Do you sleep on your back, side or front? Each sleeping position has different benefits and different drawbacks to be aware of. Here are our expert insights on sleeping positions, from the team at Bedpost.
Sleeping on your back – pros and cons
Back sleeping provides many benefits, although one small study suggests that poorer sleepers tend to sleep on their back more often than those who enjoy higher quality sleep. As long as you have the right pillow, sleeping on your back makes it easy to keep your head, neck and spine in alignment. Sleeping on your back can prevent acid reflux, but it is known to worsen snoring – which might not bother you, but will probably bother your partner!
Sleeping on your side – pros and cons
Side sleeping is the best position to prevent snoring and sleep apnea because it leaves your airways open (unless you tuck your chin in). It is also the best sleep position if you are pregnant. If you use the right pillow and mattress, you can sleep on your side with correct spinal alignment, which prevents neck and back pain. A con of side sleeping is that it can cause facial wrinkles because your face is putting pressure on your pillow. If you sleep on your side, you could try a silk pillowcase to avoid wrinkles!
Sleeping on your front – pros and cons
Most experts agree that sleeping on your stomach is a bad idea. Your front is less rigid than your back, so your core is more likely to sink into the mattress while your limbs and head stay higher up. This wreaks havoc on your spinal alignment and increases pressure on your muscles, joints and organs. Because your body is less comfortable, you are unlikely to get a restful sleep and will probably wake up still feeling tired. Front sleeping also pushes your face into your pillow, which can cause premature wrinkles.
So, what is the best sleeping position?
The best position for sleeping completely depends on you. If you aren’t having any issues with back pain, joint pain, snoring or heartburn, it isn’t necessary to change your sleep position. Do what feels most comfortable for you; the most important thing is that you’re sleeping deeply, without discomfort, and waking up feeling well rested.
The best mattresses and pillows for your sleep position
For side sleepers:
- Legend Medium Mattress by Sleepmaker
If you sleep on your side, a foam mattress offers deep contouring to support your impact points. The combination of wool and foam comfort layers, along with the innerspring unit of the Legend mattress, will promote correct spinal alignment and ensure you have a great sleep.
For back sleepers:
- Majestic Mattress by Sealy Posturepedic
The Majestic mattress is ideal if you sleep on your back. It combines the benefits of latex and innersprings and offers zoned support, particularly in the centre third of the mattress to protect your lower back.
For front sleepers:
- Augusta Firm Mattress by Sealy
If you sleep on your stomach, you should choose a firm mattress so that your core is less likely to sink and misalign your spine. The Augusta mattress is a great option for anyone who sleeps on their belly.
Pillows
Sometimes, your mattress may not be the issue. The wrong pillow will misalign your spine, particularly around the neck and shoulder area. Consider an ergonomic pillow with a shape designed for your body shape and predominant sleep position. We recommend the Tempur Symphony pillow, engineered to relieve discomfort for people who sleep on their side or back.
Get in touch with the Bedpost team to learn more about which mattresses and pillows are right for your sleep position!
