Scientifically proven to soothe babies and assist their sleep, the gently weighted pressure simulates a parent’s touch. The resulting “snuggle” sensation promotes a decrease in cortisol levels, helping to ease restlessness while increasing serotonin and melatonin. Essentially reducing stress, increasing relaxation, and setting the stage for quicker, deeper sleep.

deep pressure stimulation.

Deep-Touch Pressure Therapy (DPT) can be administered through the simple act of being hugged, or held. DPT not only assists in the release of serotonin and dopamine (the same neurotransmitters that promote feelings of relaxation) but also helps to reduce cortisol levels (the stress hormone). It’s no wonder your baby feels their best when in their favorite person’s arms. You’re naturally alleviating their stress and anxiety just by holding them.

Similarly, weighted garments provide DPT through a deep pressure stimulation that can produce light, soothing therapeutic levels. The result is the “snuggle” sensation your infant craves from you and is scientifically proven to help ease restlessness, promote calm and relaxation, and assist your child’s sleep.

what the research says.

Most existing scientific research focuses on young children, often looking at those with autism spectrum disorders, and adults who suffer from anxiety. The conclusions similarly point to the application of a DTP demonstrating a probably calming effect on the alleviation of anxiety.  It is unsurprising that in a study administered to Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome infants, researchers found statistically significant results that echoed the previous research weighted blankets’ effectiveness. Specifically, when comparing weighted to non-weighted blanket use, the NICU infants’ heart rates calmed and their Finnegan scores significantly decreased. 

In the same study that looked into the use of weighted blankets with Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome infants, safety was also a critical element being assessed. What they discovered was an absence of identifiable adverse events, consistent with previous studies of weighted blanket use among other populations 6-8 years of age. Throughout the duration of use, vital signs, including temperature, were observed to be stable. You can read more on that study here.