Which position do you sleep in?
On your side, your stomach or your back?
What position should you sleep in?
If you have certain ailments or problems, the position that you sleep in can help to relieve these, or make them worse.
Here are some helpful hints to help you to get a better nights sleep …
Sleeping on your side in the full fetal position
Sleeping on your side is quite common and visually resembles the position of the embryo in the womb.
The knees are drawn up towards the chest, the head is bent forward and the arms are often wrapped around a pillow.
Sleeping on your side is often recommended for pregnant women and snorers.
However, people with back and neck problems should find a position that puts less strain on their back, like sleeping on your back.
Sleeping on your side in the semi fetal position
Many people believe that sleeping on your side in the semi-fetal position is the best sleeping position.
In surveys, it has been found that about 60% of people sleep in this position, with their body and legs only bent slightly (in contrast to the full-fetal position described above).
Did you know that it also makes a difference if you sleep on the left or right side?
If you have problems with heartburn, you really shouldn’t sleep on the right side, this makes your reflux worse.
Whereas sleep on your left side is not only easier on your stomach, but your heart as well.
Sleeping on your Stomach
Some people find it comfortable to sleep with their face turned to the side and arms extended above their heads, or even wrapped around their pillow.
The fact is that there aren’t many people who sleep on their stomach.
This sleeping position also has its plus and minus points.
It is better for digestion, but it does not support the natural curve of the spine.
Your spine carries your nerves from your brain to all of your body, so putting strain on your spine can result in pain almost anywhere in your body.
Sleeping on your stomach can also result in neck pain over time. This is because you have to sleep with your head to the side, otherwise you are breathing into your pillow.
Sleeping on your back
Sometimes known as the ‘Royal’ or ‘Soldier’ position, this is when you lie fully on your back, facing towards the ceiling with your arms pinned to your side.
According to experts this is the healthiest position for your spine and neck (If you don’t use too many pillows), but of course there has to be a downside.
The downside is that this is the position that causes most people to snore.
An interesting fact for you though, this is the position most favoured by children, workaholics and entrepreneurs.
What does your sleeping position say about you?
It doesn’t really matter what position you sleep in, the most important thing is that you are comfortable and you can get some quality rest.
