During this pandemic, levels of stress and depression are extremely high. In such cases, this may cause you to sleep too much or not sleep at all. Despite the changes in our routine, we should try to maintain constant sleep patterns and schedule. In addition to getting enough sleep, the sleeping position also matters a lot.

According to a recent study, 10% of people are back sleepers. The study also found that sleeping on the back makes sure the spine supports the neck and prevents neck pain. In addition, sleeping on your back may boost digestion especially when you go to bed immediately after eating heavily.

Sleeping by your sides

A good number of people also sleep by their sides. A study conducted in 2015, found sleeping by your side may help clear brain waste and reduce the risk of cognitive decline. The 2015 study also shows that sleeping on the sides helps to clear the airways and boost blood flow and circulation in the body. Sleeping on the sides can be a solution to sleep apnea and cure for high blood pressure.

There is a small number of who sleep on their stomachs. This is the least popular sleeping position according to the study. Sleeping on your stomach may have some health benefits. For instance, sleeping on the stomach helps you breathe much easier it may help those with sleep apnea. Like back sleepers, sleeping on the stomach may help with indigestion problems. Sleeping on the stomach may not be ideal for those with achy joints and troublesome necks as the position adds more pressure to joints.

Factors that affect sleep position

When you talk about sleeping positions, the main factor that comes to mind is comfort. Each individual has their own sleeping positions which are determined by a number of factors. Age is one factor that influences one’s sleeping position. Study shows that as people age, they tend to gravitate to sleeping sideways. Gender also affects sleep position with women said to be twice more likely to prefer sleeping in a fetal position. Sleeping position becomes even more important to women during pregnancy. Pregnant women are discouraged from sleeping on their backs and instead encouraged to sleep sideways.