Your sleeping position may reveal more than you think – both when it comes to health and personality.
While research isn’t always clear-cut, there are some fascinating links between how you sleep and how you feel.
Find your sleep position
Even though there’s no strong scientific proof, your sleep posture has been linked to snoring, pain, and how often you wake up at night.
On your stomach
Stomach sleepers often experience restlessness and strain on the neck and lower back. Using a very soft pillow, or none at all, can reduce the pressure.
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Stomach position: Freefall
About 7 % sleep on their stomach with arms around the pillow and head turned to the side.
These sleepers may be outgoing and straightforward, but less open to criticism.
On your back
Sleeping on your back can worsen back pain and make snoring or sleep apnea more problematic. If this is your preferred position, ask your doctor for advice.
Back position: Soldier
Roughly 8 % sleep flat on their back with arms down close to the body.
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This style is linked to quiet, reserved people who hold high standards for themselves and others.
Back position: Starfish
Only 5 % sleep on their back with arms raised above their head. These people are often seen as good listeners who don’t crave the spotlight.
On your side
Side sleeping is one of the most common ways to rest, with many preferring the fetal position.
Side position: Fetal
Over 40 % of people curl up on their side at night. Women are twice as likely to choose this position.
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These sleepers may be warm, sensitive, and friendly, but also protective of themselves.
Side position: Log
15 % sleep straight on their side with arms down. This group is often described as easygoing, sociable, and trusting.
Side position: Yearner
Around 13 % stretch their arms forward while lying on their side. They may be open-minded but stubborn, sticking firmly to decisions.
Side position: Spooning
Sleeping close to a partner can cause more awakenings, but cuddling boosts oxytocin.
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This hormone reduces stress, strengthens bonds, and may help you fall asleep faster.
If you snore
Side sleeping can help reduce snoring. If you prefer lying on your back, extra pillows might ease the problem.
Loud snoring, especially if it wakes you up or leaves you tired, may be a sign of sleep apnea, a condition linked to heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure.
If you have back pain
Side sleeping works best for easing back discomfort. A pillow between the knees can reduce strain further. Back sleepers may benefit from a pillow under the knees.
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If you’re pregnant
Side sleeping is usually most comfortable and healthier during pregnancy, especially on the left side. It may improve blood and nutrient flow to the baby.
Supporting pillows under the belly and between the knees can provide relief.
What about your mattress?
The right mattress should fit your body type and sleep style. It needs to be firm enough to support your back but soft enough to adjust to your shape.
Some stores let you test mattresses and exchange them if they don’t suit you.
Sleep positions and personality
Some suggests your favorite sleeping position may reflect aspects of your social and emotional personality, but it is not scientifically proven.
Sleep position and health
Even though the scientific link is weak, posture can affect pain, rest quality, and even relationship closeness.
Sleep quality depends on comfort
No matter your favorite position, comfort and support are key for restorative sleep.
Variation can help
If one posture causes problems, try adjusting or learning to fall asleep in another. Small changes may have a big impact.
Listen to your body
Your body gives clues about what works. Discomfort, fatigue, or pain may signal it’s time to switch positions or upgrade your sleep environment.
This article is based on information from WebMD.