Did you know that 32.6% of working adults in the US reported sleeping less than six hours per night on average? This figure, which has increased in the past few years, is quite concerning given that the recommended amount of hours for optimal health is eight.
Good-quality sleep, in fact, is one of the cornerstones of good mental and physical health. If you are currently struggling with meeting your recommended hours of sleep, then this article is for you.
Let’s find out how you can improve your sleeping habits by choosing, and maintaining, the best position to sleep in and encourage a good night’s sleep.
Sleeping On Your Left Side
There is little doubt about it. Most sleep experts agree that good sleep hygiene begins with sleeping on your left side. You might have heard about this already, but do you know why this sleep position is so good for you?
First of all, side sleeping allows you to support and align your spine property, which in turn helps to relax and rest your muscles. Secondly, sleeping on your left side has been proven to relieve pressure on some of your internal organs.
This sleeping position is also the best choice for pregnant women, particularly those in the second and third trimesters. The reason is simple: by sleeping on your left side, you put a lot less pressure on your growing baby while allowing for optimal blood flow from the vena cava.
This vein plays a fundamental role in carrying blood to your heart and to your baby, which is why ensuring that it works correctly is paramount.
How to Encourage This Sleeping Position
If sleeping on your side is a new thing for you, it might need some getting adjusted to. For example, try the following:
- Switch from left to right side throughout the night
- Purchase the best pillow for side sleepers
- Place one pillow between your legs, and one behind your lower back to ensure correct support
Best Alternative: Sleeping On Your Back
Unless you are pregnant or suffering from a specific medical condition, you can choose to sleep on your back as another option to facilitate a good night’s rest. This is a very popular sleeping position, and its effectiveness is also supported by scientific evidence.
When you lie flat on your back, remember to relax your arms by your side. This will help you to keep your spine aligned while balancing out your weight evenly.
How to Encourage This Sleeping Position
You can maintain this sleeping position by trying the following tips:
- Place a pillow under your knees for optimal spine support and alignment
- Consider buying a supportive pillow to hold your head and neck. These should be around 3 to 5 inches thick and are great for back sleepers
Know (and Maintain) the Best Position to Sleep in
As we have discovered in this article, the best position to sleep in is lying on your side, preferably your left. This helps ensure good blood flow, rest your muscles, and promote optimal spine support and alignment.
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