Many variables impact your sleep throughout the night. Room temperature, type of mattress and pillows, layers of blankets and soothing background noise are just a few factors that go into a good night's sleep. However, if you take away all of these things that help with sleep, you are left with an important key in sleep health: your sleep position. But do you know how to change your sleep position?
When it comes to sleep positions, there are stomach sleepers, back sleepers and side sleepers and a hundred different variations in between. While some sleep positions are healthier for your body and more comfortable than others, it is important to spend time researching to determine what sleep position is best for you in order for you to get the best sleep throughout the night.
How do sleeping positions affect your body?
Most sleep-related pain, whether it is pain in your neck, back, shoulders, head or legs, can be traced back to the spine's position. It is key to keep your spine aligned in a comfortable position throughout the night. Sleeping on your stomach places a strain on both your back and spine since a majority of your weight is located in the middle of your body. This can also cause significant neck pain if you're turning your head one way or another in order to breathe. Those of you who suffer from heavy snoring should stay away from sleeping on your back and focus instead on lying on your left or right side.
How to change your sleep position?
Changing your sleeping position can be challenging at first, but well worth the effort for a healthier body and good night sleep. Most of the time people who suffer from sleep position issues have been stuck snoozing on their mattress in the same sleeping position for many years, making it a difficult habit to break. Remember practice makes perfect. Whatever change in position you are trying to make, you need to sleep that way every night until it sticks.
Oftentimes when you alter your sleeping position, you'll also need to change your bedtime accessories, such as your pillows. Those attempting to sleep on their sides should use a contour pillow that provides adequate head and neck support. If you plan to start sleeping on your back, try using a softer pillow for softer support on the back of your neck to eliminate stress on your spine and body. It is also helpful to keep another item on your chest, such as an extra pillow or water bottle, to prevent from turning over onto your stomach during the night.
Which position is the best?
Labeling a sleeping position "the best" is a near-impossible task. It is more important to find the best sleep position that fits your particular needs. Take time to talk with your doctor if you are consistently experiencing pain throughout the night, and test out a couple different sleep positions to see what is most comfortable.
Discovering the best sleeping position for you can be a difficult task, but tracking down the best sleep accessories isn't as difficult as you think. Visit your local Mattress Firm store to find comfortable beds, pillows and everything in between.
