Each night, we partake in our normal nightly routine and lay down and go to sleep, without thinking about it very much. Our sleeping position does say a lot about who we are, so it is worth considering. What position do you sleep in?
While our sleeping position may be habitual, most of us don’t think about it very often. Much like our body language, our sleeping style is a way our body communicates when we sleep.
Collection of young woman sleeping in bed in various poses. Set of female cartoon character lying in different postures during night slumber. Top view. Colorful vector illustration in flat style
According to Reader’s Digest:
“When you think about it,” observes David Greuner, MD, FACS, FICS of NYC Surgical Associates, “most people spend six or more hours per day sleeping, so of course your sleeping position reveals a lot about you.” And by that, Dr. Gruener is referring not only to your personality but your health. Michelle Robin, DC adds that your sleeping position can also affect your health. “If you remain in a position for hours at a time that puts a kink in your neck, numbs your arm, or hurts your hip, it takes a toll,” she explains, “one that is not merely physical, but also mental and energetic.”
So what is your sleeping style?
1. Fetal.
The fetal position is when you lie in the shape of a baby in the womb, and sleep researcher Samuel Dunkell explains that sleeping in this position is often tied to anxious and emotional personalities. Another researcher, Chris Idzikowski, explains that he has observed that those who sleep in this position are shy around new people, but also relax fairly quickly. Enhance your comfort with a full-body pillow, providing support to reduce strain.
2. Log
Sleeping like a log is when you sleep with your arms and legs extended straight at your sides- much like a log while sleeping on your side. People who sleep like this are usually sociable and extroverted. Since they are likely to open people, they may also get taken advantage of, because they tend to be gullible, says Idzikowsk. A contour pillow can support the natural curve of the neck for these sleepers.
3. Yearner
Yearners sleep like logs, but their arms are outstretched above their head. Idzikowsky explains that his research shows that people who sleep like this are open, but not as open as log sleepers. He also says they can be a bit cynical and suspicious.
4. Soldier
Sleeping like a soldier is when you are sleeping on your back, with your arms down by your side. Unfortunately, this style can lead to snoring, and bad bedtime breathing. Idzikowski’s research shows that people who sleep this way are usually quiet, reserved, and hold themselves and others to a high standard. A memory foam mattress topper provides uniform back support for soldier sleepers.
5. Freefall.
If you sleep on your stomach, with your arms around your pillow and your head tilted to one side, you sleep like in the free fall position. This position can cause neck issues. Idzkowski’s research found that people who sleep in this position can be blunt, social, and highly sensitive. A thin, firm pillow ensures the neck stays neutral, reducing potential discomfort for freefallers.
6. Starfish
Oh, the starfish. People who sleep like this lie on their back, with both arms around the pillow, completely sprawled out. The position looks much like it sounds and can lead to snoring. However, overall, it is a relatively healthy position to sleep. According to Idzikowski, these types of sleepers make good friends and listeners and are extremely helpful people. They often do not enjoy being in the spotlight, either. Starfish sleepers can benefit from an adjustable bed frame to reduce snoring and enjoy more comfort.