Weighted Blanket Sleep Benefits
A surgeon colleague shared an article with me regarding a study on the negative effects of doctors who are on call at the hospital. For those unfamiliar, being on call refers to how hospitals ensure coverage for specialties like surgery. It’s distinct from working a night shift, which typically ends after 12 hours. On-call duties have no set end time — you can be roused from sleep for emergency surgery and still have your regular patient appointments and surgeries the next day. The study’s results were unsurprising, highlighting issues like poor sleep quality affecting deep and REM sleep, as well as impairments in fine motor skills and cognition.
Luckily, most of us aren’t surgeons, allowing us to prioritize getting sufficient sleep. One effective solution I discovered is using weighted blankets to enhance sleep quality. A weighted blanket offers soothing pressure for relaxation and better sleep, acting like a comforting hug. While not a new concept, it remains valuable. Remember, medication isn’t always the solution; exploring alternative methods can bring benefits.
Weighted Blanket Benefits
Deep Touch Pressure (DTP): By applying gentle pressure, a weighted blanket can trigger the release of serotonin and melatonin, enhancing relaxation and quality of sleep.
Calming Influence: The pressure can induce a soothing impact on the nervous system, potentially alleviating feelings of anxiety and stress.
Enhanced Sleep Quality: Certain individuals have shared that incorporating a weighted blanket into their sleep routine aids in quicker sleep onset and promotes deeper, more rejuvenating rest.
Sensory Benefits: Weighted blankets are commonly employed in sensory integration therapy for individuals experiencing sensory processing disorders.
Addressing Insomnia and Anxiety: Weighted blankets can offer significant benefits to individuals grappling with insomnia, anxiety, or specific sensory processing disorders.
Weighted Blanket Considerations:
Choosing the Right Weight: Selecting the appropriate weight for your body is vital. While a typical suggestion is approximately 10% of your body weight, personal preferences can differ.
Size: Make sure the blanket adequately covers your body without being overly large or too small. Weighted blankets are available in different sizes, so select one that fits your requirements.
Temperature Considerations: Weighted blankets might feel too warm for some individuals, particularly those crafted from heat-retaining materials. Take into account the climate and your own comfort preferences.
Not Suitable for Everyone: Weighted blankets may not be appropriate for individuals with specific health conditions like respiratory or circulatory issues. If you have concerns, seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Cost: Premium weighted blankets may come with a higher price tag than standard ones, hence it’s wise to factor in your budget when making a choice.
Tips for Using Weighted Blankets
Ease into it: For those unaccustomed to weighted blankets, begin with brief sessions and slowly extend the duration as your body acclimates.
Cleaning Guidelines: Refer to the manufacturer’s cleaning recommendations, as certain weighted blankets may need specific care.
Individual Response: Weighted blankets can be beneficial, but their effectiveness varies from person to person. What suits one individual may not suit another.
Have Questions? Ask Dr. Corinne.
Weighted blankets are becoming increasingly popular due to the potential benefits they can provide for individuals with anxiety, sleep disorders, or other conditions. However, it’s important to understand that they may not be suitable for everyone and to use them with caution. It’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional before trying out a weighted blanket, especially if you have any underlying health conditions. With the right guidance, weighted blankets can be a helpful tool in promoting relaxation and improving sleep quality. Remember to take into account your own preferences, budget, and body’s response when choosing a weighted blanket. So next time you’re feeling overwhelmed or struggling to fall asleep, consider giving a weighted blanket a try. You may just find your new favorite bedtime companion. Keep in mind that weighted blankets are not a cure-all solution and should be used in combination with other healthy habits for best results. If you have any additional questions about weighted blankets, don’t hesitate to ask Dr. Corinne.
