For some, troubled sleep can be caused by a variety of reasons, often requiring substantial lifestyle changes. For others, the solution may be as simple as changing their pillow.
The importance of proper alignment
When you sleep, it’s important that your head, neck, back and lower lumbar region are properly supported and held in alignment. Mattresses that offer this support have orthopaedically correct design.
If your spine’s alignment is incorrect, this may cause pain, soreness and tension. The muscles surrounding the spine may become stressed as they try to correct the alignment, resulting in discomfort and back pain. This logic extends to your pillow; it plays an important part in maintaining your spinal alignment.
What to look for in a pillow
Choose a pillow that works with your mattress to support your head and neck. They should be aligned with the rest of your body. Note that the right pillow for you may be different than that of your partner — it depends on your body and preferred sleeping position. For example, if you sleep on your side most of the time, you will need a pillow with more height than someone who mostly sleeps on their back.
How to choose your pillow
When trying to find a neutral position, think about the position your head and spine are in when you are standing straight up and looking forward. No matter whether you prefer sleeping on your back or on your side, you‘ll want to be in that same neutral position. The best way to find out whether a pillow will properly support you is to test it for yourself.
When trying out pillows made from different material, you’ll notice the difference in materials and how responsive or non-responsive they are. For example, pillows made from wool, cotton and latex provide firmer support, while down is softer, and memory foam provides more conformance. Try out each option to find the best fit for your unique needs.
Proper support means more restful nights of sleep
Many people invest in a high-quality mattress but overlook the importance of having the right pillow. For the best result, you need both.
When it comes to finding the right mattress or pillow for your needs, visit your local Sealy Posturepedic retailer and let a sleep expert help you find the right solution. You can also check out Sealy’s online mattress selection tool that recommends your ideal mattress based on your unique sleep profile.
Staying properly aligned in bed will help you attain deeper, more restful nights of sleep so you can enjoy your days with more energy and less pain. Don’t let something as simple as your pillow be the reason you can’t sleep; Sealy Posturepedic pillows are here to help.
