Podcast Summary
Exploring the Hidden Gems of LinkedIn and Weighted Blankets: LinkedIn is a goldmine for discovering passive job seekers, while weighted blankets offer potential stress relief benefits, but it's crucial to consider their science and effectiveness.
LinkedIn is a valuable resource for businesses looking to hire professionals, as it hosts a large number of users who aren't actively seeking new jobs but might be open to the right opportunity. Sandra, a professional mentioned in the podcast, emphasizes that she wasn't found through other leading job sites but on LinkedIn. Additionally, LinkedIn users tend to frequent the site more than other job platforms, making it a prime location for discovering top talent. Another intriguing topic discussed on the podcast was the effectiveness and science behind weighted blankets, which have gained popularity for their supposed benefits in reducing stress, relieving anxiety, and improving sleep quality. An independent occupational therapist, Kim Griffin, shared insights on the history of weighted blankets, originating from a device called a hug box, and their potential benefits for various populations, including children with autism. The podcast also touched upon the varying price points and marketing claims of weighted blankets, leaving listeners wondering if these factors impact their efficacy. Overall, the podcast encourages listeners to delve deeper into the science and potential benefits of weighted blankets and the untapped talent pool on LinkedIn.
Weighted blankets for relaxation and reduced anxiety: Weighted blankets offer deep pressure stimulation, activating the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety. Optimal weight is 10% of body weight.
Weighted blankets can provide a sense of deep touch or pressure stimulation, which can help activate the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety. This sensation is believed to create a calming effect, helping users feel safe and secure, making it easier for them to sleep. The weight of the blanket is important, with a general recommendation of 10% of one's body weight for optimal results. Studies suggest that weighted blankets may be effective in reducing anxiety, although more research is needed to confirm their impact on sleep. Safety considerations include ensuring users can easily remove the blanket and that it doesn't impede breathing.
Considering safety precautions with weighted blankets: Weighted blankets can improve relaxation and sleep, but ensure proper weight, positioning, and supervision for safety, especially for children.
Weighted blankets can provide significant benefits for relaxation and sleep, but it's important to consider safety precautions, especially when using them with children. The weight of the blanket should be appropriate for the user's size, and it should not hang over the bed, making it harder to remove. If using a weighted blanket for sleep, it's recommended to keep it on the bottom half of the bed. While a heavier duvet can offer similar pressure and comfort, it may be warmer than a weighted blanket, and breathability should be taken into account. The US Consumer Product Safety Commission has reported incidents of children getting trapped in weighted blankets, emphasizing the need for supervision when using them with children. It's essential to ensure the safety and comfort of the user while enjoying the benefits of a weighted blanket.
Study on Weighted Blankets for Sleep Problems in Children with Autism: A study found no significant difference in sleep improvement between using weighted blankets and non-weighted blankets for children with autism.
A study led by Professor Paul Greengrass at Evelina London Children's Hospital investigated the use of weighted blankets to help treat sleep problems in children with autistic spectrum disorders due to parent reports and high cost. The study involved 73 children and used sleep diaries, questionnaires, and actigraphy to measure sleep. Contrary to expectations, no significant difference was found between the use of weighted blankets and non-weighted blankets in terms of sleep latency, total sleep time, or parental observations. Despite the initial hope, the study did not provide evidence that weighted blankets improve sleep in children with autism.
Study on weighted blankets for autistic children's sleep inconclusive: While weighted blankets may provide comfort and relaxation, their impact on sleep duration for autistic children is unclear. Deep pressure stimulation, like weighted vests, might aid focus and reduce fidgeting for individuals with ADHD.
While weighted blankets are widely believed to help children with autism and improve sleep quality, a study conducted on their effectiveness in enhancing sleep duration proved inconclusive. The children and parents in the study preferred using weighted blankets over non-weighted ones due to the belief that they provide comfort and relaxation. However, there is evidence from other studies suggesting that deep pressure touch or stimulation, such as weighted vests, can help individuals with ADHD stay focused and reduce fidgeting. This theory, which originated from occupational therapist Jane Eyres in the 1970s, highlights the importance of sensory pressure and arousal levels. Despite the complexities of the autism spectrum, research in this field continues, and the full potential of weighted blankets remains an open question. For adults like Teresa who struggle with sleep, a cognitive behavioral treatment for insomnia is a more effective and proven solution.
Deep touch therapy with weighted blankets reduces anxiety: Weighted blankets activate parasympathetic nervous system, reducing anxiety and promoting sleep for some individuals, especially those with anxiety or autism.
Weighted blankets, a non-medication therapy, can help reduce anxiety through deep touch or deep pressure therapy. This activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which slows heart and breathing rates, counteracting the body's fight or flight response. While not everyone may find deep touch comforting, weighted blankets can be particularly effective for individuals dealing with anxiety, especially those on the autism spectrum. However, for individuals with conditions like ADHD, whose sleep difficulties may not be rooted in anxiety, weighted blankets may not be the most effective solution. Overall, non-medication therapies like weighted blankets offer promising alternatives for managing insomnia and anxiety.
Weighted blankets may help reduce anxiety but not proven to improve sleep for children with autism or other sleep disorders: Weighted blankets can potentially reduce anxiety, but there's no solid evidence they significantly enhance sleep for kids with autism or sleep disorders. Families often prefer using them.
While weighted blankets have been reported to help some individuals, particularly those with anxiety, fall asleep more easily, there is insufficient evidence to suggest that they effectively treat insomnia or significantly improve sleep quality for children with autism or other sleep disorders. The calming effect of a weighted blanket may help reduce anxiety, but studies have not shown consistent evidence of improved sleep duration or reduced nighttime awakenings. If considering a weighted blanket, it is recommended to not exceed 10% of the user's body weight and ensure proper supervision for children. Additionally, a 2014 study found that families preferred using weighted blankets, even if there was no significant change in sleep patterns observed during the study. Weighted vests and other objects have shown promise in reducing anxiety and improving focus for individuals with ADHD. Ultimately, the decision to use a weighted blanket should be based on individual needs and preferences, and it may be beneficial to try borrowing one before making a purchase.
Check weight of weighted blankets for children as they grow: Weighted blankets can improve sleep, but their effectiveness may change as children grow. Regularly check the weight to ensure it continues to help.
The effectiveness of weighted blankets for sleep can change as children grow, and it's essential to check the weight regularly. The speaker also emphasized that everyone is different, and what works for one person might not work for another. If sleep is a priority, it's worth trying a weighted blanket, even if it's just for the placebo effect. The discussion also touched upon the upcoming investigation into motion sickness remedies and the promotion of a science podcast series with interesting guests and topics. Lastly, the importance of having a comprehensive health care plan, such as UnitedHealthcare's Health ProtectorGuard fixed indemnity insurance plans, was mentioned to help manage out-of-pocket costs. Additionally, the speaker shared their passion for being a great gift giver, thanks to the convenience and rewards offered by 1800flowers.com's celebrations passport.
