More often than not, some of our favorite buys are small, how-didn’t-I-know-about-this products that solve an everyday problem. That’s what we’re highlighting in our Little Lifesavers series: cheap, simple purchases that you’ll use on the daily. Hit “Add to Cart” and thank us later!
The Problem: Sleep hasn’t come as easily as it did during pre-pandemic times, and I’m constantly looking for products that can make a difference in my nightly routine.
The Solution: Nodpod, a weighted sleep mask designed to reduce anxiety – similar to a weighted blanket.
It’s become a bit of a regular occurrence for me to research products to help me sleep. I never used to have trouble, but considering the pandemic, politics, climate change, vaccines, work, a woman’s biological clock, Philly sports, etc. are all things I feel like I worry about now on a regular basis, there are simply more things on my mind when I’m trying to go to sleep.
During one of my research stints, I came across The Nodpod. It was described as a weighted blanket for your eyes, and that really appealed to me. I’m someone who always runs hot, no matter what the weather is outside, so weighted blankets were never something I could use. (Think instant sweating, even in the winter.) But something that just covered my eyes? Now, that I could get behind.
The idea for Nodpod started when the founder, Melissa Bamberg, discovered Deep Touch Pressure, which is described as “the science of applying gentle pressure to your body to relieve stress and anxiety while promoting deep, restful sleep.” It became her mission to create a sleep mask that could not only block out light, but also help our bodies relax.
The NodPod is about 18 inches long, with four weighted pods that match up with each eye and temple. The pods are filled with scent-free microbeads, while the outside material is made for dual-comfort — one side features a cooling jersey cotton, while the other features a soft microfiber. It can be worn flat across your face if you’re a back sleeper, but it also has a button-like hole that allows you to loop the Nodpod around your head and secure it — ideal for side sleepers. You can also pop the whole product in the freezer for a more cooling effect.
When I gave it a try the first time, it simply felt like soft pressure covering my eyes. It felt comforting, but it didn't limit my eye movement. The biggest difference I noticed in my sleep is that it helped me fall asleep faster. I was able to focus on the pressure on my eyes, rather than the endless stream of thoughts going through my head.
I’m a side sleeper myself, and I felt like The Nodpod stayed mostly in place throughout the night. However, depending on how my face was positioned with The Nodpod on my pillow, I did wake up with a little eye irritation. I’d recommend it more for those who are back sleepers, but side sleepers might go through an adjustment period to find the right position that works best.
I don’t wear it every night, but if I’ve had a particularly stressful day, I find myself reaching for The Nodpod when I go to bed, looking forward to the calming pressure it provides. The product page also notes that it can help ease headaches and migraines, too.
