When it comes to sleeping, there are two types of people: those who can’t sleep without being tightly wrapped and those who can’t stand even a thin sheet in hot weather. Comfort isn’t the only consideration here, though.
Many of us need to be covered for a deeper reason, which has to do with how our bodies and minds react to light pressure. The feeling of being “tucked in” triggers the parasympathetic nervous system, a part of the autonomic nervous system that lowers heart rate, releases tension, and supports relaxation.
Regular, gentle pressure, like the one given by a weighted blanket, can reduce chronic pain and improve sleep quality, according to research from the University of California in 2011.
Research from Flinders University and the University of Adelaide has linked using a blanket to mental health benefits like lower anxiety and depression levels. However, people with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), insomnia, or autism spectrum disorders can experience it very differently.
How blankets can affect your body and mind
It sends a calming signals through the autonomic nervous system.
The consistent touch of a blanket transfers control to the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for rest and recovery. As a result, many people reach for a blanket even on warm nights. It’s not just a habit; it’s a biological signal that informs the brain when it’s safe to sleep.
According to research from the University of California, the body can feel more grounded and at relaxed when it’s under light pressure. Sleep psychology suggest that the brain is taught to slow down with bedtime routines (like using a favorite blanket or particular pillow). They’re sort of physical anchors that reduce distractions and signals when it’s time for rest.
Comfort with temperature is also important. Breathable fabrics can offer the same soothing effect without becoming too hot, which can help avoid physical stress that could disturb sleep if heat is a problem.
The benefits of sleeping with a blanket
Before bed, blankets can help give you a sense of calm that helps physical and mental relaxation, and this comfort can help adults with mild symptoms of anxiety and depression when paired with good sleep habits like avoiding screens right before bed, having a regular bedtime, and having dim lighting.
Heavy blankets are becoming more and more popular between parents of kids with ADHD or autism spectrum disorders because some, the extra pressure provides a comforting sense of security and calms their agitation. Some people may find it heavy or uncomfortable, which would increase rather than decrease their level of stress. Because of this, the experts say introducing them gradually and watching each person’s response.
By creating a feeling of security, blankets, whether or not they are weighted, can offer emotional support to those who suffer from insomnia. But according to sleep psychology, no single item can fix sleep problems like insomnia. In this case, is best to take habits, the bedroom setting, and general health into consideration.
Choosing the one that truly helps you rest
The right blanket can be a really powerful answer to rest and sleep when it activates the parasympathetic nervous system, but it all depends on the person in who’s using it. If using a blanket makes you feel more relaxed and less stressed, great, make it a nightly ritual. And to avoid thermal stress, adjust the weight and fabric based on the season.
If it’s too hot or uncomfortable, try using lighter materials. You can also focus on other basic principles of sleep psychology, like sticking to a schedule, using a cool, dark room, and not using a phone right before bed.