We all understand the importance of getting enough sleep for both mental and physical health, but it turns out that sleep posture may also play a significant role in achieving optimum health.
In particular, a limited body of evidence indicates that sleeping on the left side may be the key to greater health and sleep for many people. The theory is based on Ayurveda, an Indian system of holistic health care and medicine.
Why then is sleeping on the left side such a big deal? It turns out that the locations of certain organs may be advantageous for our stomachs, our backs, and even our hearts. These six advantages of sleeping on your left side may result from doing so are possible.
1. The lymphatic system is strengthened.
As the left side of our bodies is the dominant lymphatic side, sleeping on the left side enables your body to better filter lymph fluid and waste through the lymph nodes. Western study has also discovered that sleeping on the left side helps facilitate the body's removal of brain waste. On the other hand, sleeping on your right side can make your lymphatic system work less effectively.
2. It may improve digestion.
Due to the basic fact of gravity, sleeping on the left side may be better for digestion than on the right. In particular, resting on the left side makes it easier for waste to pass from the large intestine into the descending colon, increasing the likelihood that you'll have a bowel movement when you wake up. As our stomach is located on the left side of the body, sleeping on the left side also enables the stomach and pancreas to hang naturally, which can support the production of pancreatic enzymes and other digestive functions.
3. It’s good for your heart.
Pregnant women should sleep on their left side to increase blood flow to the heart, according to medical professionals. Sleeping on the left side may relieve some of the pressure on the heart, even if you're not pregnant (or a woman). This is because gravity can promote lymphatic drainage toward and aortic circulation away from the heart. However, it should be emphasized that there is considerable disagreement regarding whether side of the bed is better for heart health—left or right.
4. It’s ideal for pregnant women.
It benefits circulation in all sleepers, not just pregnant women. Additionally, it can assist to lower back pain, prevent the uterus from pressing against the liver, and improve blood flow to the uterus, kidneys, and fetus. Because of this, doctors frequently advise that expectant women sleep as much as possible on their left sides.
5. It may reduce acid reflux.
According to a research in The Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology, laying on one's left side helps lessen the symptoms of acid reflux. Once more, this is due to the left-sided position of our stomach. On the other hand, lying on the right side could make these symptoms worse. The results are fairly quick; if you experience heartburn after eating, try lying down on your left side for 10 minutes.
6. It could ease back pain .
It may be beneficial for those with persistent back pain to move to sleeping on their left side. This is so that the pressure on the spine can be relieved while you sleep on your side. Your odds of sleeping soundly will increase as you get more comfortable.
Note
While there are many compelling reasons to switch to sleeping on your left side, it's crucial to keep in mind that side sleeping may not be beneficial for everyone, especially those who have heart disease, sleep apnea, glaucoma, or carpal tunnel syndrome. It's always a good idea to speak with a medical expert if you're unclear of what sleep positions might be ideal for you.
How to make the switch
If you're prepared to make the change, you'll discover that it can take some time to establish your new sleeping position—on your left side. A smooth transition can be ensured by putting a few straightforward ideas into action. For instance, you might want to try placing a body pillow behind your back to make it more difficult for you to roll onto your left side while you're sleeping. Try sleeping on the opposite side of the bed from where you usually do so that your sleep orientation won't seem significantly different (even when you're on your opposite side).
Additionally, it's critical to select a mattress that is suitable for side sleeping. It's critical to select a softer mattress that will ease pressure in the hips and shoulders because sleeping on your side might strain those areas. A mattress that enables the spine to relax in natural alignment is something else to look for. Naturally, you should also check to see if the mattress you purchase feels comfy to you. Your chances of getting a good night's sleep and waking up feeling terrific are definitely increased by a comfortable bed and a sleeping position that promotes health.
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