Sleep is obviously a vital part of life, but the specific way you sleep has an effect on more than you might think. The position in which you sleep can be the cause of issues such as lack of energy in the morning, aches and pains, snoring, and even wrinkles…yes, wrinkles! Research shows that sleeping on the back is the best position because it helps prevent neck and back pain, reduces acid reflux, and minimizes wrinkles. Sleeping on your back aligns the neck and spine so there are no extra curves in your back. The worst position for sleep is lying on the stomach because it can cause snoring and also puts pressure on joints and muscles which can irritate nerves, leading to pain and numbness.

Sleep positions can even prove to be an interesting personality detector! Professor Chris Idzkowski has studied six of the most common sleep positions including fetus, log, yearner, soldier, freefall, and starfish. His research has shown that each of these positions is linked to a certain personality type. In an article for BBC News Idzkowski says, “We are all aware of our body language when we are awake but this is the first time we have been able to see what our subconscious posture says about us.” Want to find out what your sleeping position reveals about you?

Photo from BBC News

1. Fetus – Sleepers of this position are tough on the outside, sensitive at heart, emotional, and shy at first though they relax quickly. This is the most common sleep position.
2. Log – Reveals an easy going, social person who likes being in the popular crowd, very trusting of strangers, and at times gullible.
3. Yearner – Generally has an open nature, can be suspicious, and slow to make up their minds.
4. Soldier – People who sleep in this position are sometimes quiet and reserved, and tend to set high standards for themselves and others.
5. Freefall – Often outgoing and brash people, but also nervy and thin-skinned, usually don’t like criticism or extreme situations.
6. Starfish – Make good friends, are excellent listeners, offer help when necessary, and don’t like to be the center of attention.

Most of us spend the majority of our time asleep in one of these sleeping positions; however some people toss and turn throughout the night. If you’re a wiggle worm while you sleep, your body is probably not getting the good night’s rest that it needs. Caffeine, large meals, alcohol, uncomfortable bedding, unfamiliar surroundings, noise and stress are all common factors that can cause movement throughout the night. So be conscious of those factors or else you might not wake up as refreshed and energized as desired.