A study of women between the ages of 20-44 found that 48% sleep primarily on their back (supine), 41% on their sides (fetal position) and 11% on their stomach (prone). Stomach sleeping for babies is discouraged because it’s linked to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). [3] X Research source Sleeping on your back or side is better for your posture. [4] X Research source
Start by saying or thinking, “I will sleep on my side (or back) tonight because it’s best for my body” at least 10 times. With positive affirmations meant to affect the subconscious mind, it’s best not to use negative language, as in “I won’t sleep on my stomach tonight. " Keep all language directive and in the positive form. Affirmations have helped many people make significant changes, but they don’t always work for everyone or all conditions. Relax before bed. The more comfortable and calm you are, the more likely you are to easily fall asleep. [6] X Expert Source Alex Dimitriu, MDSleep Medicine & Psychiatry Professional Expert Interview. 16 October 2019.
Orthopedic pillows can be purchased at medical supply and rehabilitation stores, as well at the offices of some chiropractors and physiotherapists. Buy a pillow with obvious supportive contours and not the flat ones merely made from memory form. Remember, you’re trying to make it uncomfortable to use while on your stomach.
People (especially infants) who sleep on their stomachs tend to be less reactive to noise, experience less movement and have higher arousal thresholds. Stomach sleeping helps prevent heat dissipation from your internal organs, so the position retains more heat during the night. In contrast, sleeping on your back allows you to cool down easier.
If you’re feeling a little nervous or vulnerable about being hypnotized, then get the hypnotist to video record your sessions. They may also make you subliminal audio MP3s / CDs to take home and listen to. Alternatively, ask a friend to join you and keep an eye on things while you’re hypnotized.
If side sleeping, select a pillow that fits between the tip of you shoulder and the side of your head. Thus, thick pillows are best for broad-shouldered people and thin pillows for the narrow shouldered — a pillow of the appropriate thickness will keep your neck aligned and help prevent tension or cervicogenic headaches. [11] X Research source To promote sleeping on your side, get a body pillow to hug, which might replace the sense of security and warmth you were getting from stomach sleeping. Everyone who sleeps on their side should use a pillow between their legs to promote hip alignment. [12] X Trustworthy Source University of Rochester Medical Center Leading academic medical center in the U. S. focused on clinical care and research Go to source
If your back feels stiff after sleeping supine, put a small pillow (wedge-shaped ones work well) or rolled-up towel under the small of your back (lumbar area) and keep it there during the night. [14] X Trustworthy Source University of Rochester Medical Center Leading academic medical center in the U. S. focused on clinical care and research Go to source While your head is elevated above the level of your stomach, heartburn is minimized because stomach acid has a much harder time coming up against the effects of gravity. [15] X Research source Warning: Factor in any physical ailments before you switch sleeping positions If you’ve had back surgery, sleeping on your side in the fetal position may be the most comfortable, while sleeping on your side may be better if you have a history of snoring or sleep apnea. On the other hand, if you have chronic shoulder pain from an old sports injury, then sleeping on your back might be the best position. [16] X Trustworthy Source Johns Hopkins Medicine Official resource database of the world-leading Johns Hopkins Hospital Go to source
