What does sleeping on your stomach say about you?
Many people associate different sleeping positions with different personalities and character traits. It’s been said that those who sleep on their stomachs may be gentle and easy-going, while those who sleep on their sides can often be self-sacrificing. But what does sleeping on your stomach truly say about you?
The Pros and Cons of Stomach Sleeping
The major pros of sleeping on your stomach include keeping your spine and neck in a straight line and avoiding making contact with your partner during the night. Conversely, the drawbacks are that it can cause neck and back strain due to the unnatural angle at which you must keep your neck in order to breathe. Additionally, stomach sleepers can be at risk of suffocation due to their flat position.
Stomach sleeping can also cause facial wrinkles due to the pressure of the pillow on the face. Furthermore, it can be difficult to find a comfortable position when sleeping on your stomach, as the stomach is a sensitive area. Lastly, stomach sleeping can cause digestive issues due to the pressure of the stomach on the internal organs.
How Stomach Sleeping Affects Your Health
Stomach sleeping has potential cumulative health risks, such as muscle strain in the neck and lower back. This is because stomach sleeping allows the spine to be unsupported, subjecting it to excessive strain. This can lead to further health problems, such as headaches, sleeping difficulties and even arthritis. Furthermore, sleeping on your stomach can restrict breathing, which can increase the chances of snoring and other health issues.
In addition to the physical health risks, stomach sleeping can also have a negative impact on mental health. Studies have shown that people who sleep on their stomachs are more likely to experience anxiety and depression. This is because stomach sleeping can lead to a lack of restful sleep, which can have a negative effect on mood and mental wellbeing.
The Benefits of Sleeping on Your Stomach
For people who don’t shift around in their sleep, sleeping on your stomach can be beneficial. It eliminates the need to roll over throughout the night, reducing distraction and improving sleep quality overall. Additionally, it can provide relief for those who suffer from joint pain, as the lack of pressure helps to reduce aching.
The Challenges of Stomach Sleeping
For stomach sleepers, there are some potential challenges that come with the position. Firstly, it can make it difficult to turn your head in order to breathe, as the neck is kept in an unnatural angle when flat on your stomach. This restricted breathing can lead to snoring, or worse. Secondly, it can cause discomfort due to no support being provided for the spine. Lastly, due to its flat position, stomach sleeping may cause increased sweating.
How to Sleep Comfortably on Your Stomach
If you are a dedicated stomach sleeper, it is important to practice good sleep hygiene. This includes using a softer mattress that is not too firm – this will help to cushion the spine and reduce pain. Additionally, using a pillow that is neither too high nor too low is essential for comfort and support. This will help keep the neck in a neutral position in order for easy breathing.
Tips for Better Sleep When Sleeping on Your Stomach
It is important to practice proper sleep hygiene when sleeping on your stomach. It is useful to have a few different pillows on hand – one for width beneath your hips and waist and one with a fairly flat surface. This will help support your spine from multiple angles. Additionally, keep your bedroom cool by using lightweight cotton blankets instead of heavy duvets.
How to Choose the Right Pillow for Stomach Sleepers
Selecting a suitable pillow for stomach sleepers is essential for comfort and health. Look for a pillow that is on the thinner side with a lower loft – this will help keep your neck in a neutral position. Additionally, look for a pillow that is not overly firm that will help cushion your hips and shoulders. Lastly, look for a pillow that is made with breathable fabrics to assist with regulating your body temperature.
What Experts Say About Stomach Sleeping
Experts agree that stomach sleeping should be avoided if possible, as it can lead to neck pain and restricted breathing. If you are unable to change positions during the night, they suggest only adopting this position part-time or adding additional support such as a rolled-up towel underneath your hips while keeping the neck straight and well-supported with a pillow.
Common Myths About Stomach Sleeping Debunked
Despite what you may have heard, there are no indications that sleeping on your stomach makes you more prone to psychological issues or emotional instability – these myths have been debunked by sleep scientists like Shalini Paruthi from the Sleep Medicine Centers of America. Additionally, it is often suggested that sleeping on your left side will help to prevent heartburn; however, this has not been proven.
