Weighted Blankets
I’ve had my weighted blanket for a few years now and it’s one of my most treasured items! Why? Because it feels like a hug and sends me to sleep almost instantly. It really is one of the best things for inducing deep sleep and some serious relaxation. In fact it’s so good that we all have one. So what is a weighted blanket?
Essentially it’s a blanket (with a removeable cover) filled with pellets or glass beads that provide a deep pressure all over your body. It’s honestly like the biggest, most comforting hug ever – you’ll feel like a swaddled baby; so soothed and calm! The deep pressure is distributed (almost!) magically, stimulating your body to release serotonin and dopamine – neurotransmitters responsible for regulating mood and promoting feelings of calm and wellbeing. Additionally, oxytocin is released creating feelings of security and stress reduction.
Activating these neurotransmitters will help when: you’re tired, but can’t sleep; enduring hot flushes/night sweats; have underlying stress; can’t concentrate; or even if you have ADHD (and yes, as long as you purchase the correct size, weighted blankets are suitable for children). Before purchase, check your weight and choose one that’s the right fit for you – around 10% of your body weight. Most companies, provide a sizing chart, so you really can’t go wrong.
I find that when I’m not sleeping well, I’ll slip under the blanket for a couple of nights and my sleep quickly recalibrates. The nervous system is soothed and any restlessness alleviated. Breathing deepens and I feel calm and safe and sleep like a baby. After a couple of nights, I reinstate my duvet and I enjoy quality sleep for months. The cool glass beads in my blanket also stopped night sweats in their tracks, which was an unexpected, but glorious and extremely welcome surprise!
Our blankets came from Gravity Blankets UK (other brands are available – not sure if I have to say that in my Blog?!!) and are still going strong – they wash really well and you can also replace the covers. So if you’re craving restorative sleep then a weighted blanket may be exactly what you need to experience the comfort and tranquility you deserve.
If you need further help when sleep is eluding you, reflexology will send calming vibes to your entire body – a little like hitting the relaxation button on your body’s remote control! Reflexology helps to ease tension, reduce stress and promotes a sense of deep relaxation. And when your body is nice and relaxed, sleep becomes so much easier.
Why not book in for reflexology now https://www.harmonyholisticscalne.co.uk/book-online/
With warmest wishes
Yvette
