Nightly rest check. Back or side?

You spend about a third of your life asleep. While you’re off in dreamland, your body is quietly fixing, tuning and recharging itself. Your sleep position can either help with the repairs or throw a tiny wrench into the works. 

Knowing the perks and pitfalls of different positions helps you find the one that keeps you comfortable, supported and actually ready to face the morning. 

The way you sleep can change how you feel when you wake up. Two of the most common positions are back sleeping and side sleeping. Each one does different things for your body. 

Back sleeping 

Experts at Harvard Health say sleeping on your back helps your spine stay in a healthy position, which can cut down on morning aches.  

With your spine in a straight line, your muscles get a chance to relax. The catch? Back sleeping can make snoring louder. That may be fine for you, but it's a different story for anyone within earshot. It can also encourage acid reflux, which is never a fun midnight surprise. 

Side sleeping 

Side sleeping is common because, frankly, it just feels cozy. The Sleep Foundation notes that it also helps keep your airway open, which can turn the volume down on snoring. 

It’s also great for reducing heartburn since your stomach sits lower than your throat. Breathing tends to feel easier, too, which can lower the risk of sleep apnea.  

A few simple tricks can make either position more comfortable: 

• Choose a pillow that keeps your head level with your shoulders. 

• Keep your spine as straight as you comfortably can. 

• Add a pillow between your knees if you’re a side sleeper. 

• Try a small pillow under your knees if you sleep on your back. 

So, which sleep position wins? The truth is that your body decides. The best choice is the position that helps you wake up rested and ready for the day.  

If you feel stiff or groggy, try switching things up and see what feels better. Listen to your body, follow its hints and find the position that makes you happiest to greet the morning. It helps you think clearly, stay healthy and maybe be just a little less grumpy at breakfast.