Listening
Unlocking Word Meanings
Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.
- heft / hɛft / (n.) – the weight of something
Example:The artist’s sculpture had considerable heft because of its solid gold material.
- bonding / ˈbɒn dɪŋ / (n.) – the process of developing a close relationship with someone
Example:She works better with her coworkers after their bonding experience during the business trip.
- hinder / ˈhɪn dər / (v.) – to make it difficult for someone to do a task or an activity
Example:A lack of sleep can hinder someone’s ability to focus during the day.
- conclusive / kənˈklu sɪv / (adj.) – showing that something is definitely true
Example:The company is waiting for conclusive results about its new product from the product testing team before releasing it.
- splurge / splɜrdʒ / (v.) – to spend a lot of money more than usual, especially on expensive items that one usually doesn’t buy
Example:She got her bonus, so she splurged on a luxury trip out of the country.
Article
Read the text below.
As outside temperatures grow chilly, weighted blankets can be a popular choice to warm up. Some people say the added pressure helps them soothe the worries of the day and get to sleep faster.
But research on the effectiveness of weighted blankets is limited. Here’s what to know.
Weighted blankets come with extra heft in the form of glass beads, pellets, cotton or another filling. Scientists haven’t studied exactly how the blankets work, but they have a few ideas. The blankets’ firm touch may calm the brain’s fight-or-flight response, said Dr. Neal Walia, a sleep medicine expert at UCLA Health.
“The evenly distributed weight on you tells your body, ‘Hey, you’re in a calm environment,’” he said.
The extra pressure also may signal the brain to release what’s called the love hormone, also known as oxytocin. It’s produced during bonding and cuddling, and can also lower anxiety, Walia said.
How do I use a weighted blanket? For most healthy adults, experts say to choose a blanket that is about 10% of their body weight. So, a 150-pound person may opt for a 15-pound blanket.
Weighted blankets are not recommended for babies or toddlers since they can hinder movement and breathing. People with sleep apnea, sleep-related disorders or respiratory problems should check with a doctor before using a weighted blanket.
The blankets aren’t for everyone, and each person gets the best out of their blanket differently. For example, some may find them too hot to use during warmer months.
And the extra swaddling comes at a cost: quality weighted blankets can range from $50 to over $300 depending on the size, weight and material.
Can weighted blankets improve sleep? There are some hints that weighted blankets can help with anxiety, chronic pain and sleep. But the research isn’t conclusive.
Even though there’s not yet strong evidence to back up the benefits of weighted blankets, sleep experts say there’s no harm in giving them a try if you’re willing to splurge.
This article was provided by The Associated Press.
Viewpoint Discussion
Enjoy a discussion with your tutor.
Discussion A
- Weighted blankets can be expensive, ranging from $50 to over $300. Do you think items like weighted blankets are worth their high price? Why or why not? What is an expensive item you have bought that was worth it? Discuss.
- Would you splurge on an expensive weighted blanket if it makes you sleep better? Why or why not? How much are you willing to spend on an item that could improve your comfort or sleep? Discuss.
Discussion B
- Many people continue to use weighted blankets despite the lack of studies on how effective they are. In your opinion, how important is scientific evidence when deciding to try something new? Which do you trust more, suggestions by your family and friends or scientific studies? Why? Discuss.
- What product or service has no scientific study that you have tried and worked well for you (ex. herbal medicine, beauty product)? Would you recommend other people to use it because it worked for you? Why or why not? Discuss.
