When it comes to bedtime routines, people fall into two camps: those who can’t stand even a thin sheet in warm weather, and those who can’t drift off without being fully cocooned, no matter how sweltering it gets.
How blankets make some people feel
Experts say this isn’t just about personal comfort. The urge to sleep under a blanket, even when the air feels thick and sticky, may be rooted in psychology and biology. That snug, tucked-in feeling activates the body’s parasympathetic nervous system — the part responsible for lowering your heart rate, easing tension, and helping you relax.
A 2011 study from the University of California’s Department of Anesthesiology found that the gentle, consistent pressure from blankets — similar to the effect of a weighted blanket — can help ease chronic pain and improve sleep quality.
The benefits of staying covered, even in the heat
Research has linked blanket use to potential mental health benefits in adults, including reduced anxiety and symptoms of depression. Studies from Flinders University and the University of Adelaide in Australia found that blankets can create a calming effect, helping the body physically unwind and the mind settle before sleep.
That said, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. While weighted blankets have gained popularity among parents of children with ADHD or autism spectrum disorder, there’s no conclusive scientific proof they help in every case. For some kids, they provide a soothing sense of security — but for others, they may actually increase anxiety or discomfort.
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