Deep Pressure: A Soothing Touch for Relaxation

Deep Pressure & Relaxation:

Deep pressure proves to be ideally suited for calming excitable individuals. By activating the proprioceptors and releasing dopamine and serotonin, a deep sense of relaxation is created. The effect of deep pressure goes beyond superficial touch.

The Discovery of Temple Grandin:

Temple Grandin, known for her work with autism and animal welfare, personally discovered the power of deep pressure to reduce hypersensitivity and anxiety. Her discovery led to the development of the "hug machine," which allowed her to regulate the amount of pressure herself. This machine helped her gradually get used to the pressure and reduced her hypersensitivity.

Reducing Tactile Sensitivity:

Deep pressure can reduce (tactile) sensitivity through gradual exposure to touch and pressure perceived as safe and pleasant. This gradual stimulation causes the nervous system to reduce sensitivity and touches are again experienced as pleasant.

Tailoring for Comfort: T

er while some individuals prefer pressure administered by others, others, like Temple Grandin, want to determine the amount and intensity of pressure themselves. This shows that personalization is an essential factor when using deep pressure for relaxation.

Deep Pressure for Relaxation:

In summary, deep pressure is especially effective during overstimulation to help both children and adults relax. A similar calming strategy is chewing, such as on pencils or sleeves. Such chewing helps reduce tension.

Products for Deep Pressure:

There are several products available that can provide deep pressure. For bedtime relaxation, our weighted soft toys are an option, as are our versatile weighted blankets.