Warm blankets, especially weighted ones, can help improve afternoon calm by providing a soothing, gentle pressure that promotes relaxation. This pressure, known as deep pressure stimulation, mimics the feeling of a hug and can trigger the release of calming hormones like serotonin, dopamine, and oxytocin. These chemicals help reduce stress hormones such as cortisol, which lowers anxiety and creates a sense of peace and comfort.
Weighted blankets apply even, gentle pressure across the body, which activates the parasympathetic nervous system—the part responsible for calming the body down. This can slow the heart rate and reduce feelings of restlessness or tension, making it easier to relax during the afternoon slump. The warmth from a blanket also adds to this calming effect by soothing muscles and providing a cozy environment that encourages the body to unwind.
People with anxiety, sensory sensitivities, or sleep difficulties often find that using a warm or weighted blanket helps them feel more grounded and less overwhelmed. The calming tactile input from the blanket can reduce sensory overload and improve mood, which is especially helpful during stressful or busy parts of the day. Additionally, the increase in serotonin can support better sleep patterns later on by helping the body produce melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep.
In summary, warm blankets, particularly weighted ones, improve afternoon calm by combining comforting warmth with deep pressure stimulation. This combination helps lower stress hormones, increase feel-good neurotransmitters, and create a relaxing sensation that can ease anxiety and promote a peaceful state of mind.
Sources
https://amerisleep.com/blog/weighted-blanket-benefits/
https://majesticcareaba.com/blog/benefits-of-weighted-blankets-for-autism/
https://noxnox.eu/blogs/news
https://cannabisclinic.co.nz/sensory-strategies-do-fidgets-and-weighted-blankets-work-for-adults/
