Therapeutic & ‘Medical’ Considerations

Weighted blankets are most widely known for their ability to reduce anxiety; however, the uses of weighted blankets extend far beyond basic anxiety disorders. By working on both the parasympathetic and sympathetic systems within the nervous system to calm the body, this “body hug” sensation can provide comfort to those suffering from everything from insomnia to PTSD. A 2006 study from the Occupational Therapy in Mental Health Journal shows that of those tested, “63% reported lower anxiety after use, and 78% preferred the weighted blanket as a calming modality.” To put it simply, weighted blankets provide comfort, calm the senses, and lift our mood.

For further reading on the research behind weighted blankets:

• NYTimes: Weighted Blankets for Sounder Sleep?
  A Swedish study found that men and women with depression or other mental health ills slept better when using the popular therapeutic aids.
• Abstract from the Journal Occupational Therapy in Mental Health
  Exploring the Safety and Therapeutic Effects of Deep Pressure Stimulation Using a Weighted Blanket
• Abstract from the Journal of Complementary Medicine
  The biologic effects of grounding the human body during sleep as measured by cortisol levels and subjective reporting of sleep, pain, and stress