Chances are that one thing about your sleep routine is pretty consistent. Even if your bedtime changes nightly, or you wake up at wildly different times each morning, there’s probably one position that’s your favorite for slumber.
Unfortunately, the position that you find most comfortable might end up causing health problems, ranging from aches to sleep apnea. Learn about the pros and cons of common ways to sleep, and discover easy tips on making each position a little bit better for you.
Fetal
The most popular way to sleep is favored by more than 4 out of 10 people, especially among women, who are twice as likely as men to sleep curled up on their side.
For the most part, it’s a healthy way to doze, because it allows your spine to rest in its natural alignment. The fetal position might also help ward off conditions like Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s: Recent research on animals suggests that your brain does a better job of clearing waste that can lead to these neurological diseases when you’re sleeping on your side rather than on your back or stomach.
This position’s also good for pregnant women. You should stick to lying on your left side while expecting. It improves circulation to your growing baby and prevents your uterus from pressing against your liver.
Make it better: Stretch out a bit. Pulling your body into a tight ball or curling forward too much limits your lungs and diaphragm. A more relaxed back encourages easy breathing.
Log
Do you sleep on your side but with both arms down, close to your body? You’re in fairly good company, too: 15% of people prefer to catch their ZZZs in the log position. And that’s great, because it’s good for your health.
Resting on your side, with your back mostly straight, can help cut down on sleep apnea. It can also nix neck and back pain since your spine stays aligned.
Make it better: Place a soft pillow or folded blanket or towel between your knees to ease pressure on your hips.
