How does a weighted blanket work?

A weighted blanket : what is it and what can it do for you?

The weighted blanket , also called Gravity Blanket, helps millions of people to get a better night's sleep. This goes much further than just 'sleeping better', because weighted blankets are also used successfully for depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive and developmental disorders.

Interesting, you may think, ''but how exactly does such a heavy blanket work and how can it help me?'' We are happy to explain it to you in this blog .

Table of contents

1. What is a weighted blanket?
2. Weighted blankets & the body's response
3. A weighted blanket for improved sleep quality
4. Weighted blankets in patients with chronic pain
5. Weighted blankets & medical conditions
6. Gravity Blankets weighted blankets, also for children

What is a weighted blanket?

You probably won't be surprised what a weighted blanket literally is: an extra heavy blanket . Yet Gravity Blankets also distinguish themselves from normal blankets in another way . The material is not only weighted, it is also extra soft, luxurious & comfortable. The weight of weighted blankets provides an instant sense of security, calmness and tranquility. There's a lot more to it, but maybe you can imagine it: the feeling of a light pressure (but more pressure than with a normal blanket ) on your body while you're sitting on the couch or lying in bed. Pretty calming huh?

Weighted blankets are successfully used for sleeping problems and also help with depression, anxiety and compulsive disorders. Other names for weighted blankets are: weighted blanket, weighted duvet, heavy blanket, weighted blanket, gravity blanket, sensory blanket, etc. They are also used in the treatment of developmental disorders, such as ADHD, autism, Asperger's syndrome, Down's syndrome, Tourette's syndrome etc. In addition, weighted blankets are suitable for adults and children. The positive effect of weighted blankets is also confirmed for sensory integration disorders .

Weighted blankets & the body's response

Time to zoom in further on the effect of a Gravity Blanket on the body . First of all, it is important to know that the weight of a weighted blanket depends on the body weight and height of the person. Our advice: choose a weighted blanket that is approximately 10% of your body weight.

Therapist Tina Champagne has found that the weight of the blanket helps to better understand body reflexes and regulate negative emotions. She recommends a weighted blanket to anyone who suffers from depression, stress, sleeping problems or panic attacks .

A weighted blanket for improved sleep quality

Sleeping problems are common and all have their own cause. From illness to stress and from a disorder to continuous thoughts; there can be countless reasons why you can't sleep. Fortunately, a weighted blanket can actually offer a solution in many cases.

Gravity Blankets promote the release of the happiness hormone serotonin and at the same time lower the level of the stress hormone cortisol. The subtle pressure exerted by the heavy blanket creates a (sometimes even unconscious) feeling of safety and security. This ensures optimal relaxation of your body and nervous system. There are also benefits to this, because this also causes the body to release the sleep hormone melatonin; for a peaceful and deeper sleep or ultimate relaxation on the couch. This way you benefit from more energy, better productivity and a more positive mood the next day.

It's quite a statement, but we almost dare to promise you that the quality of your life will increase by sleeping with a weighted blanket.

Weighted blankets in patients with chronic pain

Even people who suffer from chronic pain experience relief when they sleep under a weighted blanket . The subtle pressure has an analgesic effect. Current treatments can often be shortened or interrupted. Tina Champagne has observed in her patients that pain complaints find origin in different parts of the body , rather than in one specific place. This is where a heavy blanket can provide great relief . Especially in patients with very intense pain.

Weighted blankets & medical conditions

Weight blankets are medical devices and it is therefore important to follow some application directions . Do you experience respiratory, cardiovascular or circulatory problems ? Then we always advise you to consult your doctor before purchasing a weighted blanket . People diagnosed with scoliosis or diabetes would also do well to seek medical advice as well.

Gravity Blankets weighted blankets, also for children

Our weighted blankets are for both children and adults. Do you want to buy a heavy blanket for a baby younger than 12 months ? O first discuss this with the paediatrician.

Adults have more latitude in choosing the weight of their weighted blanket . Fortunately, you can try your Gravity ® Blanket for free for 31 days !

In addition to the benefits of a weighted blanket for general insomnia due to stress or racing thoughts, therapists recommend weighted blankets for the following illnesses and conditions:

The largest range of weighted blankets

At Gravity we have the largest range of weighted blankets. All handmade in Europe. Entirely in-house production.

Order your own Gravity ® blanket now ! Now temporarily from €309 for €169 !

Good sleep is vital. Invest in it!

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