How Compression Supports Sleep and Sensory Regulation...and Our Thoughts on the Innovative Nesti Sensory Nest
- Grace Magennis
- Jul 15
- 3 min read
As a children’s occupational therapist, I’m often asked how to help children settle — especially after a busy school day or at bedtime. One incredibly effective and nurturing tool is compression. And I’m excited to share more about an innovative new product we’ve been trying out: the Nesti Sensory Nest — a beautifully designed, practical tool that’s supporting regulation and rest in new ways.
The Science Behind Compression
Compression provides deep pressure proprioceptive input, which activates receptors in muscles and joints that help the brain understand body position and movement. This sensory input has a calming, organising effect on the central nervous system. It helps the body move out of a “fight or flight” state and into parasympathetic regulation — where the body can rest, digest, and recover.
That’s why deep pressure is so helpful for children who are:
Overstimulated or overwhelmed
Feeling anxious or dysregulated
Masking throughout the school day
Struggling to settle for sleep
Why After-School and Bedtime are Key Moments
After-school and bedtime are two of the most emotionally vulnerable times of the day for many children. After a long day of navigating sensory input, social interactions, and expectations — especially for those who mask — children often return home running on empty. This can look like meltdowns, shutdowns, or a struggle to transition into relaxation.
Bedtime brings its own challenges. The body and brain need to slow down and let go, but for many children, this is when their system is still running on high alert. This is where compression can help reset the body and create a sense of physical and emotional safety needed for sleep.
Compression supports:
The release of serotonin, a feel-good neurotransmitter
Conversion of serotonin into melatonin, the hormone which supports sleep cycles
Lowering of cortisol, the stress hormone that can delay sleep onset
A reduction in fidgeting and restlessness, helping children feel grounded
The Nesti Sensory Nest – A Game-Changer
We’ve had the pleasure of trying out the Nesti Sensory Nest over the past few weeks, and I can confidently say it’s a standout tool. It combines the best elements of compression products in one soft, breathable, and accessible design.
What makes it unique?
Ultra-soft, cosy texture that children love
Lightweight and breathable, ideal for kids who find weighted blankets too hot or restrictive
Portable – easily rolls up to take on outings, holidays, or transitions between settings
Flexible fit – wear with feet in or out, hood up or down for comfort and control
Less restrictive than a body sock, and more versatile than a compression sheet or blanket
It's perfect for adding to a bedtime routine, offering comforting compression during wind-down time. Whether your child wears it while reading, during a quiet story, or to cuddle up before lights-out, it can provide that deep pressure input needed to ease the body into restful sleep.
In Summary
Compression is a powerful and gentle tool to support nervous system regulation, reduce anxiety, and promote better sleep. And the Nesti Sensory Nest brings those benefits into everyday life in a way that’s practical, cosy, and child-friendly.
If your child struggles with sleep, after-school meltdowns, or sensory overwhelm, I can’t recommend exploring compression enough — and the Nesti is a fantastic place to start.
AD/ You can explore the Nesti on the link below. We have a unique discount code you can use if you decide to purchase, simply enter code "GRACE10" at checkout!