The Pillowfort Weighted Sensory Animal Cheetah Plush Pillow is a soft, weighted stuffed animal designed to provide comfort and sensory support for children. Part of Target's Pillowfort Weighted Plush Collection, it offers a variety of stuffed animals intended to be both cuddly companions and **PLEASE NOTE** Note: While weighted pillows are generally safe, it's essential to ensure they are not too heavy for the user, especially for children or individuals with certain medical conditions. Always follow the manufacturer's guidelines. Weighted pillows, like weighted blankets, are designed to provide gentle, even pressure across the body. This concept, known as deep pressure stimulation (DPS), has various benefits, including: Promotes Relaxation and Calming Effects The weight provides a soothing pressure that can help reduce anxiety and promote a sense of calm, making it ideal for relaxation or winding down before bed. Improves Sleep Quality Weighted pillows may help stimulate serotonin production, which is converted to melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep. This can lead to falling asleep faster and staying asleep longer. Reduces Stress and Anxiety The pressure from a weighted pillow can lower cortisol levels, the stress hormone, helping the body relax and reducing feelings of overwhelm. Provides Sensory Input For individuals with sensory processing disorders, ADHD, or autism, weighted pillows can offer therapeutic benefits by grounding and centering them. Eases Muscle Tension The added weight can help relax tight muscles and promote a more restful state, making it beneficial for physical relaxation. Supports Focus and Attention Some people find that using a weighted pillow while working or studying improves their focus and reduces fidgeting. Provides Comfort Weighted pillows can mimic the feeling of being hugged, offering emotional comfort, especially for those who feel lonely or need additional emotional support.