My Security Blanket: Huggaroo Weighted Blanket

Linus (from Peanuts) was on to something... 

#2

Heavy Makes You Happy. You’ve probably been hearing a lot about weighted blankets. It’s believed that weighted blankets help reduce anxiety and stress and can improve one’s sleep. Though there still needs to be more scientific studies, these blankets may also be useful for relieving chronic pain and depression, and help those with autism and ADHD. In fact, these therapeutic blankets have been used for several years to help patients with mental and physical trauma and have actually been used during certain surgeries, to lower stress in patients.

Weighted blankets are said to have calming and relaxing effects by providing pressure that activates the parasympathetic nervous system. Called “deep pressure stimulation” or "deep pressure touch," it is similar to the benefits of massage. Users have described their experiences with using weighted blankets as being nestled in a cocoon or being swaddled. Some even liken it to being hugged.

A weighted blanket should weigh between 7 - 12 percent of your body weight. It shouldn’t be so heavy that it restricts movement.

I tested the 15-pound Huggaroo Weighted Blanket ($129.99). It has a soft, removable, machine-washable duvet cover. The duvet is secured to the inner weighted quilt with fourteen double ties and loops to prevent shifting or settling of the food-grade polypropylene pellets inside that give the blanket its weight. 

The first time I used it, it felt a little heavy, like a luxurious X-ray apron, and I had to take it off. Subsequently I got used to it and fell asleep pretty easily. My issue is more with tossing and turning, and getting an overactive mind to shut off. I noticed that I am less likely to toss and turn, because of the weight. It's not always as great at helping me stay asleep, however. Sometimes when using the blanket, I'll get too warm, and it’s not easily tossed off. I have to make an effort to roll it off of me. Fortunately, at those times I was able to quickly get back to sleep (something that I often have trouble doing).

People with certain conditions should talk to a doctor before using a weighted blanket. It might not be good for those with sleep apnea, asthma or other breathing issues, since it might put too much pressure on the chest and could disrupt breathing, or for those who have claustrophobia (I suspect the snugness could actually feel too tight, giving them the feeling of being confined.)

I also avoid using the blanket when I have neck and shoulder pain because (in my case) it makes it worse.

All that being said, I love the feel of the ultra-plush Minky duvet cover, which is machine washable. I love snuggling up in the blanket on the bed to watch television (yes, I know, bad habit), although with this blanket, the TV ends up watching me. On cool days during the spring and summer, I will probably use it without the weighted quilt. 

For information, visit huggaroo.com.

Bubble Bath Bliss

A soothing bubble bath is one of my favorite things to do, especially after a busy day or a strenuous workout. My old apartment had a large claw-foot tub that was extremely difficult to climb out of—and not for the reason you think! I didn’t want to leave! 

Taking baths is a favorite pastime activity for many of us. In fact, it has it’s own special day—National Bubble Bath Day on January 8. Bubble baths are a great way to relax, to soak away stress and soothe aching muscles, tired feet, and an exhausted mind.

I alternate using foaming bath products with bath salts and oils, because bubble bath products can be drying, but it’s just not as fun without those bubbles! There are a few potential down sides to taking bubble baths. As a person of color, I’m particularly susceptible to dry skin conditions, and long hot baths can further dry out the skin. Bath water that is too hot can aggravate certain skin conditions like eczema (atopic dermatitis) and can even be unhealthy if you have certain diseases like diabetes or have high blood pressure, conditions that affect many women of color.

Here are tips to help you avoid the problems associated with bubble baths and to reap the benefits.

The Benefits 

Hot water increases blood circulation to the skin and increases the flow of oxygen, which is great when you have sore muscles and stiff joints. Hot water opens up the pores and helps release toxins from the body. Along with candles, the right scent, and soothing music, the warm water is simply heavenly, especially at end of the day.

Precautions

Avoid frequent hot baths. When the water is too hot the heat breaks down the skin barrier and makes it more prone to irritation and dryness, according to dermatologist Dr. Jean Ho.

According to the Mayo Clinic, taking frequent hot baths can also lead to vaginitis, an inflammation of the vaginal area. A common form is a yeast infection. Hot baths don’t actually cause yeast infections but can cause you to become susceptible to them.

Also avoid very hot baths if you have circulation problems, high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease and are pregnant. If you can’t climb into the top comfortably, (and you tend to feel itchiness afterwards) it’s probably too hot. The water should be close to body temperature. When in doubt, consult your doctor about whether hot baths are safe for you.

Beware of Bath Ingredients

• Certain ingredients could disrupt the natural balance of the vaginal area by killing off the good bacteria that controls fungus growth. 
• Some ingredients might be irritating (like surfactants and fragrances found in store bought bubble bath and bath gels) and make the condition worse.
• Irritation, itching and burning can be symptoms of non-infectious vaginitis, caused by an allergic reaction to perfumes.
• If using a heavily scented bubble bath, put a little baking powder (which helps to relieve irritation) in the bath. 
• Also note that while bubble baths are soothing, they are not good for relieving vaginal dryness.
• Check ingredients of store bought bubble bath if you have sensitive skin or tend to have allergies. Bubble bath can also aggravate these conditions.
• Don’t take bubble baths if you have a urinary tract infection, which could have ingredients that will hamper recovery.

Dry Skin. Because you are typically in a bath for a prolonged period of time, if you have dry skin, certain bubble baths can strip away natural oils from the skin, resulting in flaky and itchy skin. If you have eczema, bubble baths (due to certain ingredients and hot water) can cause dry patches of skin to flare up.  Use a bath soak that is free potentially irritating ingredients and that are made for muscle relief and dry skin.

To control what is in your bubble bath, try making your own. 

Here are two natural recipes:

Queen of the Nile Bubble Bath

It’s well known that Cleopatra enjoyed a bath of milk and honey. And for many of us, a long bath has once again become a luxury! Milk has lactic acid, which is good for exfoliating, while soothing and moisturizing the skin, and honey has antiseptic qualities and is also moisturizing. Add a light oil for extra softness and an essential oil to match the mood you’d like to evoke.

  ½ cup powdered milk

  ½ cup honey

  ½ cup liquid Castile soap

Optional:

  ½ cup of oil (olive, grape-seed, etc.)

  A few drops of essential oil (like lavender or chamomile for relaxation or lemon or eucalyptus to feel energized)

You can pour the entire mixture under running water and swirl it around to distribute into bath water. If you use less, store any remaining mixture in the refrigerator. Use within two-three months.

Gentle Homemade Bubble Bath

  1-quart warm water

  1 ½ cups liquid Castile soap (or a 4 ounce bar, grated)

  2 tablespoons of vegetable glycerin

  5 drops of essential oil

Mix ingredients in a glass or ceramic bowl. Pour into a large (preferably dark) glass airtight container. When ready to use, shake and pour ¼ cup under running water.

REVIEW: Sound Oasis Sleep Therapy Pillow

The first time I used my Sound Oasis Sleep Therapy Pillow, I was testing it out in order to write a product review. I listened to Stevie Wonder and ended up listening to my entire collection of Motown anthologies. I didn't get much sleep that night, but I felt cozy under a warm comforter, my head pressed against the pillow as my favorite music flowed from inside. Then one night during a particularly hectic week when a deadline for six stories loomed just a few days ahead, I was tossin' and turnin', as the old Bobby Lewis song goes, and adjusting pillows, when I noticed a cord sticking out from inside one of them.

I couldn't believe it. That pillow had been resting against the headboard as mere decor for more than a year, handled only to remove for laundering, the satin pillow case that protected it. I shook my head and connected the pillow to a portable CD player beside the bed, and this time I popped in a soothing CD from the Aquae Sulis Spa (JW Marriott, Las Vegas) and before it reached track number 10, fittingly called "Stolen Slumber," I was in slumber land.

Music can be a great tool for relaxation therapy and has been proven to help reduce stress, ease depression and, as I can attest to, help relieve sleeplessness. It also helps if you chose the right music.

The Sound Oasis Sleep Therapy Pillow is available in a standard size (20" x 26") polyester fill pillow that comes with two thin stereo speakers that fit inside, making it much more comfortable than using headphones. The 1/8" (3.5mm) plug fits most electronic devices, so you can use it with your iPod/MP3 player, CD player, TV or radio. The pillow is also hand and machine washable (the speakers can be removed). The Sound Oasis Sleep Therapy Pillow retails for $49.99 online at sound-oasis.com or by calling 1-866-625-3218.