Four most common sleeping positions, only one provides good night's sleep
Sleeping on your stomach is the worst choice. This puts pressure on the muscles of the head, neck and jaw, strains the jaw, and can also limit the lower back and pelvis
There are sleeping positions that are good or bad for health. According to some studies, certain poses should be avoided. Four poses in which people most often sleep and how they affect health:
1. Fetal position
"This pose can signal to our nervous system that we are on the run or fighting and that it is not safe to fall asleep. Instead, I recommend sleeping in an open position because it helps open up the lung area which allows people to take deep breaths" advises Elina Winnel, a sleep expert from Australia.
She added that it would be good to avoid sleeping in the fetal position, reports the Daily Mail.
2. Sleeping on your side
"Sleeping on one side of the body is the best position where you can fall asleep. It is recommended to use pillows under the head and next to the body. From a neurological perspective and from the perspective of the muscles and the airways, it is best for the body" says Dr. Ron Ehrlich, as reported by the Daily Mail.
He adds that sleeping on the left side is better for digestion, given where the esophagus enters the stomach.
3. Lying on your stomach
"Sleeping on your stomach is the worst choice. This puts pressure on the muscles of the head, neck and jaw, strains the jaw, and can also limit the lower back and pelvis. Imagine squeezing a wet towel, that’s what happens to your muscles and joints while you sleep on your stomach,” says Dr. Ehrlich.
Shelby Harris, a sleep expert and professor at Albert Einstein School of Medicine, agrees. He says sleeping on your stomach creates unnecessary pressure on your whole body.
"You will probably wake up with numbness and tingling, and this can increase the possibility of muscle and joint pain," he adds.
4. Flat on your back
According to many experts, sleeping on your back is the best choice for good health and quality sleep.
"It is good to sleep on your back with your head, neck, and upper back in a slightly raised position. It provides rest for the shoulders and back, and also, helps with reflux when stomach acid returns to the esophagus," said Dr. Mark T. Brown.
Read more: Good night's sleep: 10 tips to help you relax.
By: Helen B.
