All The Benefits of Weighted Blankets

Time to catch those zzzs

A good night’s sleep is one of the most important things you can have to achieve mental, emotional and physical balance.

Many people find themselves struggling to wind down at the end of the day and get a full eight hours.

Many factors can influence your sleep, such as screen time before bed (put down the damn phone!) diet, physical and mental health – especially stress and anxiety.

Scientists are constantly trying to find methods to improve sleep, and some studies have found weighted blankets are a great answer.

If you’ve ever felt instantly soothed by a good hug or wrapped yourself up like a burrito, you already understand the benefit of pressure.

@thistooshallpass77 #autism #nervoussystemhealing #weightedblanket #regulation #latediagnosedautistic ♬ original sound – thistooshallpass77

Weighted blankets basically do the same thing, and they don’t even judge you for wanting to take a nap at 3pm. They use gentle, even pressure to help calm your nervous system, reduce stress and make drifting off to sleep a whole lot easier.

TikToks have been going viral for years talking about the benefits and appreciation people have for these weighted blankets.

The original weighted blanket could refer to The Magic Weighted Blanket, which was introduced to consumers in 1997, but the Gravity Blanket is typically associated with bringing the product to the mainstream after its viral campaign in 2017.

The blanket quickly became an internet sensation and was later named one of Time Magazine’s 50 Best Inventions of 2018.

Healthline has shared key information on weighted blankets using data from a study done in 2020. And apparently they’ve got a good few benefits.

  • Weighted blankets may help alleviate symptoms for people with anxiety, autism, ADHD, insomnia, osteoarthritis, and chronic pain through deep pressure stimulation, which relaxes the nervous system.
  • While generally safe, weighted blankets are not recommended for children under 2 years old or individuals with certain conditions like sleep apnea, asthma, or claustrophobia.
  • To choose the right weighted blanket, aim for one that is approximately 5% to 10% of your body weight. Consult a doctor before use, especially for children.

According to a survey done by The Sleep Doctor, approximately 41% of surveyed adults reported using a weighted blanket within a 12-month period.

There are lots of different weighted blankets on the market these days, with prices ranging between 50 and around 300.

Here’ some of our favs. Happy sleeping!

JYSK Weighted Duvet – €50

The Oodie Weighted Blanket – from €97.30

Cozy Earth Extra-Weight Cuddle Blanket – €264.76

Words by Nia Hayden