What position of sleep are you most comfortable in? Are you aware of the health impacts you are likely to face because of your sleep posture? It may not seem critical at first, however, the position of your sleep can greatly influence your health over time.
You may be wondering why you keep waking up at night for no reason or why your back feels more fatigued when you wake up than when you went to bed. Although some of these issues can be attributed to having uncomfortable bedding, you ought to consider your sleeping position as well.
To enjoy proper sleep you need a combination of the best memory foam mattress, a peaceful sleeping environment, and a good sleeping position. Let’s take a look at how your sleeping position may influence your health.
What Impacts Can Your Sleeping Position Have On Your Health?
Sleeping On Your Belly
If you are a belly sleeper and are having trouble sleeping, the issue may be caused by the stance you sleep in. A lot of pressure is placed on your back and spine when you sleep with your belly facing down.
You are likely to be restless as you sleep because your lower back and your neck may be straining.
If you are unable to help it, you can improve this position by placing a soft pillow below your neck to initiate some comfort.
Because your middle body is the heaviest, the weight causes an overarch on the spine. Which may cause nerve issues and even pain. Additionally, sleeping on your tummy will have you turning your head in such a way that limits the circulation of blood and hinder you from breathing properly.
Sleeping On Your Back
This sleeping position is the most suitable stance as it allows the spine to remain in its normal position which helps prevent pain from the shoulders, neck, and back. However, for some people, this position can enhance snoring and sleep apnea.
To better improve this position you can place a pillow below your head to help elevate it. This will also help avoid acid reflux. Adding a pillow behind your knees can also help add comfort and reduce some strain on the lower back.
Sleeping On Your Side
Most people prefer side sleeping as it is more comfortable. It’s also the most recommended position by physicians since sleeping in this lateral position has more benefits than harm. While sleeping on your side the spine retains its elongated and neutral position which protects your back, shoulders, and neck from undue pain.
Sleeping on your side has been proven to improve several sleep disorders. People struggling with sleep apnea or loud snoring are better off sleeping in this position as it does not limit airflow since there are no restrictions on the throat. The lateral posture is most suitable for patients with back and neck issues, arthritis, and acid reflux.
Pregnant women are also safer sleeping in this position as it can improve blood flow which helps decrease the swelling of the mother’s feet and legs.
There are many advantages of sleeping on your side however the downside to this posture is you may wrinkle your face over time. Because you sleep with your face pressed against your pillow, this position may cause your facial skin to expand as well as contribute to its wrinkling.
Sleeping In the Fetal Position
This sleep position is more common in women than men and is said to be really harmful to the back. Sleeping while curled up in a fetal position is not a recommended posture. This is because of the immense amount of strain on the neck, back, and spine.
Curving yourself so tightly while you sleep can prevent you from properly breathing as your diaphragm movements will be restricted.
Get the Quality of Sleep You Need
Finding the best sleep position may not be as easy it may seem since you may be used to a certain sleep posture. You just need to embrace a change of posture which you will eventually get used to. If you still suffer from sleep deprivation, talk to your health provider to help you seek more effective solutions.
Photo by Kinga Cichewicz on Unsplash
