.
What Is A Weighted Blanket
A weighted blanket is just as the name suggests, a weighted blanket. The designs vary but the basic premise consists of a down comforter with compartments filled with pellets/beadlets of varying materials. The consistent compartment pattern allows the blanket to drape over the body evenly, giving that comfy feeling and making it work.
How Does A Weighted Blanket Work
Despite the useless pondering of so-called ‘experts’ or the idiotic amazement of journalists, the answer is simple. Similar to why sleeping on your side or cuddling something helps you sleep, weighted blankets mimic the touch of a human being. Several thousand years ago, we didn’t have fires to keep us warm throughout the night, so we huddled together for warmth. In addition to our reproduction and safety, we evolved to release endorphins, happy-chemicals that made us feel good when we had human contact. Because of this, weighted blankets make us release endorphins such as serotonin and Oxytocin that calm us, and therefore help us sleep faster and deeper. Body pillows, stuffed animals, sleeping on your side, and the need to sleep with a blanket (even on a hot summer night) all help us sleep through the same means.
Benefits of Weighted Blankets
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Reduced Anxiety & Calming Effect
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Improved Insomnia
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Deeper, More Peaceful Sleep
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Enhanced Recovery
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Improved Mood
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Better Overall Health
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Additional Benefits of Reduced Stress & Better Sleep
How To Choose & Where To Buy
The common method for choosing a weight is calculating it to be around 10% of your body weight. This is sound advice for most, but I would suggest women and skinny persons consider a little lighter. Weighted Blankets come in increments of 5lbs generally, so you will have to round your numbers.
Aside from the weight, choosing a blanket comes down to personal preference. The colour, material, pattern, and overall aesthetic as well as price should be considered. Also be sure the outer material isn’t something that irritates your skin. Some brands are listed below:
Apex of Men 