Weighted Blanket for Sleep

Weighted blankets that have become common in the past few years use glass micro-beads distributed evenly across a quilted grid to apply gentle pressure across the body. Effect is similar to being held or swaddled, a deep pressure stimulation that research suggests activates the parasympathetic nervous system. Standard recommendation is a blanket that weighs about 10% of your body weight, so for most adults that's 15 to 20 pounds. First time I tried one, the heaviness felt surprising but within 5 minutes I noticed my breathing slow down. Quilted pockets keep the beads from shifting to one side. Better designs use cotton rather than polyester because the weight already generates warmth and synthetic fabric makes it worse. I use mine every night now and falling asleep takes noticeably less time, though I can't separate the physical effect from the placebo of having a sleep ritual. Prices range from $50 to $200 depending on brand and materials. The ones with removable washable covers are worth the premium because a 15-pound blanket is difficult to wash as a single piece.