We spend a third of our lives sleeping and quality sleeping is beneficial to our well-being. 95% of us sleep in the same position every single night and the sleeping position can impact our health both positively and negatively. It is thus very important to adopt the correct and best sleeping position for better health.
Sleeping on the back
Sleeping on the back is described as lying flat on the back, placing the head on a pillow for support and the body facing the ceiling in an upwards position. Sleeping on the back is a good position as it keeps the spine and head aligned together in a straight line. It is especially ideal for patients suffering from joint pain as it distributes the body’s weight evenly. Try keeping the toes pointing upwards but often, the toes will be pointing sideways. Try placing a pillow beneath the knees for extra support. Always use a neck support pillow to provide additional support for the cervical spine.
Sleeping on the side
Sleeping on the side is described as lying on the sides with both legs straightened and the head on a pillow and the hands in front of the body. Sleeping on the side is another good sleeping position as the spine and head are aligned. Sleeping on the sides also help to reduce snoring. Do make sure that you do not bend your back too much as it will place a lot of strain on the neck and back, causing pain. One negative side to sleeping on the side is that it may cause wrinkles due to the face constantly pressing against the pillow.
Fetal position
Fetal position is described as drawing both legs towards the chest and tucking them in. It helps to repair wear and tear in the back and reduce snoring. However, it is straining for both the neck and back, causing pain when you wake up in the morning. The fetal position also hinders diaphragmatic breathing. Prolonged period of sleeping in this position may cause your breasts to sag.
Side by side
Couples love to sleep side by side with each other, lying in each other’s arm. However, sleeping side by side in a constraint space will cause the body to go into a position which will cause strain to the muscles and joints. Prolonged period of sleeping side by side will cause back and shoulder pain and even possible misalignment of the neck.
Your favourite sleeping position could possibly cause you neck and back pain, wrinkles and even breathing problems. Decide on which are the best positions for you to sleep in and avoid those that are harmful to your health.
