Whether it’s hot or cold, you don’t know how to sleep without a blanket. What are the reasons?
Many people need to be covered at night, with a sheet in summer, even in the heatwave, and a duvet in winter. “This practice is very commonexplains Madame Amélie Boukhobza, clinical psychologist. The cover reassures and secures us. It is a protective and reassuring cocoon sometimes reminiscent of the comfort that the duvet gave us during our childhood.” Indeed, the cover takes us back to a certain form of conditioning found during early childhood.
Covering yourself at night helps you fall asleep. “Indeed, on a chemical level, the blanket helps regulate our body temperature. It acts as a micro-climate around our body. It sends signals of well-being to the brain.” As the night goes on, our body temperature tends to drop. Sleeping with a blanket prevents the cold from waking us up, which affects our sleep. “We are thus more relaxed and the conditions are more favorable for a good night’s sleep”describes our expert. Thus, covering yourself at night contributes to better quality sleep, whether the night is cool or hot.
The protection provided by the blanket would tend to reduce the level of stress and anxiety. A rare scientific study on this subject, the results of which were published in the journal “Harvard Medical School”, indicates that the weight imparted by a weighted blanket could even have therapeutic benefits. Being cocooned refers to the swaddling of babies, whose warmth and security contribute to good sleep. The blanket soothes and calms the nervous system. Although evidence is lacking, the blanket could have a beneficial effect on anxiety, behavioral disorders (including autism) and insomnia.
Being under a comforting weight, such as the duvet, activates our nervous system and results in a release of serotonin and melatonin. However, serotonin plays an important role in regulating mood and affects the sleep-wake alternation. As for melatonin, it is known to have a soporific action, thus causing sleep. “The duvet provides a space for oneself. Covering oneself during periods of great stress allows one to protect oneself.” The blanket could thus be an effective natural stress reliever.
Thanks to Madame Amélie Boukhobza, clinical psychologist.
