What does being a stomach sleeper say about you?
Sleeping on your stomach is one of the most common sleeping positions, with some estimates suggesting up to 20 percent of people are stomach sleepers. It’s a difficult sleeping position, and requires a firm mattress, good pillow, and healthy body mechanics to make it comfortable.
The Benefits of Being a Stomach Sleeper
Stomach sleeping is beneficial in certain aspects, including helping the individual breathe more freely and deeply, as stomach sleeping separates the tongue from the back of the throat and allows the airways to open more effectively. Additionally, it helps reduce snoring, as well as allowing for better digestion as it hinders food from backing up into esophagus causing acid reflux.
Stomach sleeping can also help reduce neck and back pain, as it helps to keep the spine in a neutral position. It can also help to reduce the risk of sleep apnea, as it helps to keep the airways open. Additionally, it can help to reduce stress and anxiety, as it helps to relax the body and mind.
The Drawbacks of Stomach Sleeping
The drawbacks of stomach sleeping are often related to the discomfort it can cause in the neck, shoulders and back. This discomfort is generally due to an unsupportive mattress or an incorrect pillow, which can lead to tension in the neck and upper back muscles. Furthermore, because of the position of the head and neck, compression can occur which can lead to nerve constriction and subsequent pain radiated down the arms. In addition, this type of sleeping position can facilitate snoring because the head is usually turned to one side, potentially exacerbating snoring.
How to Make Stomach Sleeping More Comfortable
One of the best things you can do to make stomach sleeping more comfortable is to make sure your mattress is firm enough. This will help keep your spine properly aligned, as it will be slightly less curved in this position than in other sleep positions. You should also consider using a flat pillow under your stomach and hips; doing so can help relieve pressure from your neck, shoulders, and back.
The Best and Worst Mattresses for Stomach Sleepers
For stomach sleepers, a firmer mattress such as an innerspring or latex foam mattress is ideal. This will help provide the necessary support while still allowing you to sink in just enough for cushioning. Softer mattresses like memory foam are not recommended for stomach sleepers as they can lead to a misalignment of the spine. A mattress that is too soft can cause your body to sag lower than what’s comfortable and can make it difficult to get out of bed when it’s time to wake up.
Tips for Reducing Neck And Back Pain from Stomach Sleeping
To reduce neck and back pain from stomach sleeping, it is important to find the right combination of softer and firmer pillows that provide support for your neck and back. The pillow you use should be soft enough to provide cushioning for your head, but firm enough to provide support. It should not be so firm that it causes your neck or spine to arch or be placed in an uncomfortable position. Additionally, using a body pillow may help to provide lumbar support and further cushioning while helping maintain proper spine alignment.
What Your Sleep Position Says About Your Personality
There’s a Theory that the sleeping position you choose can tell a lot about your personality traits. Stomach sleepers may face more health hazards, but they also possess many desirable character traits like being proactive, independent, and having unwavering determination. Individuals who prefer stomach sleeping tend to be more risk-takers and believe in making things happen quickly.
How to Change Your Sleep Position
If you’re looking to switch from stomach sleeping to another sleep position, a gradual transition is best. Start by reducing the amount of time you spend sleeping on your stomach, then gradually increase the amount of time spent sleeping in another position like on your back or side. As you become accustomed to the new position, spend more time sleeping in it until you’ve fully transitioned. You may also consider investing in adjustable beds or pillows that can help support different sleep positions.
Common Misconceptions about Stomach Sleeping
A common misconception about stomach sleeping is that it’s not healthy and that people who do it have poor sleep hygiene. While sleeping on your stomach can be more uncomfortable than other positions, it doesn’t mean it has to be unhealthy. With the right mattress and pillow, stomach sleeping can be just as comfortable as other sleep positions.
How to Improve Sleep Quality as a Stomach Sleeper
One of the best ways to improve sleep quality as a stomach sleeper is by making sure your mattress is comfortable and supportive. A good mattress will support your body in all sleeping positions, so make sure you buy one according to your sleeping habits. Additionally, if you’re experiencing neck or back pain, try placing a pillow under your chest or hips for additional support.
