The Weight of Stress

I am a highly anxious person who often times finds my chest burning when I lay down at night thinking about family, to-do lists, the state of the world and so much more. Yes, I take medication for it. Yes, I meditate. Yes and yes and yes... I have done it all and what I found helped relieve some of that burning and mind junk was allowing my cat to sit on my chest and purr - It just gave me a sense of calm and peace. The reality of it is, a cat won't sit there all night and also can't be counted on for much of anything on a regular basis. After some research and realizing the cat thing wasn't a good fix for me everynight, I decided to try a weighted blanket. 

Weighted blankets have become increasingly popular in recent years as a natural remedy for stress and anxiety. These blankets are filled with materials such as glass beads or pellets that add weight to the blanket, creating a deep pressure stimulation (DPS) effect. The result is a calming and soothing sensation that can help individuals with mental health concerns such as anxiety and insomnia.

One reason why weighted blankets are good for your mental health is their ability to reduce stress levels. DPS therapy, also known as deep touch pressure, has been shown to increase serotonin and dopamine levels in the body, which are neurotransmitters associated with feelings of happiness and relaxation. This can lead to a decrease in cortisol levels, the hormone responsible for stress. As a result, using a weighted blanket can help individuals feel calmer and more relaxed, reducing feelings of anxiety and improving overall mental health.

Weighted blankets are also helpful for those struggling with insomnia. DPS therapy can help individuals fall asleep more easily and stay asleep longer by providing a sense of comfort and security. The pressure from the blanket can also mimic the feeling of being held, which can be especially beneficial for individuals who have experienced trauma or struggle with attachment issues.

Additionally, using a weighted blanket can be an effective coping mechanism for individuals with sensory processing disorders such as autism or ADHD. The pressure from the blanket can help individuals feel grounded and reduce feelings of overwhelm or overstimulation.

Overall, weighted blankets are a natural and non-invasive way to support mental health and wellbeing. While they are not a substitute for professional treatment, they can be a helpful addition to a self-care routine for individuals looking to manage symptoms of anxiety, insomnia, or other mental health concerns.

The one I tried was from Eli and Elm. Their weighted blanket stands out as the best choice for me due to its high-quality materials, precise weight distribution, and excellent craftsmanship. Its use of premium, breathable fabric ensures comfort throughout the night, while the well-distributed weight provides deep pressure stimulation to promote relaxation and restful sleep.

They may not be a fit for everyone, especially if you are one that doesn't like something on them or if you may be claustrophobic, but for me it has helped to elevate some of the burning in my chest and my mind and frankly it feels like someone is giving you an ongoing hug and the science points to positive reactions from giving and getting hugs.

Find more information and pricing for Eli and Elm's weighted blankets here.