Proper sleeping positions
Lying flat on your back forces your spine into an unnatural position, which can strain your muscles, joints and nerves. Your spine isn’t meant to be straight – it has three natural curves: one in your lower back, one in the middle of your back and one near your neck. Following this advice may help:
1. Lie on your side in the foetal position with your knees bent and a pillow tucked between your legs. This will take the most stress off your back.
2. If you must sleep on your back, prop a big, fluffy pillow under your knees to reduce the pressure on the sciatic nerve in your lower back.
3. Use a small pillow or a rolled-up towel under your neck as long as it doesn’t push your chin too far forward.
4. Don’t sleep on your stomach. Sleeping face down can exaggerate the arch at the base of your spine and cause strain. Try sewing or taping a tennis ball to the front of your nightdress or pyjama top. It will put an end to your stomach sleeping days.
Source: Readers Digest Asia
Category: Features, Wellness and Complementary Therapies
