What are weighted blankets and how do they work?
Weighted blankets are a safe and natural way to reduce anxiety, assist emotion regulation and improve sleep quality. With benefits for all ages, weighted blankets result in feeling grounded, comforted and calm in a physical and psychological way.
At Happy Senses, we pride ourselves as experts in sensory wellness. We're here to provide you with all the information you need to find the best product for your needs.
So, let's get started! What is a weighted blanket?
Well, on the surface it's as simple as it sounds... a weighted blanket is a blanket that is heavy, much heavier than a regular blanket.
How does it work?
The weight acts as a type of deep touch pressure (DTP) stimulation that engages the proprioceptive sensory system. DTP is gentle, distributed pressure on the body, which can be achieved through the use of weighted blankets, weighted laps, cushions and toys, massages and even hugs!
When the weighted pressure is gently applied to your body serotonin levels are increased and your nervous system relaxes. Serotonin is a chemical in the body that helps to regulate mood and emotions, and produces a calming effect. The serotonin then naturally converts to melatonin, which helps the mind and body to relax and rest.
What are the benefits?
There are numerous benefits that are supported through evidence-based research for a wide range of mental, neurological and physical conditions.
These benefits include:
- reduce stress and alleviate anxiety
- improve self-regulation behaviours
- regulate emotions and moods
- reduce restlessness and agitation
- improve focus, attention and concentration
- provide calmness and relaxation
- better sleep quality
Weighted blankets are gaining popularity due to the calming effects, which are beneficial for people experiencing anxiety. Stress and anxiety are universal issues that can affect anyone, and weighted blankets offer a natural and safe intervention and preventative tool that can empower self-care and improve mental health and wellbeing.
What weight is recommended?
The standard recommendation is to choose a weight based on approximately 10% of the individuals body weight, plus an extra 500 grams. Choosing the right weight can also vary depending on the individuals' sensory preferences or needs and as such, some people prefer a lighter or heavier weight. If you are interested in a weighted blanket for a specific need, your occupational therapist or psychologist can provide advice. Alternatively, if you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch with us and we can help you decide on the best product for you or your child.
How are they made?
At Happy Senses, all our weighted products are hand-crafted with the highest quality and care in Newcastle, Australia. Our weighted blankets are double layered and double stitched to ensure the best strength and durability. We offer two weighted filling options: plastic poly pellets or micro glass beads to provide the best product for you.
With a flair for gorgeous colours and luxurious textures, our beautiful range of weighted blankets offer additional tactile and visual sensory benefits to make you feel happy and relaxed in style.
Discover our luxury weighted blankets range to find your perfect source of calm and serenity.
Shop online: www.happysenses.com.au
Contact email: bliss@studiobliss.com