“Deep pressure stimulation (DPS) refers to a type of tactile sensory input that involves firm but gentle pressure applied to the body,” says Jane. “This deep pressure causes the body to switch from running the sympathetic nervous system to engaging the parasympathetic nervous system.”

The parasympathetic nervous system works to soothe you by slowing the heart rate, relaxing muscles and encouraging the calming ‘rest and digest’ response. Jane adds that there’s scientific evidence that touch lowers the stress hormone, cortisol, and increases the happy hormones, oxytocin and serotonin.

“If you’re feeling stressed, DPS can create a level of calmness, provide relief and comfort, and aid with sleep.”

“Deep Pressure Stimulation can be provided in the form of hugging, holding or gentle squeezing, massage, weighted vests and weighted blankets,” Jane notes. “Weighted items stimulate the sensation of touch, similar to massage or acupressure and may alleviate symptoms of stress and anxiety.”

It’s also particularly useful for people who have insomnia and a co-occurring mental health disorder, such as anxiety, depression, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and bipolar disorder.

Research shows people with autism or sensory processing disorder may benefit, too.

There has been a number of studies looking at the benefits of Deep Pressure Stimulation through weighted blankets. A 2016 study found that participants who wore a weighted blanket during wisdom tooth extraction showed more activity of the parasympathetic nervous system, indicating lower stress, than those treated without the blanket.

Another study published by Occupational Therapy in Mental Health found that 63 per cent of participants who used a 13.6kg weighted blanket reported lower anxiety after use.

Research published in the Journal Of Sleep Medicine And Disorders in 2015 showed that participants who used a weighted blanket slept longer and calmer and reported feeling more comfortable.

Text: Bauer Syndication

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