You know the position you like to fall asleep in every night, but do you know which ones might set you up for a better tomorrow?
That may be a little more difficult to know, and depending on who you are and what health conditions you might have, some positions could be a lot better for you than others.
Advertisement
If you want to deal with aches, pains, and more, sleeping position could play a key role in helping you get the most from your nightly slumber.
There are optimal sleeping positions for different needs. Whether you’re prone to snoring, dealing with back, neck, or shoulder pain, or have other issues, everybody can benefit from sleeping in the ideal position.
Ultimately, the best sleeping positions are the ones where you’re most comfortable. That said, there may be better positions for people with specific issues. Here are the pros and cons of sleeping on your back, side, and stomach.
Back
Advantages:
• Reduces aches and pains in the lower back and neck
• Supports spine so muscles can relax and recover
• Helps relieve congestion, especially when the torso is propped up
Disadvantages:
• Increases risk of airway collapse for those who snore or have sleep apnea
• Raises pressure levels for certain types of back pain
• Can boost episodes of acid reflux
• Can increase gravity pressure which makes it more difficult to breathe, making it unsuitable for heavier or older people
Stomach
Advantages:
• Opens airways to help reduce snoring
Disadvantages:
• Puts increased pressure on ribs to make breathing less efficient
• Provides the least amount of back and neck support
Side
Advantages:
• Advances spinal alignment, making it ideal for people with back pain (especially when using a support pillow placed between the knees)
• Reduces the likelihood of snoring and heartburn, so it can be beneficial for people with sleep apnea and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Can be most comfortable, make breathing easier, and limits pressure on the spine
• Left-side sleeping may be ideal for people with GERD or acid reflux
Disadvantages:
• Increased shoulder pressure.
About eight years ago, Mat Lecompte had an epiphany. He’d been ignoring his health and suddenly realized he needed to do something about it. Since then, through hard work, determination and plenty of education, he has transformed his life. He’s changed his body composition by learning the ins and outs of nutrition, exercise, and fitness and wants to share his knowledge with you. Starting as a journalist over 10 years ago, Mat has not only honed his belief system and approach with practical experience, but he has also worked closely with nutritionists, dieticians, athletes, and fitness professionals. He embraces natural healing methods and believes that diet, exercise and willpower are the foundation of a healthy, happy, and drug-free existence.
