In a recent trend, many people are turning to weighted blankets to help them sleep. Studies show that the blanket’s deep touch pressure can keep you asleep for longer, giving you the rest that your body needs. Plus, for those with anxiety, weighted blankets offer a much-needed sense of calm. If you’re one of many suffering from sleep apnea in Lakeway, you may be wondering if you can benefit from using a weighted blanket as well. Read on to learn the answer!
The easiest way to describe how sleeping with a weighted blanket feels is that it’s like being enveloped in a warm hug from a loved one. The secret lies in the design—a weighted blanket applies gentle and even pressure throughout the entire body. This sensation is known as “deep pressure stimulation,” and research shows that it can have positive effects on the mind and body. The stimulation lowers arousal of the nervous system, which may often be overactive if you have anxiety. Plus, weighted blankets lower the heart rate, helping you achieve overall calmness and relaxation. Simply go to sleep in the environment that you’re used to (most people like a cool, dark bedroom). Get in bed and slide the weighted blanket over your body to enjoy its effects—it’s that easy!
While weighted blankets can bring you countless benefits, there are 3 significant points that are worth highlighting:
Also known as the “feel-good hormone” that generates feelings of attachment, this hormone helps regulate your sleep cycle. Especially during the REM cycle, oxytocin levels increase. For those with sleep apnea, this is important because studies show that higher oxytocin may reduce sleep apnea symptoms.
The deep pressure stimulation caused by weighted blankets reduces cortisol, which is a hormone that stimulates your stress response. When you have high levels of cortisol, or you’re feeling stressed, it’s difficult to fall and stay asleep. Thankfully, a weighted blanket can help by lowering your levels of cortisol to make it easier to get a good night’s rest.
Weighted blankets come with the added benefit of being incredibly comfortable, and you can choose different products based on your preferences. Many people also enjoy the added warmth they provide. Combined with an oral appliance from your dentist in Lakeway, a weighted blanket is something you can rely on night after night.
Are you ready to count sheep with ease and relieve your sleep apnea symptoms? It could be as easy as adding a weighted blanket to your bed!
About the Practice
Dr. Winston Eaddy and Dr. Daniel Eaddy are a father-son team of dentists who combine their extensive experience and training to treat sleep apnea without the use of a CPAP machine. To learn more about their alternative solutions for a better night’s rest, they can be reached through their website or by phone at (512) 263-4252.
0 comments