Hello, sleep lovers! Why don’t we talk about something we all do, but hardly ever stop to think about: how we sleep. You’re reading this correctly! The way you sleep can truly have a major impact on your health. Not sure what I mean? No problem, you are in the right place! Here is what I’ve learned about how the unexpected way your sleeping position affects your health can influence your back pain, digestive functioning, and more.
The Classic Position: Back Sleeping
Let’s first start with the classic position of sleeping on your back! It can be a comfortable and relaxing position when you are lying down flat on your back like a starfish. If you’re a back sleeper, you are in luck! Back sleeping can be a dream for spinal alignment, and when your head, neck and spine are in a neutral position, you are likely going to wake up with less to no pain at all.
But here is the problem! If you snore, back sleeping can turn the nightly symphony into a heavy metal concert! This position can also worsen sleep apnea. If you are not sure if you snore or not, ask your current best friend or partner how you sound at night. (Just don’t forget to ask kindly!).
Personal touch: I attempted back sleeping for a week after I heard it can be beneficial in that position. The first night it felt as if I was floating on a cloud! However, by the mid-week, my spouse jokily suggested I was training for the snoring Olympics. So, that did not last long!
Side Sleeping: A Popular Option
The most hotly debated sleeping position in our era is side sleeping! It’s like Reynolds Wrap. Everybody seems to be doing it! Side sleeping is especially good for pregnant women and anyone trying to avoid snoring. Side sleeping may also help with heartburn, which is fantastic if you like to snack before bed. Not sure about snoring, but there is more! Side sleeping on the left side is better for circulation and is preferred by those trying to have a healthier heart. Again, a two-for-one special for health benefits!
Fun fact: My friend Susan swears by side sleeping on her left side. She says she wakes up feeling lighter, and her partner’s snoring sounds much more like a distant lullaby!
Fetal Position: The Comfort Cozy
So now let’s look at the fetal position. Let’s be honest—there’s just something instinctively cozy about curling into a little ball. This position can reduce snoring and alleviate some back pain. When it’s too tightly curled up, it could lead to some stiffness in the knees or hips over time. When I’m all snuggled up like a burrito in my sheets and blankets, I try to position my legs slightly differently to alleviate stiffness and tightness. You could be surprised how you can find a balance of cozy and comfort as well as health!
Personal experience: I went through a short period of time where I seemed to be always curling up in the fetal position. I would wake up feeling so cozy, yet a little stiff. When I started adjusting my body slightly while I was in the fetal position, it made a noticeable difference.
Sleeping on your stomach: The Battleground of Comfort
Lastly, we have to confront the other option— or should I safely say, the stomach sleeper in bed! Sleeping on your stomach can seem appealing if you like that it limits snoring, the down side is that this position can be hard on your spine and neck. Stomach sleeping can lead to different issues, making this the least preferred position for experts. When in doubt of sleeping on your stomach (I get it, sometimes comfort basically prevails over everything else), try to use a pillow under your pelvis to alleviate some of the pressure on your lower back.
Truth be told: I used to be a stomach sleeper until I woke up to neck pain one day. You guys, it was definitely awkward trying to drink your morning coffee with my head turned funny.
In Conclusion
So what’s the big, life-changing takeaway from this? Regardless of your back-sleeper, side-sleeper, fetal position sleeper, or stomach sleeper, there’s so much to think about how you can affect quality of life with the unexpected way your sleeping position affects your health. In the end, it’s important to find a sleeping position that gives you quality of sleep, but isn’t hard on the body. Don’t be afraid to change it up or create a change to see what is best for you!
Of course, it’s good to remember everyone has their own unique way to sleep, and at the end of the day it’s basing the most important aspect: that you feel rested and prepared to take on a day! Goodnight, lovely readers!
Learn more articles: Sleep Health Solutions for Fitness Enthusiasts
