Why A Weighted Eye Mask Is The Ultimate Self Care Tool

When it comes to creating the perfect self care routine, small tools can make a big difference. One such game changer is the weighted eye mask. Combining gentle pressure therapy with darkness, a weighted sleep mask can relax, calm stress and help with sleep. Whether you’re winding down after a busy day or need relief from headaches and tension, this simple tool could be the key to taking your self care to the next level.

What Is A Weighted Eye Mask?

A weighted eye mask is exactly what it sounds like: a soft, often plush eye mask filled with tiny weighted materials like flaxseeds, lavender or other fine fillings. Unlike a traditional sleep mask, the added weight provides gentle, even pressure across the eyes and forehead area, like a comforting hug or a light massage. They’re designed to block out all light, so they can work their magic.

How Does It Work?

The secret of a weighted eye mask is in a concept called Deep Touch Pressure (DTP) therapy. DTP uses firm but gentle pressure to activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for your body’s rest and digest response. This lowers heart rate, reduces cortisol (the stress hormone) and encourages serotonin and melatonin (the happiness and sleep chemicals) production. By resting a weighted sleep mask over your eyes, you’re giving yourself a mini therapy session every time you use it. 

What Are The Benefits Of Using One?

Relaxation and Better Sleep

One of the main reasons people use a weighted eye mask is its amazing ability to relax and improve sleep. The gentle pressure combined with total darkness tells your body it’s time to wind down. This environment helps you fall asleep and stay asleep longer, making it a great natural remedy for anyone who struggles with restlessness or insomnia.

For an even more luxurious sleep experience, pair it with a 100% Mulberry Silk Pillowcase from Rest and Digest. The silk’s cooling properties will improve sleep quality and leave you feeling fresh in the morning. 

Reduces Stress and Anxiety

The pressure of a weighted sleep mask works in the same way as a weighted blanket. It can help reduce stress and anxiety by making your body relax and come out of the fight-or-flight state. In just a few minutes of wearing it, you may notice your mind slowing down, your breathing deepening and your muscles unclenching and you’ll find calm even on the busiest of days. 

For even better results, use the Magnesium Bath Salts from The Base Collective to relax your muscles before bed.

Alleviates Headaches and Migraines

Many people who suffer from headaches and migraines find relief by using a weighted eye mask. This even pressure can ease muscle tension around the forehead and eyes, reduce light sensitivity and promote circulation, all of which are important for reducing headache symptoms. Some masks can even be chilled in the fridge for a cold compress effect that enhances their headache-soothing properties.

Weighted Eye Masks Soothe Tired and Puffy Eyes

Long hours of screen time or lack of sleep can leave your eyes feeling strained and looking puffy. A weighted sleep mask can be a welcome relief by applying gentle pressure that improves blood flow and reduces puffiness. For an extra refreshing experience, you can chill your mask before use and it will help to revitalize and refresh tired eyes. You can also use an eye pillow, which is a cushion filled with flaxseeds that provides comfort and relief.

See our guide to using an eye pillow here.

Who Can Use An Eye Mask?

Insomniacs or People Who Have Trouble Sleeping

If falling asleep or staying asleep is a nightly struggle, a weighted eye mask could be a game-changer. It helps to relax and create the perfect environment to help you sleep better and trains your brain to recognize the bedtime cues and settle down. 

Adding products like Bach Original Flower Remedies Rescue Sleep Drops into your routine can help you relax and feel more in control.

People with Chronic Stress or Anxiety

If you have chronic stress or anxiety, a weighted sleep mask can be an important tool for finding moments of peace. Use it during meditation, deep breathing exercises or simply during a break during the day to make a big difference in your emotional wellbeing.

To enhance this effect, you might want to use The Base Collective Beauty Sleep Spray. Mist your pillow or linens before bed to create a calming atmosphere that promotes relaxation.

People with Frequent Headaches or Migraines

Chronic headaches and migraines can ruin your day and drain your energy. Adding a weighted eye mask to your self care routine can provide targeted relief and may reduce the frequency and intensity of headaches over time. 

For an extra layer of relief, try our Rest and Digest Restore Eye Pillow. This larger-than-usual eye pillow filled with flaxseeds and lavender can be placed over your eyes, either chilled in the freezer or lightly warmed, giving you versatile targeted relief for headache-prone areas. 

Anyone Looking To Practice Self Care

Even if you don’t have sleep issues, stress or headaches, a weighted sleep mask is an easy and fun way to practice daily self care. Taking 10-20 minutes a day to disconnect, breathe deeply and rest your eyes can have long-term benefits for your mental and physical health. Combined with nighttime rituals like sipping Love Tea Organic Sleep Tea, you can create a bedtime routine that encourages deep, uninterrupted sleep. These self care items from Rest and Digest make wonderful gift ideas for loved ones to help them with their own self care.

How To Use Weighted Masks for Maximum Benefits?

Get Comfortable

When using your weighted eye mask, make sure you’re lying down or reclining in a comfortable position. This way, the mask can sit evenly across your eyes and forehead without slipping or feeling uncomfortable. Whether you’re on the couch, in bed or in a chair, comfort is key to getting the most out of it.

Use with Other Relaxation Techniques

Using your weighted sleep mask with other relaxation techniques will amplify the effects. Try deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, meditation or soothing music to create a full sensory experience that will melt you into deep relaxation and stress relief.

Make It a Daily Habit

Consistency is key with self care. Set aside time each day - even if it’s just a few minutes - to use your weighted sleep mask. Whether it’s part of your bedtime routine or a midday pause to recharge, regular use will build stronger relaxation habits over time.

What To Look for When Choosing A Mask?

Weight and Distribution

When choosing a weighted eye mask, look for the weight and distribution of the beads. The mask should provide even pressure across the eyes without being too heavy or too light. Look for a mask with adjustable weight options to ensure a comfortable fit.

Material and Comfort

Comfort is key when choosing a weighted sleep mask. Look for a mask made from soft, breathable materials like cotton or silk. The material should feel gentle on the skin and not cause irritation or discomfort.

Adjustable Straps and Size

Adjustable straps ensure the mask fits securely and comfortably on your head. Look for a mask with flexible sizing to fit different head shapes and sizes.

Durability and Cleaning

Since you’ll be using your eye mask regularly, choose one that’s durable and easy to clean. Look for masks with removable covers or machine washable ones for added convenience.

A weighted eye mask is not just an indulgence, it’s a tool that’s versatile and works for relaxation. Whether you want to boost your self care, manage anxiety or just have a better night’s sleep, a weighted mask is a must-have. So why not add this self care staple to your daily routine and see for yourself?