The Effects of Different Sleeping Positions

Most people are aware that getting enough sleep is important, but few people realise your sleeping position can also have a profound effect on your sleep quality and overall health. To get the most from your sleep, pay attention to your favoured sleeping positions and their effects on your body.

Of course, other factors influence the quality of your sleep and it’s worth making changes and investing in items that facilitate great sleep. For example, an excellent quality mattress that is compatible with your body and sleeping preferences can make a huge difference to your sleep. Check out Sleepy’s website and other credible sites for more information about mattresses and other items that enable high-quality sleep.

1. Do you lay on your back with your arms at your sides?

Generally, sleeping on your back with your arms beside your body is recognised as the best position for the health of your spine. Also, this position is good for your neck, provided that you do not prop your head up with too many pillows. The disadvantage is that snoring and sleep apnoea tend to be more of an issue for back sleepers than those who prefer other positions.

2. Do you lay on your back with your arms up?

Also known as the ‘starfish’, this position is good for your back, but snoring, sleep apnoea and acid reflux can be problematic issues for those who sleep in this position. Also, pain can be experienced because of the pressure put on the nerves in the shoulders when the arms are up.

3. Are you a tummy sleeper?

When you sleep face down, there is a good chance your neck is under strain because your head and face are tilted to one side or the other. Back pain can also be experienced through sleeping face down because the curve of your spine is unsupported. Interestingly though, sleeping on your tummy may have digestive benefits.

4. Do you like to curl up in a ball?

Although it may be comfortable and comforting to tuck up tight into the foetal position, this sleeping position can compromise your neck and back. Also, when you are tightly curled up in a ball, your ability to breathe deeply can be limited.

Despite these disadvantages, sleeping in the foetal position can bring much needed and desired rest if you are pregnant or if snoring is an issue for you.

5. Do you prefer to sleep on your right side?

Sleeping on different sides of your body can result in numerous sleep effects. If you prefer the right side, be aware that this position can make the problem of heartburn even worse, but sleeping on the left side can put incredible pressure on organs, including the stomach, lungs and liver. For pregnant women, however, sleeping on the left-hand side is commonly advised by doctors as this sleeping position can help with blood circulation to the baby.

Focusing on your sleeping position may provide a way to address certain issues and bring about quality rest and better health. Try to evaluate which way you most commonly sleep to get the most out of your bedtime.