The best way to reward your tired mind and body is by having a good night’s sleep. For some of us, however, this is easier said than done. After going through your pre-bedtime routine, switching off the lights and snuggling into bed, you still find yourself tossing and turning. At this point, you may have noticed the struggle to find the most comfortable sleep posture.
Selecting a mattress with the right level of firmness is dependent on your preferred sleeping position. To know which mattress provides the best cushioning and support for your sleep posture, start by identifying your sleeping style: Are you a side sleeper, back sleeper, stomach sleeper or a combination of the three? Let us find out below.
Back Sleepers
For back sleepers, they can look out for a mattress that is medium, firm or extra-firm with light to moderate contouring. When sleeping on the back, pain in certain body parts may arise based on your weight and mattress firmness level. If a mattress is too firm, the slight curve in the lower back will be left unattended. As a result, great pressure is exerted on the lower back which causes back pain and subsequently leads to spinal disc damage, nerve compression and improper movement of the spinal joints[1]. A mattress that is too soft, on the other hand, may result in the back sleeper’s spine to sink into the mattress, which can lead to spine alignment issues.
Side Sleepers
People who prefer to sleep on their side can opt for a medium-soft or medium mattress firmness. While trying out some beds at your local mattress store, make sure to stay on a mattress long enough to feel the comfort as well as the discomfort. For side sleepers, they are likely to experience heavier pressure on the shoulders and hip. If you find your shoulder and neck collapsing into the mattress, chances are the mattress is too soft for your body and it will create spinal misalignment and pain if used in the long run[2]. A firmer mattress and pillow can diminish this risk and keep your head aligned with your shoulders.
Stomach Sleepers
Like sleeping on your belly? Consider a mattress with medium-firm support, particularly if you are on the heavier side. This will reduce the risk of developing hip and back pain as your body will sink less into the mattress. Even though sleeping on your stomach reduces snoring, try to avoid sleeping in this position as you are likely to be awake and restless while straining your neck and lower back. Additionally, sleeping on your tummy will add pressure to the lumbar spine. If you insist on sleeping in this posture, you may use a soft pillow or none to rest your head and keep your neck comfortable.
Combination Sleepers
Basically, individuals who sleep in two or more positions throughout the night. If you sleep on your back but wake up the next day on your side, you are a combo sleeper. As a combination sleeper, you may want to find a mattress that ideally accommodates all of your sleeping positions. Most certainly, having a pillow that is designed for a variety of positions is a much needed complementary item to the perfect mattress. Not sure of your sleeping style? Ask yourself which position is the one you spend the most time on.
Explore Getha’s Compass Mattress Collection
Our Compass Latex Mattress series are designed based on Biocare (EMF-Free) Technology, Nano Silver and Anti-Static Protection to give you a deep, restful sleep. The Compass Star Mattress (Medium Firm) caters for back and stomach sleepers, while the Compass Green Mattress (Soft) may be what side and stomach sleepers need. Getha’s Compass Gold 100 Mattress (Firm Plush) are ideal for back, side and combination sleepers.
By considering your weight, mattress firmness level and sleeping style, you have a better evaluation of choosing a mattress that offers the most comfort and support. For more information on Getha’s Compass Mattress collection, visit our website at www.getha.com.my and speak to our sleep consultants today!
Speak to our Sleep Consultants
Sources:
1. https://www.spine-health.com
2. https://www.healthline.com/health/side-sleeper#side-effects