It’s unimaginable how often we spend our nights tossing and turning, and the only thing that can help is having something to cover us with. It seems that sheets or blankets have a miraculous power, and when they rest on us, we fall asleep faster. Even on hot nights, it’s no different. Here’re 5 reasons why we should sleep with a blanket, and once you understand why, everything will make a lot more sense.
They work to regulate body temperature
We are warm-blooded creatures, which means our bodies accept the responsibility for or regulating our internal temperature, and this is what helps us stay warm. However, when we are in deep sleep, all of our control disappears — that’s when we look to the things around us for help.
They are sheets, duvets and blankets that help our body change and maintain the temperature we need.
They are a crucial part of our sleep routine
We are always living with habit, and this has an enormous impact on why we need our blankets. Even if it doesn’t necessarily mean we feel safe, we have been using blankets our entire lives and it has been part of our routine ever since. When we go to bed and cover ourselves with a blanket, our body is receiving a sign that it is time to sleep.
Lessen feelings of stress and anxiety
Serotonin is one of the “feel-good” chemicals that plays a key role in maintaning us happy and calm. When we’re stressed and anxious, it can be hard to fall asleep. However, once we get some shut-eye, the levels of this neurotransmitter develop and those feelings start to fade away.
They help you fall asleep
Blankets create a microclimate: a barrier in which the temperature does not change much. They help to keep the skin and surrounding factors that cool our body from affecting us as much.
This way, we tend to fall asleep faster and have better, less disturbed sleep.
They make us feel safe and secure.
Blankets spark our sense of security because the most popular fear we had as children was the fear of darkness. So when that feeling started, we would cover ourselves completely. That feeling of security still stays with us, when we are under our blankets.
Sleep is an essential part of our well-being and health, and the role of blankets in improving sleep quality cannot be overstated. The act of covering ourselves with a blanket triggers a series of physiological responses that are deeply connected to our biological rhythms. It is more than just a physical comfort; it is a psychological signal to our brain that it is time to wind down and prepare for rest. This deep connection between the mind and the body is what makes a blanket such a powerful tool for relaxation and sleep.
In addition to helping us sleep faster, blankets play a key role in ensuring the quality of our sleep. A well-regulated body temperature is crucial for achieving deep sleep cycles. Without a blanket, the body might experience temperature fluctuations that disrupt the natural progression of sleep stages. These fluctuations can lead to frequent awakenings or a restless night of tossing and turning. By providing a consistent and comfortable temperature, blankets ensure that we stay in the optimal range for uninterrupted, restorative sleep.
Psychologically, blankets also create a sense of comfort and protection. As we grow older, we may face new stressors and anxieties, and the feeling of safety associated with a blanket can help alleviate some of those pressures. The weight of the blanket on our body, especially if it’s a weighted blanket, can offer a comforting sensation known as deep touch pressure, which is linked to increased serotonin and melatonin production. These two neurotransmitters are vital for regulating mood and sleep, helping to reduce stress and enhance the quality of rest.
Moreover, blankets can also contribute to better sleep hygiene. A well-maintained bed, including a clean blanket, creates a designated space for relaxation, signaling to the body that it is time to relax. This ritual is essential for setting the right environment for sleep. In a world filled with distractions, such as technology and work, establishing a consistent bedtime routine is essential for improving overall sleep quality.
In conclusion, blankets are much more than simple items of bedding. They serve as an essential tool in regulating our body temperature, promoting emotional comfort, and creating a safe, restful environment for sleep. Whether it’s the physical warmth or the psychological sense of security they provide, blankets have a significant role to play in our nightly routine. So, next time you’re preparing for bed, remember the comfort and security that your blanket offers and embrace its power to help you fall into a peaceful and rejuvenating sleep.