Sleep might seem like a simple process to master. Unfortunately, it is not the case for most people across the world. Many people find it difficult to get enough quality sleep each night, leading to a host of health ailments like obesity, dementia, heart diseases, and diabetes and so on. This is why it is critical to understand more about different sleeping positions and how they can have an impact on the quality of sleep you are getting.
Back Sleepers
Sleeping on your back is seen to be the optimal sleeping positions as it allows your spine and neck to get ample support without being forced into different contortions. In fact, studies have shown that sleeping on your back without a pillow is the best option as it allows your neck to stay in a neutral position. However, if you prefer to use pillows while sleeping, remember not to use too many as it can make breathing difficult. Another benefit of sleeping on your back is the formation of fewer wrinkles, as your face does not get smooshed up by the pillow.
Side Sleepers
Majority of the people prefer to sleep on their side, regardless of whether they are curling up in fetal position or sleeping straight on one side. Interestingly, medical professionals encourage pregnant women to sleep on their left side as it helps improve blood circulation and benefits the mom as well as the baby. Side sleeping is also beneficial to pregnant women as it helps them avoid the pressure put on their lower back by sleeping on their back. When people sleep with their partners, they often tend to sleep on either side to accommodate curling with their partner. This can, however, backfire by restricting blood flow pressing down on your nerves.
Sleeping On Your Stomach
If you prefer to sleep on your stomach, it might be a good idea to experiment with other sleeping positions. Most sleep professionals advise against sleeping on your stomach as it places extra pressure and strain on your neck and lower back. In fact, people who sleep on their stomach tend to experience restlessness and frequent waking up during the night. In case you find it impossible to avoid sleeping on your stomach, you can try using a very soft pillow to offer your neck extra support.
Sleeping Upright
Some people tend to sleep upright by keeping their head raised. This position is often observed while sleeping on a recliner, or by wedging several pillows to help raise the upper body. This position has been deemed to be useful in reducing snoring as well as the problems caused by sleep apnea. In fact, if positioned correctly, the upright sleeping position can also help you find relief from pain. Unfortunately, this sleeping position makes it difficult to change positions during the night without waking up.
Interestingly, some people tend to adopt different sleeping positions through the night. These frequent tossers and turners may also cause their partners to wake up frequently. This can be avoided by investing in a deep layered memory foam mattress that has the ability to absorb motion completely. At the end of the day, medical professionals across the world agree that sleeping on your back is the best sleeping position. However, many people find it difficult to stick to this position once they go into a deep sleep. You can still get good quality sleep regardless of your sleeping position by investing in a quality mattress that has the ability to offer your body ample support and comfort. It should also be able to prevent new pressure points from forming so that you do not have to suffer from any joint pains or aches.