What sleeping on your stomach says about you?
Have you ever given thought to the way you sleep and what it reveals about your personality? It turns out there is a lot to be said about your go-to sleeping position and how it can indicate your overall personality, as well as providing both pros and cons. Specifically, stomach sleeping – also known as “prone sleeping” – has special implications in regards to understanding who you are. Let’s take a look at what sleeping on your stomach says about you.
The Pros and Cons of Stomach Sleeping
The pro to stomach sleeping is that it can be the most comfortable position for some people. If a mattress and pillow are properly fitted for comfort and support, the stomach-sleeper can revel in being hugged and supported just the right amount during the night. Additionally, stomach-sleepers may experience fewer neck and back pains due to increased spinal alignment.
However, there are a few cons when it comes to sleeping on your stomach. This position can increase snoring due to heavy compression on the chest and limited airflow. Restricted breathing can also give rise to sleep apnea in some individuals, which is why it’s important to pay attention to the ways in which you are sleeping. Additionally, this position can create pain in both the neck and lower back due to extra pressure and an inability for the spine to remain in its natural alignment.
What Your Sleeping Position Reveals About Your Personality
Those who tend to sleep on their stomach may be the outgoing, bubbly type – the life of the party. People with this sleeping habit may be described as adventurous, go-getters and open to trying new things. This type of person is seen as extroverted and may often walk into a room with confidence and bravado.
On the other hand, those who prefer stomach sleeping may also be trying to hide or feel uncomfortable in certain social situations. People with this habit might be timid or feel confined in their relationships with others. It could be due to discomfort or fear, but either way they choose the stomach sleeping position as a way of having control. At the same time they may be seeking comfort.
Benefits of Stomach Sleeping
Stomach sleeping can reduce snoring since heavy compression on the chest and neck is eliminated, allowing for better airflow. It can be great for digestion since lying flat on your stomach helps to alleviate any stress that could lead to GERD symptoms. Being able to take the weight off your chest can lead to much deeper sleeps since the added tension is taken away.
Stomach sleepers may also have lower anxiety levels than those who choose other sleeping positions. As their bodies are supported effortlessly by the mattress, they can relax and sleep more soundly, making it easier to reduce stress levels during the night.
Potential Health Risks Associated with Stomach Sleeping
Most research suggests that while stomach sleeping has its benefits, there are potential risks associated with it as well. Sleeping in this position can cause misalignment of the spine and neck, leading to back pain and tension headaches. Stomach sleeping can also cause a great deal of back strain, due to the extra weight put on these areas of the body.
This position can also cause shallow breathing, making it difficult for some individuals to properly oxygenate their blood during the night. Shallow breathing can lead to sleep apnea, which can have long-term health consequences such as high blood pressure, heart disease, headaches, and even stroke.
How to Sleep on Your Stomach Comfortably
If you’ve decided that you would like to try sleeping on your stomach, there are a few things that you should consider in order to do it safely and comfortably. First, make sure that your mattress is supportive enough so that your spine stays in alignment while you sleep. You should also choose a pillow that is supportive but not too thick, as this can cause your neck muscles to become strained.
You should also make sure that your bed sheets are breathable so that you don’t get too hot during the night. Finally, try sleeping with a pillow placed over your chest so that it supports your neck and back while providing extra comfort.
Tips for Safely Transitioning From Side to Stomach Sleeping
Once you decide to transition from side sleeping to stomach sleeping, it’s important to take it slow. If you’ve been a side-sleeper for a long time, your body will need a bit of time to adjust to this new position. When transitioning, try sleeping on your back for a few nights before progressing onto your stomach.
You should also start off with shorter periods of time on your stomach. Try sleeping on your stomach for only a few hours at a time until your body gets used to it. Additionally, make sure that your mattress and pillow are adequately supportive for this position and that your bedsheets are breathable so you don’t get too hot.
Choosing the Right Mattress and Pillow for Stomach Sleepers
When choosing a mattress and pillow fitted for stomach sleeping, look for products that offer enough support while still keeping the body comfortable and in alignment. For those who are heavier, choose a firmer mattress that won’t sink or collapse when lying in prone position. A medium-firm mattress should suit most people just fine.
The pillow you choose should offer enough support for under your head as well as cushioning for your upper body. A thinner pillow is better for stomach sleepers as too much height can cause neck strain. Look for pillows specifically designed for stomach sleepers as these will provide just the right amount of support without overdoing it.
Alternatives to Stomach Sleeping
If you don’t feel like you’re ready to commit to stomach sleeping or if it just doesn’t feel right, there are other options available. You could try sleeping in an alternative sleeping position such as on your back with a pillow under your knees or on your side with your top leg slightly bent (also known as the “log” position). If neither of these feel comfortable, you could also try using a wedge pillow which will allow you to lie on your side without having to bend your legs too much.
Final Thoughts on Stomach Sleeping
As you can see, there are both pros and cons when it comes to stomach sleeping. Those who have a go-to stomach sleeping pattern tend to have outgoing personalities and a desire for control at the same time. While this position can be beneficial if done right, it can also come with potential risks and health issues if not done properly. Be sure to choose the right mattress and pillow as well as take necessary safety precautions when transitioning from side sleeping to prone sleeping.
