Easy methods to improve your sleep health with back sleeping

Back sleeping is one of the healthiest ways to rest, but if you aren't used to lying on your back, it can be hard to adopt this new sleep style. But as a pressure-relieving and spine-supporting sleep position, it's worth making the effort to try and sleep on your back

The position we fall asleep in might seem like a simple comfort choice, but - just like how sleeping on the best mattress for your sleep needs can impact your sleep quality - your sleep position can play an important role in your overall wellbeing. A healthy back sleeping position allows for the natural curve of the spine, while aiding even pressure relief across the body. This can limit back and joint pain, as well as reduce overall aches and pains. And all you need to achieve healthy back sleeping is a little help from your pillows.

The tips we've gathered here can help you consistently drift off in a back sleeping position, but to make the most of this sleep style, you need the best mattress to match. We'll dive into what to look for in a mattress for back sleepers below, but for now, let's explore why you should sleep on your back, and how to get started. 

What are the benefits of sleeping on your back?

Back sleeping is widely considered one of the healthiest positions to sleep in, thanks to the support it provides for the lumbar region. Side sleeping is also a recommended sleep position, but sleeping on your stomach is the unhealthiest sleep position, due to the prolonged pressure your neck and spine is placed under when lying on your front. 

But let's dive into the benefits of back sleeping. When lying on your back, gravity is able to distribute weight evenly across the body, taking pressure off the muscles and joints. "This helps your whole body relax, which is the best way for your body to recover," said Aimee Brame, consultant physician from Sleep Centre at London Bridge Hospital, when Tom's Guide spoke to her regarding 

And weight distribution isn't the only benefit. 

“Sleeping on your back or your side allows for proper alignment of your spine" explained Dr. Ali H. Mesiwala, neurosurgeon and sports specialist at DISC Sports & Spine Center, when we asked him which is the healthiest sleep position. Allowing for the natural curve of the spine, back sleeping can help you avoid waking up with a sore and creaky lower back.

Back sleeping is good for your body, but that 

doesn't mean it's easy to break a bad sleep position habit. Thankfully, there are simple steps you can take that will make sleeping on your back feel as natural as closing your eyes and drifting off.