Who knew sleeping this way would help with so many issues?
Editor’s note: This article was originally published on August 20, 2021. It has since been updated.
Sleep is a human's basic necessity, but the way a person sleeps in bed differs. While some sleep on their side, others sleep on their stomach, and a few others may sleep on their backs. Sometimes, it is hard to get a good night's sleep and most of us end up tossing and turning in bed, trying to find that perfect spot to doze off! Apparently, sleeping on your back might be the answer to all your sleep issues, says Healthline.
However, before you decide that it's the best position for you, there are a few things to be taken into consideration. For example, this is not meant for pregnant women, because sleeping on their backs will only cause them discomfort. People with sleep apnea and back pain might also want to completely avoid this position, adds Healthline.
But, for others, this might be the solution to all your sleep-related woes, though this might not be the most comfortable way to hit the sack. Here are eight reasons to help you consider opting for this position:
When you sleep on your spine, it mimics the backbone's position when a person is standing. Given that it's aligned with the surface, there's no strain on the spine. When you lie to your side, your spine is not in a straight line, causing it a lot of stress. By maintaining the natural curve of your spine, you can actually experience some relief from that nagging back and neck pain.
Your head and your face produce different kinds of oils and when it mixes, it can cause you to breakout. But, when you sleep on your back, your face does not come in contact with the pillowcase that contains all the oils from your hair and scalp, leaving your skin blemish-free. As for wrinkles, your face doesn't experience much stress because you're not tossing and turning, thus saving your face from those nasty creases.
There's nothing more uncomfortable than trying to get a good night's sleep with a flared-up sinus. However, sleeping on your back might just help you with that. By keeping your head slightly elevated above your heart, you reduce the chances of your nasal passages being clogged. This truly is the magic of gravity that's helping you keep your airways unblocked.
Similar to the effect sleeping on your spine has on your neck and back pain, it also helps with the annoying headaches that never seem to go away. Headaches rooted in the spine can't annoy you anymore because this sleeping position alleviates pressure, thus reducing pain.
When you lie on your belly or your side, chances are that you might be crowding your airways, because your diaphragm, the organ that helps you breathe, is compressed. When you lie down straight, your diaphragm is able to expand and shrink naturally, letting you breathe better.
Finally, the best part about sleeping with your face looking at the sky is that you get to wake up naturally, if you have curtains that let sunlight in. Honestly, this is the best way to wake up, and with time, you'll find it pleasant to wake up to this than to an alarm.
It's not easy to get into the habit of sleeping on your back if you're someone who sleeps in other positions. But, with time and some effort, it will come to you naturally, and eventually, you will notice your health improve as well!
References:
https://www.healthline.com/health/healthy-sleep/sleeping-on-your-back-how-to
https://www.healthline.com/health/sleep/sleeping-on-your-back-may-help-you-get-the-rest-you-need
Cover Image Source (Representative): Getty Images | fizkes
Disclaimer : This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
