If you are struggling to fall asleep at night, a weighted blanket may be the solution you need. A weighted blanket is designed to mimic the sensation of being hugged. Because of this, they can help you feel secure and relaxed. Many people use them for calming anxiety, soothing racing thoughts, and reducing stress.

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What Is a Weighted Blanket?

A weighted blanket is essentially a heavy blanket. Designed out of materials like plastic pellets, these blankets can weigh 15 pounds or more. In theory, the added weight increases the pressure around your body so that you can feel calmer and more relaxed.

In previous research, scientists have found that hugs make people feel calm and secure. Weighted blankets are intended to mimic this effect. In one research study, scientists looked at people who were getting a wisdom tooth removed.

During the procedure, one group of participants wore weighted blankets. These participants had more activity in a portion of the nervous system that is normally activated when someone has a low level of stress.

Because of the calming effects of weighted blankets, many parents use them for children who have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or autism.

Mother and her baby enjoying a blanket. Photo by Tatyana Tomisckova via iStock by Getty Images

Research studies support this usage. In one study, researchers gave young students weighted vests. These students were less likely to fidget and more likely to pay attention in school.

The Benefits of Weighted Blankets

Today, adults can use weighted blankets for conditions like anxiety, depression, and insomnia. When you wrap yourself up in a weighted blanket, it gives you the sensation of being held or hugged. Because of this, weighted blankets can help you feel calm and relaxed.

In a Swedish study, researchers found 31 men and women who suffered from insomnia. The participants were told to use weighted blankets for the next two weeks. At the end of the two weeks, the individuals reported having a calmer night’s sleep. They were also less likely to move during their sleep.

Because a weighted blanket weighs more than a normal blanket, people are less likely to move around while they sleep. It also helps people feel secure and comfortable.

Feel relaxed under a weighted blanket. Photo by Fizkes via iStock by Getty Images

All of these factors work together so that you can enjoy less insomnia and a better quality of sleep. In a 2015 study, researchers found that 63 percent of adults reported having less anxiety when they used a weighted blanket. A total of 78 percent of adults liked having a weighted blanket available when they wanted to calm down.

A weighted blanket provides some of the following benefits.

• It helps to calm anxiety, ADHD, and depression
• Weighted blankets reduce stress
• When people use weighted blankets, they experience less insomnia
• People are less likely to move in their sleep while using weighted blankets
• Weighted blankets can improve the quality of your sleep
• These blankets offer deep, intense muscle stimulation

Which Weighted Blanket Is Right for You?

Because weighted blankets are a fairly new invention, scientists are still trying to figure out what size will work best for each individual. Currently, manufacturers recommend using a weighted blanket that is about 10 percent of your body weight.

In general, you want your weighted blanket to be between 7 and 12 percent of your body weight. For children, manufacturers recommend using a blanket that is 10 percent of the child’s body weight with an added pound or two.

There are a number of different companies that make weighted blankets. One of the best blankets is available from Nest Bedding.

Weighted blanket from Nest Bedding. Photo courtesy Nest Bedding

At Nest Bedding, you can get a luxurious weighted blanket that comes in three different sizes for twin, king, and queen beds. This blanket is made out of soft fleece and weighted beads. It can weigh 15, 20, or 25 pounds. Made in California, this weighted blanket is a powerful therapeutic tool that you can use for a range of different conditions.