This past week I have been hyper aware of how I was sleeping! It got me thinking about what positions I sleep in and how they relate to our health! Then I started asking other people what their favorite positions to sleep are and it is so interesting!! Most people said they prefer to sleep on their side with some saying they preferred the right side over the left. I personally LOVE sleeping on my stomach more than any other position.
Each position scientifically has it’s pros and cons. And there is even some thought that the way you sleep has an affect on our personality! Weird right??
Stomach sleeping:
I am a part of the 7% of the population that prefers sleeping on their tum-tums. When you sleep on your stomach you are more likely to toss and turn at night. There is a large strain on your neck and lower back. Your spine is curved in a similar way as a backbend so it can be difficult to adjust your spines alignment. In terms of personality, research says that people who sleep on their stomachs are more likely to speak their mind and be outgoing however they may not be too open to criticism. I will say i somewhat agree with the speaking their mind personality and slightly agree with the inability to take criticism.
Back sleeping:
This is an odd concept to me…how is it comfortable to sleep like a zombie?? Hey but to each their own! About 13% of the population sleeps on their back! Sleeping on your back can cause lower back pain, can increase snoring, and make sleep apnea worse. Personality wise, back sleepers are more quiet, good listeners, and expect alot from themselves and others. My mother is a back sleeper and a side sleeper but her personality traits I think lean towards back sleeping because she is an amazing listener and has high expectations of herself and others. I got that trait from her. To prevent snoring, put a few more pillows under your head at night. By doing so, you open your airways more and can breathe better. To help with back pain, just put a pillow under your legs to prop your back up and realign it.
Side sleeping:
I’d say the most common answer I got when asking people is that they prefer side sleeping. Research says 68% of people sleep on their side! More often people sleep with their knees bent with some people even putting a pillow between their knees for more comfort. Side sleepers are more likely to have a warm inviting personality but have a protectiveness about them. My best friends told me they were side sleepers and based on the personality traits I think it fits perfectly! They are both such sweet and kind people that others feel attracted to! Spooning can be considered side sleeping and can help release oxytocin (go check out my Science Sunday on that) and can help you fall asleep faster. Side sleeping is the best position to lower your chance of snoring and help your back pain!
There are studies that show sleeping on your right side can increase acid reflux symptoms because it helps to relax the sphincter muscle at the end of the esophagus allowing stomach acid to move into the esophagus. It’s better to sleep on your left side because that is where your stomach is located and can prevent any acid from moving in the wrong direction.
I always want to say I am not a doctor or expert but I will certainly try to sleep on my back more to promote better airway function. We also do not use the best of pillows so once my #NoSpendJanuary is over I want to treat Michael and I to a nice set of firm, cooling pillows!
Have an awesome week ahead and if you are getting snow, stay safe!
Xoxo, Z
Also thanks www.webmd.com for the cool article!
