While a quality mattress plays a key role in your comfort, both while you sleep and when you’re awake, your sleep quality and comfort don’t depend on your mattress alone. Your pillow can also impact your sleep quality and your overall comfort. Choosing a quality pillow is an important first step, but it’s equally as important to understand how to position your head on a pillow. To get to the bottom of how to position your head on a pillow and why this position matters so much, I talked with several experts. Read on to learn the essential details of sleep ergonomics, how to position your head on a pillow, and how to choose the pillow that’s right for you. Increased cortisol
“When sleep quality reduces, this affects a number of things, but I explain to my patients the most impactful thing it can do is cause your cortisol levels to remain high if you do not get good quality sleep,” says Dr. Frits. That higher cortisol level increases inflammation in your body, and that can increase swelling and puffiness throughout your face and body. It can also exacerbate pain. “It also affects your mood, and keeps your body in a constant on-edge state Pain and stiffness By addressing factors such as pillow selection and sleeping position, individuals can mitigate pain, stiffness, and other sleep-related issues,” Dr. Ormond says. However, poor sleep ergonomics can make pain and stiffness worse pillows are essential in supporting the head, neck, and shoulders while you sleep, and that helps to create spinal alignment. right pillow can alleviate pressure points, reduce strain on neck muscles, and enhance overall comfort,” he says. “Conversely, using the wrong pillow or improper positioning can lead to neck stiffness, headaches, and discomfort.” Choosing the right pillow
Since pillows are so important to quality sleep and your health, it’s important to choose a pillow that’s right for you. Dr. Shani notes that the best pillow for your needs will largely depend on your sleeping position. “Whether you are a side sleeper or you prefer sleeping on your back or stomach, the goal must always be to maintain correct head and neck alignment that will promote muscle relaxation, and hence improve sleep quality For example, if you sleep on your stomach, you will need a very thin pillow to keep your neck and spine aligned. But if you sleep on your side, you’ll need a thicker pillow to support your head so that your neck doesn’t curve down toward the bed.
How To Position Your Head On The Pillow Proper Sleep Posture For Maximum Comfort
