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The latest fashion trend is that people are seeking lightweight duvets made of down or light synthetic materials. However, it turns out that the coverings that weigh more have a better effect on the body in terms of health benefits.
Health and sleep
There is usually a fairly lively discussion about what we sleep on, but not about what we sleep under. However, both aspects are important.
Falling asleep in the right conditions ensures that your sleep will be of good quality, your body will properly regenerate, and you will wake up in the morning not sore and refreshed.
Heavier blankets
The weight of a blanket or cover serves as tactile therapy. Mattresses are usually designed to evenly distribute body weight. If, however, you are covered by a heavier blanket during the night, individual points on the body are stimulated, which helps the body relax better, feel “grounded” and also safer.
Clinical studies show that when these points are stimulated, the brain begins to release serotonin into the body. It is a brain neurotransmitter, also known as the “calming hormone.” Besides improving sleep quality, serotonin also has other functions, for example improving memory and the brain’s cognitive functions.
Help with illnesses:
- Parkinson’s disease
- Alzheimer’s disease
- bipolar disorder
- ADHD
- autism
- sleep disorders
- menopause
- any kind of anxiety
- Reducing anxiety leads to improvements in mental health in depression, various traumas, or even stimulates the body’s detoxification mechanisms.
These are the reasons why the use of heavier blankets is becoming increasingly popular.
Besides classic heavier blankets, special coverings are now produced that have their weight evenly distributed into smaller separate sections so that the weight does not shift from one part to another.
Benefits of heavy blankets
In 2014 an interesting study was published in the journal Pediatrics, in which 63 children aged 5 to 16 slept for 12 to 16 weeks either under a classic blanket or under a heavier blanket. After the end of the first phase both groups exchanged blankets and continued to sleep like this for 2 weeks. Parents and children reported that they preferred the heavier blanket for sleeping.
How to use it correctly?
A cover with increased weight should weigh from 7 to 14 kg — lighter for children, heavier for adults. If you are not sure, you can consult their use with your doctor (if they are familiar with them), or with a therapist who has experience with them. Their use is not recommended if you suffer from respiratory or cardiovascular diseases.
