Sleep is an important part of our lives, which is why specialists recommend we cultivate good slumber behaviors even from a fragile age. Of course, as parents, we are the ones responsible for our children’s well-being and the healthy habits that will later help them make decisions in life.
So, you allow Junior to stay awake half of the night, playing video games, first have a look at the impact constant lack of sleep has on our health (adult or young teens). As you will learn, the brain is the most affected and we tend to lose sharpness of mind, focus, and memory. But there are other side effects such as lower back pain and even a halt in development in young children.
The good news is that all these can be avoided with a sleep schedule, good sleep quality, and attention to each person’s individual needs. For this, today we’ll talk about the three basic positions and how to make sure they serve your needs the best.
Sleeping on the back
Specialists consider this the healthiest sleeping position because all the internal organs rest in a natural setting. Furthermore, the spine is well-protected from any deformations and, if you use the right pillow, the neck will also be kept in good alignment.
This position is recommended when you suffer from muscular pain or you sense discomfort in the lower back area. It’s also a position that doesn’t cause heartburn since the head is elevated and acid doesn’t travel upwards.
However, you must know how to choose a mattress for those who sleep on back because the wrong bed can completely ruin the benefits of this position. According to back sleepers, the ideas surface is mid-firm to firm, supports the back, and allows for a bit of cushioning.
Sleeping on the side
According to the Top Mattress, most people (41%) favor their side in slumber. While side sleeping has a series of variations, the fetal position is the most popular, so we’ll discuss the pros and cons from this point of view.
When lying on the side, with the right support from a mattress for side sleepers, the spine, hips, and neck are elongated and harmoniously aligned. This reduces back pain, removes pressure points from the hips and shoulders, and keeps acid reflux from bothering you while sleeping.
It’s also the most recommended position for snorers since it keeps the airways open. If you sleep on the back or on the stomach, the neck can become constricted during the night, which leads to snoring and even sleep apnea.
As it turns out, it matters on which side you sleep as well. The left side is the most recommended for pregnant women because it provides the fetus with unrestricted blood flow. However, if you’re not pregnant or suffering from heartburn, you should sleep on the right as it doesn’t affect your major internal organs (liver, lungs, or stomach).
Finally, you can use different types of pillows to improve this sleeping position. For instance, if you suffer from lower back pain, a small pillow in between the knees will keep the spine in perfect alignment. On the other side, a hug pillow will help maintain the position, while if you want to switch sides, a pillow at the back will stop you from changing sides after you fall asleep.
Sleeping on the stomach
While most specialists agree that sleeping on the stomach is the worst sleeping position, 7% of the world population still favors it over any of the others. The rage against this position is set by the fact that the spine remains in a constantly tensed setting, putting pressure on the lower back.
Not to mention, all your internal organs are being squished by the weight of your body, the stomach is being pressed into the mattress, and your face will be deeply buried in a pillow. Still, with the right surface for stomach sleepers, there is a good chance to get a good night’s sleep form this position too.
In conclusion
The secret to a good slumber stands in understanding your own sleep habits, owning a mattress that provides comfort for your specific needs, and respecting the natural circadian rhythm of our planet. If you have all these, you’ll end up being a healthier, shinier human being, capable of creating wonderful things in life.
