The three most common sleeping positions
- Sleeping on your side
- Pros:
- This is one of the most popular positions and is often recommended by sleep experts.
- It helps to keep your spine in a neutral position, especially if you put a pillow between your knees.
- Good for people who snore, because it keeps the airways open.
- Cons:
- It can put pressure on the shoulders and hips, which can cause discomfort.
- A mattress that is too soft or too firm can throw your spine out of alignment.
- Sleeping on your back
- Pros:
- This position spreads your body weight evenly, which reduces pressure on joints and muscles.
- It can help to prevent back and neck pain, provided you use a supportive pillow.
- Cons:
- Not suitable for people who snore or have sleep apnoea, as it can block the airways.
- A poor mattress can leave your lower back without enough support.
- Sleeping on your stomach
- Pros:
- Can help to reduce snoring.
- Cons:
- This is the least recommended sleeping position, because it disrupts the natural curve of the spine.
- It can lead to neck and back pain because your head is turned to one side.
- It often puts extra pressure on your internal organs.
How to choose the best sleeping position for you
The best sleeping position depends on your personal preferences, your health and your comfort. Here are some tips:
- For back pain:
- Sleep on your side with a pillow between your knees, or on your back with a pillow under your knees, to support the natural curve of your spine.
- For neck pain:
- Use an ergonomic pillow that supports your head and neck properly when you lie on your side or back.
- For snoring or sleep apnoea:
- Try sleeping on your side, as this keeps your airways clear.
- For pregnant women:
- Sleeping on your side, especially the left side, is recommended to improve circulation and reduce pressure on the back.
Why the right mattress and pillow matter
The right sleeping position only works if your mattress and pillow support it. Here are some recommendations:
- For side sleepers:
- Choose a pressure-relieving mattress, such as a memory foam mattress or a mattress with 7-zone pocket springs. This prevents pressure points at the shoulders and hips.
- For back sleepers:
- A medium-firm mattress, such as a cold foam mattress, gives the lower back enough support.
- For stomach sleepers:
- A firmer mattress is better, to stop your hips sinking in too far and throwing your spine off balance.
- Pillows:
- Use a pillow that suits your sleeping position. A thinner pillow suits back and stomach sleepers, while a thicker pillow is ideal for side sleepers.
Mattresses from our range that can help
Our wide range includes mattresses to suit every sleeping position:
- Souplesse Visco:
- Ideal for side sleepers thanks to its memory foam layer, which reduces pressure points.
- Quartz Stable Latex:
- A natural latex mattress that gives excellent support to both side and back sleepers.
- King Micropocket:
- Perfect for back sleepers, with its 7-zone pocket spring system and cold foam layer.
- Heaven Matras:
- An affordable option for stomach sleepers who need a firmer mattress.
Conclusion
There is no such thing as the 'perfect' sleeping position, because so much depends on personal preferences and health. What is certain is that a good sleeping position, combined with the right mattress and pillow, is essential for healthy sleep. Whether you sleep on your side, back or stomach, we have the right mattress for your needs.
Would you like to know more or try a mattress? Visit our showroom by appointment or contact us by phone, chat or email. We will be glad to help you find your perfect sleeping position.
