We often hear about the ideal number of hours of sleep. But less often about how we sleep. Yet the position you adopt each night can significantly affect your well-being. Some positions promote good sleep and good blood circulation, while others can interfere with posture, breathing or even digestion in the long term.

And you, do you sleep “on your right side”?

Sleeping on your stomach: a habit you should avoid.

If you’re used to sleeping on your stomach, it might be time to reconsider this position. While it may seem comfortable at first glance, it’s not recommended by many sleep specialists.

Why? Because it:

Causes the head to turn sideways for hours,
leading to neck strain. Straightens the spine, which
can lead to back pain. Compresses the lungs and limits the quality of
breathing at night. Puts pressure on the face,
which promotes the appearance of fine lines. Can reduce blood circulation and cause tingling or numbness.

If you wake up stiff, tense, or tired despite having a good mattress… your sleeping position could well be the culprit.

The best positions for a restful sleep

Fortunately, some positions are much more respectful of your body. Here are three you should focus on:

On your back – “Starfish position”: for extensive recovery

Lying on your back with relaxed arms and legs, this position:

Respects the natural position of the spine.
Promotes muscle relaxation.
Enables fuller
breathing. Relieves the internal organs.

It is one of the most recommended positions for optimal physical recovery, especially by osteopaths and physiotherapists.

On the left side – the ally of digestion

There are several benefits to sleeping on your left side:

Improves digestion and reduces acid
reflux. Promotes better venous return to the heart.
Often recommended during pregnancy.
Provides better comfort for people prone to indigestion.

This is the ideal position if you have an upset stomach or restless sleep.

On the right side – Common, but use sparingly

This position is very common and generally comfortable, but:

May slightly worsen gastroesophageal
reflux disease. Less effective for lymphatic drainage.

It is still appropriate if you feel comfortable this way, provided you have good support for your lower back and neck.

And you, what does the way you sleep reveal?

According to some behavioral research:

Left: calm profiles, 45 to 54 years old. Right
: active people, often coffee enthusiasts.
On the stomach: stressed or anxious
personalities. On the back (starfish): independent temperaments, more likely to get up early.

It’s fun to watch… but also useful for getting to know yourself better.

Tips for better sleep…with good posture

Changing positions isn’t always easy. Here are some tips to help you gradually get used to it:

Use an ergonomic pillow to
relieve strain on your neck. Choose a balanced mattress (not too soft, not too firm).
If you sleep on your side, place a pillow between your knees to
keep your pelvis aligned. To get out of a stomach position, push a pillow or body pillow in front of you.

With a little perseverance, changing your attitude can change the quality of your nights…and your days.