Depending on who you ask, you’ll get a lot of different opinions on the different ways you can sleep. Some will swear by side sleeping. Others are back sleeping advocates.
What’s the best sleeping position for you?
The answer is that it really depends. Many people can sleep in any position without troubles. Unfortunately for others, the wrong position can aggravate sleep apnea, cause cramps, even make heartburn or indigestion worse.
If you wake up with a headache or stiff neck, that could also be the result of sleeping in the wrong position for you.
Finding Your Best Sleep Position
Take a look at each of the possible sleeping positions. If you aren’t getting the rest that you need, you may not have chosen the healthiest sleeping position. It could be time to try something new.
Fetal Position Sleep
This is the most popular position for sleeping. It keeps your spine in alignment, and many people find that it reduces snoring. There are some slight variations this position.
For example, the log position is when you lie on your side with your legs straight. In another variation, your bottom leg is straight while your other is bent at the knee and hip.
Sleeping on the right side is often the best sleeping position for men and women who are not pregnant. It’s comfortable, and can aid digestion.
Sleeping on the left side is the best side to sleep on for pregnant women as it reduces pressure on the fetus and improves circulation.
What Type of Snorer Are You?
There are 3 types of snorers and each need their own treatment. Take our 40 second test to see what type you are.
If you do sleep on your side, try stretching out just a bit. If you curl up in a ball, that can restrict your breathing.
Back Sleeping
This is actually the least common sleep position. Some people do find it quite comfortable though. Since there’s no danger of getting an arm or leg tucked underneath your body, you won’t wake up with numb or tingly hands or feet.
If you fall asleep reading or on your phone, you may be a back sleeper.
If you are well-rested and comfortable, there’s nothing wrong with sleeping like this. Just know that there are a few precautions. If you have sleep apnea, this could make that worse. The same goes for snoring or acid reflux.
To learn how to sleep on your back comfortably, start with the right pillows. If your head is propped up enough, you can avoid digestive issues, and stave off snoring.
Sleeping on Your Stomach
Is sleeping on your stomach bad? Unfortunately, the answer is yes. When you sleep in this position, your spine and hips go completely out of alignment.
The result, of course, is morning aches and pains. This is another position that expecting mothers should avoid as well. It constricts babies movements. That’s not a good thing.
If you simply cannot sleep in another position, there are a few things you can try. First, get rid of your pillow. That can help keep things better aligned. Then, do some stretches in the morning to get rid of pain and stiffness from the night before.
Finding Your Proper Sleeping Position
The best test is how you feel. If you wake up feeling well-rested, nobody mentions that you’re snoring, and you aren’t stiff or sore, then your sleep position is likely fine. If not, give something else a try. It may take some time to adjust, but it will be worthwhile.
