Your sleep position isn’t just a matter of personal preference — it can reveal important information about your health, your breathing, and even your spinal alignment. Well+Good consulted sleep experts, including Nancy Rothstein, The Sleep Ambassador, to break down what your go-to sleeping position might be telling you.
From back sleeping to stomach sleeping and everything in between, each position carries distinct advantages and potential drawbacks. Understanding these can help you make more informed choices about your sleep setup.
Key Takeaways
- Back sleeping offers optimal circulation: “The reason it’s an excellent position is that there’s no compromise of any circulation,” says Rothstein. However, it can trigger positional sleep apnea in some people, causing snoring or airway obstruction.
- Side sleeping requires the right pillow: “Sleeping position is married to your mattress quality and pillow formation,” Rothstein explains. A pillow that’s too thick or too thin can cause neck strain. The left side may cause nightmares, while the right can trigger acid reflux.
- The fetal position is popular but problematic: Over 40% of people sleep in the fetal position, but Rothstein cautions that tight curling can compromise circulation. A gentler, looser position is recommended.
- Stomach sleeping is the toughest on your body: “Your stomach is probably the worst way to sleep because it’s hard on your back,” says Rothstein. While it may reduce snoring, a humidifier can achieve the same benefit without spinal stress.
Your sleep position, mattress, and pillow all work together to determine the quality of your rest. For more guidance on creating the optimal sleep environment, explore our resources and Nancy’s expert content.
Read the Full Article on Well+Good →