We all know how important it is to get enough sleep.
We know that to function well each and every day our body and mind needs those valuable hours to rest and repair. It really is one of the most important elements to maintain your wellbeing.
While you may be getting enough sleep, have you ever considered how your sleeping position may affect the quality of your sleep?
Here’s what your sleeping position can reveal:
Sleeping on your BACK
If you wonder why your weekly yoga class always ends with savasana lying on your back, this is widely considered to be the best way for your body to relax. All the body’s channels are freely flowing and circulation is not compromised.
For some people however, this just doesn’t work. For those people the discomfort could be from the back or often the throat, with a condition of Positional Sleep Apnea resulting. Extra soft tissue or a large tongue can weigh down into the throat blocking the airway. Be guided by comfort and if this position isn’t working, then turn to something that feels right for your body.
SIDE Sleeping
If you’re a side-sleeper then investment in the right pillow is crucial. In Ayurvedic medicine it is believed that each side of the body will activate a specific hemisphere of the brain and sleeping on the left side of the body is essential for health and longevity.
In other research the right side has been linked to nightmares and the left to nightmares. Regardless of which school of thought you believe, it is important that you have the right pillow. Too firm or too soft can result in neck stiffness, soreness and headaches.
Adopting the FOETAL POSITION
On average, around 40% of people will regularly sleep in the foetal position. While popular, it is recommended that you adopt a relaxed foetal position to ensure that the internal organs can function properly and circulation is not compromised. Protect the neck with a good pillow to maintain good alignment.
STOMACH Sleepers
While tummy-time is great for babies it’s not ideal for adults. This sleeping position places considerable strain on the back and if sleeping after a large meal, can be problematic for good digestion. The one upside though, it can reduce snoring. It is suggested that stomach sleeping be minimised. Try first to transition to a half-side position to limit the impact on the back.
Sweet dreams x