If you’ve ever felt soothed by a comforting hug or a heavy quilt, you already understand the principle behind a weighted blanket. These blankets—typically filled with glass beads or plastic pellets to add extra heft—are designed to provide “deep pressure stimulation,” a gentle, evenly distributed weight that helps calm the nervous system. Once used mainly in clinical and therapeutic settings, weighted blankets have become a popular tool for improving sleep, reducing anxiety, and enhancing overall well-being.
Here’s a closer look at the science-backed benefits and practical advantages of using a weighted blanket.