These days people have a stressful and hectic lifestyle, and now more than ever, there is a great need for rest and recuperation at night. However, sleep eludes most people, as they don’t put any thought into creating the perfect sleep environment. So, it becomes an absolute challenge to get a good night’s sleep. One area where most sleepers neglect to pay attention to is basic sleep essentials like choosing proper pillows and cushions for sleep. How do you select these? Continue reading to learn how to choose the perfect pillow that supports your sleep.
Sleep Positions And Pillow Requirements
When choosing the best pillow for sleep, it is important to consider your sleep position. How you sleep determines the level of support the body needs from the pillow. It also helps determine the ideal height and firmness level. There is rarely one best option for all sleepers. This section will help you find your ideal pillow requirements based on sleep position and aid in making the right decisions.
Back Sleepers
The best pillow position for a back sleeper is to have the head and neck on the pillow and not the shoulders. The cervical spine should be parallel to the mattress, and the head must be in a relaxed position. The neck should be in a neutral position. To keep your head and neck in this position, you should:
- Choose a medium-firm pillow that allows the head to be supported and to align with your spine. Make sure it does not flatten out with time or replace it if it flattens out.
- Choose a medium loft and super soft pillows to relieve pressure on the neck and shoulders. If the pillow is lofty, the head is craned upwards, which consequently leads to neck discomfort. On the other hand, if the pillow is thin, it won’t give the required support, which will ultimately result in poor spinal alignment.
Side Sleepers
The shoulder adds more distance between the head and the mattress and this means you will need a little loft to keep the head and neck in line with the spine. So side sleepers should:
- Choose a pillow that has a high loft to prop the head so that the spine is in neutral alignment. A lofty cushion also removes pressure on the shoulder and ensures that the entire body weight is not on the shoulders.
- Look for a firm support pillow, as a soft pillow allows your head to sink in and disrupts the spinal alignment.
- Side sleepers can add a pillow between their knees and keep their legs bent slightly to promote better hip alignment and reduce spinal stress.
Stomach Sleepers
For a stomach sleeper, finding the perfect cushion is tricky. Most sleep experts do not recommend this position, as it puts strain on the lower back and neck. However, if this is your preferred position, a low loft soft support pillow is the best, as it supports the spine’s natural curve. A firmer cushion is not recommended as it builds pressure on the back.
Combination Sleepers
If you transition between stomach, back and side sleeping positions, then you are a combination sleeper. You will need a pillow that offers support and comfort in various positions. Choose a medium-high loft pillow that is a balance of support and comfort. You can also consider adjustable fill or memory foam contour pillows, as these can be customized for your changing sleep positions.
Types Of Pillows
Based On The Fill
- Memory Foam: These are some of the most popular types of pillows. These pillows are made from viscoelastic polyurethane foam. The term memory foam was coined as the pillow contours to the body. It offers good neck support and is great as a sleeping pillow.
- Latex Pillow: Natural latex is derived from the sap of the latex tree. Latex pillows are slightly soft compared to memory foam pillows and also a little expensive but durable and long-lasting.
- Down And Feathers: These are an opulent choice and the fill is made from goose and duck down and feathers. They are made of synthetic materials but are durable.
- Cotton Pillow: These are fully organic and great for those who want pillows that are comfortable and breathable. The only drawback is that it goes out of shape quickly.
Comfort And Support
- Back support: If you suffer from back stiffness due to long sitting hours, then back support is the best option. Choose a memory foam pillow, as it provides exceptional support and comfort. It contours to the neck and head and promotes spinal alignment. It suits all sleep positions. If you have chronic back pain, choose a medicinal pillow, as these alleviate neck and shoulder pressure while helping maintain proper spinal alignment and providing proper comfort and support.
- Luxurious support: This uses microfiber as the fill material and preserves its shape. It is soft and comfortable and allows you to have a restful sleep. But these pillows distort easily and hence are not a durable choice.
- Head and neck support: These are pillows that offer good head and neck support. These pillows can be made from hollow fibre or memory foam and are comfortable for sleeping. They provide good head, neck and spine support and are great for those who suffer from neck pain.
- Contour pillow: These are designed with a contour shape and a slight dip to adapt to the curve of the neck and upper spine. By allowing the head to dip into the hollow, they support the neck and help maintain natural spinal alignment. Choose a memory foam contour pillow for the best results.
Choose Pillows And Cushions Wisely To Get A Good Night’s Sleep
There are various pillow options available. But choose pillows and cushions that provide good support and prevent discomfort. Check out pillows and cushions from reputable dealers like Wakefit to make the right purchase.
