Maybe you have felt what many studies have shown? When you receive a hug from a loved one, the stress hormones, cortisol, and adrenaline, are reduced and the neurotransmitters, dopamine, and serotonin, which give you a sense of well-being, are released. We don’t think about all the chemical reactions going on in our brains, but we DO feel the results.
Researchers have found that Deep Pressure Stimulation therapy (DPS), which is firm but gentle, consistent pressure on the body, may help people with autism and sensory processing disorder feel more calm and relaxed. DPS has also been described as firm but gentle hugs, holding or squeezing that relaxes the nervous system. Sometimes we do this intuitively when someone is upset, like putting a firm hand on someone’s back, shoulder, or arm.
This comforting pressure can be mimicked with weighted blankets. Continue reading “Weighted Blankets for Kids”
