Sleep is extremely personal. Some people can fall asleep in just 30 seconds, virtually anywhere – even with loud noises and bright lights. Others need 400 thread count sheets, a white noise machine, and complete darkness to drift into dreamland.
Are you a natural stomach sleeper? If so, you know, having the right mattress matters, which is something that has been delineated by our friends at Shape. However, it’s also important to note that you are quite rare in this world, with just 16% of all adults claiming to sleep this way.
The question you need to think about is – is stomach sleeping really good for you? If you are unsure, keep reading. Here you can find out some of the top benefits offered by sleeping on your stomach.
Alleviate Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
One of the biggest positives of sleeping on your stomach is that it may help alleviate sleep apnea symptoms or reduce issues for those who snore. When you lay on your stomach, it means your airways remain open. This doesn’t happen when you lay down on your back.
Reduce Heartburn and Acid Reflux
Do you suffer from heartburn or acid reflux? If so, sleeping on your back may not provide much relief. A better option is to sleep on your stomach. By doing this, you can reduce your symptoms and may even be able to get a more restful night’s sleep.
Get More Restful Sleep
Sleeping on your stomach often helps you get a more result night’s sleep. This is going to help you feel better and may even help improve your health.
Tips to Avoid Adverse Effects of Stomach Sleeping
It’s important to note that most of the information out there talks about how sleeping on your stomach is actually bad for you. While this may have some truth to it, if you find yourself sleeping on your stomach often, there are some steps you can take to reduce the issues you may experience.
Place a Pillow Under Your Abdomen
Do you have an older pillow that is almost completely flat from years of use? If so, place it under your hips to help with spine alignment. Doing this can also relieve some of the pressure on your back.
Remember that depending on how this position feels, you may not want to use a pillow. If you feel any pain, place a thin pillow beneath your head, which will help you avoid neck pain resulting from sleeping on your stomach.
Purchase a Quality Mattress
Today, you can find mattresses designed for all types of sleepers – including stomach sleepers. Take some time to shop around and find a mattress that will provide the support you need most.
If you suffer from degenerative disc disease, you may benefit from adding pillows, and it may help to relieve the stress put on the spaces in between your spinal discs.
Tips for Stomach Sleepers
If you insist on sleeping on your stomach, make sure you shift your sleep position from time to time. You should also keep your legs together so you do not twist your spine from living a leg while in a crawl position. Be sure to stretch regularly, too. Engaging in light yoga before heading to bed is both comforting and relaxing.
Sleeping on your stomach can be relaxing, restful, and pain-free. While there may be some potential issues with this position, you can enjoy a pain-free, comfortable sleeping position with the tips and information here. Keep this in mind and use these tips to get the most restful night’s sleep possible.
