What are the benefits of a soft blanket?

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While some people have an emotional-support water bottle, I have what I like to call an emotional-support blanket. Not to be confused with a "blankie" gifted at childhood, my emotional-support blanket isn't just one singular blanket I carry around everywhere. Instead, it's any blanket that I can get my hands on.

It doesn't matter if it's 100 degrees outside or I'm visibly sweating after just finishing an intense HIIT workout; when sitting down, I will always place a blanket over my lap at any opportunity that presents itself.

Similarly to how people may enjoy placing a pillow over their lap when they sit down, a blanket provides an indescribable comfort for me. Psychologist Barbara Santini, a sex advisor at sex retailer Peaches & Screams, says that blankets can "increase the production and release of feel-good chemicals such as dopamine and endorphins. Higher levels of these chemicals can make you experience emotional comfort." This makes sense.

A blanket also keeps me warm and has become a safe barrier between my skin and the outside world. If my dog wants to jump on my lap, it's a layer of protection from his nails. If I want to eat food in bed, it becomes a crumb catcher so I can sleep on sheets later that night without the tater-tot remnants. If someone in the room wants to sneeze without covering their mouth, it shields me from the gross, germy particles that could land on my skin. (Though this is not fact-checked, I shall continue to believe this even if it's not true.)

"A blanket has become a safe barrier between my skin and the outside world."

Clearly, a blanket for me serves many different purposes. But even more so, any blanket I place over my lap also offers tons of anxiety relief — more than any sort of herbal supplement I've ever taken. And because of that, you can bet I have a blanket placed across my lap during any work-related Zoom meetings or whenever I'm watching a scary movie in order to self-soothe.

Child psychiatrist Helen Egger, MD, cofounder of children's mental health app Little Otter, believes my attachment to blankets could be similar to the benefits of using a weighted blanket, which "provide pressure stimulation that will relax the nervous system and is reputed to help people feel calm and content."

"The idea is that the extra pressure stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system and modulates the autonomic nervous system," Dr. Egger says. In other words, this means by having a blanket over me, I could potentially respond better to stressful things as they arise — at least in a calmer manner.

Though there's no definitive evidence that states that weighted blankets (or anything weighted, for that matter) is beneficial, there have been many claims that they can "reduce anxiety, insomnia, and other sleep dysregulation," Dr. Egger says.

That said, I don't need science to confirm what benefits a blanket provides for me — I know what to be true. And if you, too, want to try a blanket out for all the reasons above, allow me to put you on to two of my personal faves: the Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Throw ($147) and the Pottery Barn Faux Fur Ruched Throw ($143-$299, originally $179-$299).

Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Throw

From

$147

Pottery Barn Faux Fur Ruched Throw

From

$143

As Dr. Egger points out, if you find something healthy that helps you feel calm and relaxed (just as a blanket does for me), you should keep using it. And you bet I will. Because for me, a blanket, all by itself in its ever-amazing glory, somehow does it all. Maybe after reading this article, it will for you, too.

Discover the Benefits of Blankets for a More Relaxing Home

There's nothing quite like the comforting feeling of being wrapped in a warm blanket, especially during the colder months or when the weather turns chilly. Blankets not only provide us with comfort and warmth but also serve as versatile decor elements that can enhance the aesthetics of our living spaces.

What is the difference between a blanket and a comforter?

The difference between a blanket and a comforter lies in their construction and level of warmth. Blankets are single-layered and lightweight, providing breathable warmth. They are versatile and can be used as top layers on beds, throws on sofas, or additional layers for added comfort. Blankets are easy to maintain and come in various materials, sizes, colours, and designs. On the other hand, comforters are thicker and bulkier, filled with insulating materials like down feathers or synthetic fibres. They are primarily designed as the topmost layer on a bed, offering maximum coziness during colder nights.

Below we delve into the various types of blankets available, explore their versatility in home decor, and also highlight the numerous benefits of incorporating blankets into our daily lives to create a cosier and more relaxing home.

Types of Blankets 

Blankets come in a variety of materials, each offering its own unique set of benefits. Some popular types of blankets include:

• Fleece Blankets: Soft and lightweight, fleece blankets are perfect for providing a cozy layer of warmth without feeling heavy.
• Wool Blankets: Known for their excellent insulation properties, wool blankets are ideal for colder climates or those who prefer a bit of extra warmth during the winter.
• Cotton Blankets: Breathable and lightweight, cotton blankets are suitable for year-round use, offering comfort without causing overheating.
• Weighted Blankets: These blankets have gained popularity for their ability to promote relaxation and reduce stress by applying gentle pressure to the body.
• Electrical Blankets: Electric blankets provide customisable warmth and are perfect for those chilly winter nights.

Versatility of Blankets 

Blankets are not limited to their traditional use of providing warmth and comfort. They are incredibly versatile and can be used in various ways to enhance home decor and daily living:

• Home Decor: Throws and blankets can instantly add a touch of warmth and style to any living space. Drape them over sofas or chairs to create inviting and cozy corners in your home.
• Bonding and Connection: Sharing a blanket with loved ones fosters a sense of connection and strengthens relationships. Whether it's snuggling up with family or friends on the couch or having a picnic outdoors, these shared moments become even more special when wrapped in a soft blanket.
• Practical Uses: Blankets can serve multiple practical purposes, such as picnic mats, makeshift curtains, temporary pet beds, or emergency wraps in unexpected situations.
• Protection for Furniture: Placing a blanket on furniture protects it from spills, stains, and general wear and tear, extending the life of your beloved pieces.

Benefits of Blankets 

In this section we are defining the benefits of the blanket. Remember that the article isn’t just about the benefits of the blanket but also about using them in a cosier and more relaxing home. Take that into account when creating these points.  

• Comfort and Warmth: The primary function of blankets is to provide comfort and warmth, especially during colder months or chilly evenings. Improved
• Sleep Quality: Being swaddled in a blanket while sleeping creates a sense of security, leading to better sleep and reduced restlessness.
• Stress Reduction and Relaxation: Wrapping yourself in a soft blanket, particularly a weighted one, can trigger the release of calming neurotransmitters, helping to reduce stress and anxiety.
• Muscle Tension Relief: Blankets can help ease muscle tension and promote relaxation, making them perfect for winding down after a long day.
• Versatility in Home Decor: With a vast array of colours, textures, and patterns available, blankets can complement any interior design, adding warmth and style to your living spaces.
• Home Aesthetics and Coziness: By strategically placing blankets on furniture, you can create inviting and cozy corners throughout your home, making it a more welcoming space for both residents and guests.
• Cultural and Emotional Significance: Some blankets carry cultural or emotional significance, representing family traditions and a sense of belonging. In the African tradition blankets are gifted as wedding gifts, offered as labola, are used in initiation ceremonies and are also used for burial purposes.
• Support for Various Activities: Blankets are handy companions during outdoor activities like camping, providing warmth around the campfire or inside tents.
• Energy Conservation: Using blankets during colder months can reduce the need for excessive heating, leading to energy savings and environmental benefits.

Conclusion  

Embrace the power of blankets in creating a cosier, more relaxing home. From their versatility in home decor to their numerous health and emotional benefits, blankets are an essential addition to any household.

Whether you're looking for comfy blankets, affordable blankets, fleece blankets, throws or thick winter blankets, EDURA offers the best range of options to suit your needs with our affordable blankets for sale. EDURA is the number one supplier of blankets and throws in South Africa. View our range of blankets for sale online or visit our megastore in Carletonville to shop our full range of blankets on sale. So, cuddle up, enjoy the comfort, and let blankets transform your living spaces into warm and inviting havens of relaxation.