After a hectic day, a good night’s sleep is what you need. Unfortunately, there are many people who are deprived of this. There can be innumerable reasons behind it, but there is one in particular that many tend to overlook, and that is the sleeping position. A wrong sleeping position can lead to many health issues like sleep apnea, heartburn, headaches, back pains, etc.
How to figure out the right sleeping position?
Some people are comfortable sleeping on their backs, while others are good at sleeping on sides or on their stomachs. The question is, can you switch over to a different position if that’s what your health requires?
- Unless recommended by your doctor, try to stick to your natural inclinations because your body is comfortable that way. You can breathe properly only if you are sleeping the way your body prefers to!
- Unnecessary changes in sleeping postures will not only make you sleep deprived but will also make you feel irritated for the rest of the day.
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Pros and Cons of different sleeping positions
On your back and arms at the side
- This position works absolutely well with people with spinal and neck problems.
- People sleeping on their backs tend to snore heavily and they tend to develop sleep apnea.
On your back and arms resting near your head (Starfish position)
- This position is good for people suffering from back problems.
- Sleeping like this will prevent skin breakouts and facial wrinkles.
- Although, you may have to deal with problems like snoring, acid reflux, pain, and discomfort in shoulders.
On your stomach (face down)
- This improves digestion.
- But causes strain in your neck.
- The possibility of back pain, as your spine has no support.
Fetal Position (Curled up sleeping with knees drawn to your chest)
- It is a very comfortable position.
- But strains your neck and back.
- It may also restrict deep breathing.
On the side with arms straight at sides
- This position reduces the risk of sleep apnea.
- It also reduces neck and back pains, if any.
- But you may have to deal with sagging breasts and facial wrinkles due to gravity.
On your side with arms spread out
- Again, no risk of sleep apnea and no back and neck pains.
There may be some discomfort in the arms and shoulders due to slow blood flow.
Sleeping on the sides
Right side- This position worsens heartburn.
Left side- This position strains important organs like the stomach, lungs, and liver. But, it does minimize acid reflux.
Pregnant women are usually advised to sleep on their left sides as it improves blood circulation in the fetus.
An important tip on sleeping position
Being health conscious is great, but you should never try to bring drastic changes to your lifestyle without expert advice. Each sleeping pattern has its own advantages and disadvantages, but which one is perfect is something that only your body can tell!
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