Introduction:
Sleeping towards the east or west direction helps in getting undisturbed sleep, as blood circulation is believed to improve in these directions. A good night’s sleep is essential to improve concentration and reduce stress. It is very important as humans spend one-third of their life sleeping, and this is the time when the body repairs the organs.
Certain medical conditions, pregnancy, or snoring might influence the sleeping position. People sleep in a position that is most comfortable, but sleeping the wrong way might have adverse effects on their health. Some sleep positions can aggravate neck and back pain, and a few positions are contraindicated during pregnancy. This article discusses the merits and demerits of all sleeping positions, directions to sleep in, and sleeping positions during pregnancy.
What Is the Role of the Magnetic Field in Sleeping Directions?
Both earth and the human body have their own magnetic field. On earth, magnetic fields are concentrated in the north-south direction. When sleeping with the head in the north direction, the body’s magnetic field interferes with the earth’s magnetic field. This can result in blood pressure fluctuations and even cause heart conditions. The heart needs to work harder to overcome this. Elderly people and those with existing heart conditions can be at a higher risk of getting hemorrhage or stroke.
Another reason that can cause issues with sleeping positions is that human blood contains a lot of iron. When facing north while sleeping, the magnetic pull of the direction attracts iron, accumulating in the brain, which may cause headaches when they wake up.
What Are the Best Sleep Positions?
If the current sleep position aggravates pain or is uncomfortable, it is time to switch to another position slowly. This change might be the secret to improving the quality of sleep. The different sleep positions are:
1. Fetal Position:
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Position - Lay down on one of the sides, and curl the knees towards the chest. Bend the shoulder slightly towards the knees. Keep alternating sides.
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Pros - This is the most popular sleep position. It is best suited for people with lower back pain, snoring problems, and pregnant women. Make sure the posture is loose and relaxed.
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Cons - Sleeping in a tight fetal position can limit deep breathing and cause joint pain and stiffness in the morning.
2. The Freefall:
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Position - Lay flat on the stomach, and for better support, place a thin and soft pillow in the pelvic and abdomen region.
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Pros - It is said to be the most comfortable position and helps relieve degenerative disc stress and sleep apnea.
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Cons - Aggravates neck and back problems and may feel sore and tired in the morning.
3. The Soldier Position:
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Position - Lay down flat on the back with the hands placed straight on the sides. Placing a pillow under the knee will provide extra support to the back.
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Pros - The best position for the spine and helps relieve hip and knee pain. It protects from wrinkles due to the pillow and gravity.
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Cons - Aggravates snoring, sleep apnea, and back pain.
4. The Log Position:
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Position - Lying on either of the sides while placing the hand on the hip. Sleeping on the left side is best. Keeping a pillow between the legs relieves pressure from the lower back.
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Pros - Helps reduce snoring and improves digestion, thus reducing heartburn or acid reflux.
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Cons - It might make the shoulder and jaw of that side stiff and tight.
What Are the Best Sleep Directions?
Studies show that the direction of placing the head while sleeping also affects our health. There are benefits and disadvantages to each direction. The different sleep directions are:
1. Head Towards the South:
The direction of sleeping influences blood flow because the iron in the hemoglobin is affected by the earth's magnetic field, which is oriented in the north-to-south direction. Sleeping in the north hampers the proper blood supply of the brain and body. As a result, people will not feel fresh in the morning. Never sleep with the head in the north direction.
2. East-West Direction:
The east-west direction is also considered to be a good direction. This direction allows positive energy to flow through the body, making sleep peaceful. It is also known to increase memory and concentration.
Which Is the Best Sleeping Position for a Baby?
Always place the baby on their back unless told otherwise by the pediatrician. Side sleeping is not suggested as it is unsafe for babies and provides no benefits. Never put a baby to sleep on their tummy as it increases the chances of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome). Making the baby sleep on their back at the beginning of every nap reduces the risk of SIDS. Once the baby starts to roll over, gently roll them over on their back for the first few days. After some months, the baby will start sleeping in the position they feel most comfortable in.
Which Is the Best Sleeping Position for Pregnant Women?
It is best to sleep on the side while pregnant. Sleeping on the left side is believed to increase the amount of blood and nutrients to the baby through the placenta. To get more comfortable, bend the knees and place a pillow between them. Avoid sleeping on the back after the fifth month, as the baby can push the uterus upwards and compress the vena cava, a major blood vessel. This can slow blood circulation to the women’s body and the baby. This will make the person dizzy, nauseous, and short of breath. The belly can push down the intestines, while lying on the back causing tummy problems.
Conclusion:
Sleeping on the left has been shown to help in breathing properly, reduce pressure on the heart, help circulation, and promote good health. It also suggested to avoiding sleeping with the head towards the east and feet towards the west. Sleeping on the back offers the most benefits as it protects the spine and alleviates knee and hip pain. Consult a doctor for more information and doubts on ways to fall asleep faster and different sleep positions.