While some people can barely stand a thin sheet on hot nights, others can't sleep without being fully covered, even when temperatures are scorching. These sleeping habits are not just about preference or physical sensation, but also psychological and scientific factors.
According to experts, the feeling of being covered activates the parasympathetic nervous system, a part of our system that helps the body relax and lower its level of alarm. This is why many people feel safer and calmer when they are covered, even if it is hot, writes A2 CNN.
A 2011 study published by the Department of Anesthesiology at the University of California found that the pressure exerted by blankets helps relieve chronic pain and improve sleep quality. Blanket use has even been linked to improvements in mental health in adults suffering from anxiety and depression.
Researchers from Flinders University and the University of Adelaide in Australia have also shown that blankets can provide a sense of calm and physical relaxation. However, there is not enough scientific evidence that their use is beneficial for everyone, especially for children with disorders such as ADHD or autism spectrum disorders. For some, blankets provide comfort; for others, they can increase anxiety.
So, even on the hottest summer days, the desire to cover up is not just a habit, it is the body's natural reaction to feel protected and comfortable. (A2 Televizion)