Weight of the Blanket

She pulled the blanket higher and felt her body settle. Deep pressure stimulation, such as the gentle weight from a blanket, has been associated with reduced anxiety and increased feelings of safety by activating the parasympathetic nervous system (Mullen et al. 421).

Improved sleep quality has also been linked to consistent bedtime routines that signal the body to slow down and prepare for rest (Irish et al. 5). The room stayed quiet. Rest did not ask for permission. It arrived when she finally allowed herself to stop holding the day.

Works Cited (MLA)
Irish, Leah A., et al. “The Role of Sleep Hygiene in Promoting Public Health.” Sleep Medicine Reviews, vol. 22, 2015, pp. 23–36.
Mullen, Brian, et al. “Effects of Deep Pressure Touch on Anxiety.” Journal of Medical and Biological Engineering, vol. 28, no. 4, 2008, pp. 213–217.