Asger Risom
Five practical tips to make face-up sleep your new normal
Sleeping on your back can offer real benefits, from easing pressure on joints to reducing facial creases. But for many, it doesn’t come naturally.
Whether it’s your mattress sinking too much, your pillow being too puffy, or your arms feeling awkward, becoming a habitual back sleeper requires intention — and a few smart tweaks to your setup.
While this position isn’t ideal for everyone — especially those who are pregnant or dealing with sleep apnea — it can support spinal alignment, relieve sinus pressure, and even help reduce morning headaches. Here’s how to make it a habit, without fighting your body every night.
1. Choose a Supportive Mattress
A soft, plush mattress might feel cozy at first, but if it causes your hips or lower back to sink, it can sabotage your back-sleeping efforts.
A firm, even surface helps keep your spine aligned and prevents muscles from overcompensating through the night. If replacing your mattress isn’t an option, sleeping on the floor with some cushioning is a surprisingly effective short-term workaround.
2. Adjust Neck Support Carefully
Back sleepers need less head elevation than side sleepers. If your pillow props your head too high, it may throw off your alignment and trigger tension headaches.
A simple rolled-up towel under the neck can often do the trick, especially if you’re on a budget. There are also wedge pillows available, such as the InteVision or MedSlant, that gently elevate the head without creating awkward angles.
3. Add Pillows Under Knees or Lower Back
If your lower back feels strained, or you find yourself turning over mid-sleep, placing a pillow under your knees can help.
This adjustment eases spinal tension and promotes stability. Specialized half-moon or lumbar pillows can offer tailored support, though even flat, stacked pillows might suffice if chosen carefully.
4. Relax and Spread Out
Back sleeping doesn’t mean lying perfectly still with arms at your sides. Stiff, rigid positioning can create discomfort that disrupts your sleep.
Instead, let your limbs rest naturally — spread out your arms and legs slightly to distribute your weight. Gentle nighttime stretching or yoga may also help loosen tight hips and ease you into a more relaxed position.
5. Use Pillows as a Gentle Barrier
If you tend to roll over during the night, try building a “pillow fortress” around you. This soft barrier won’t stop you entirely, but it will nudge your body back toward stillness without discomfort. It’s also a polite boundary if you share a bed — no need to sew tennis balls into pajamas to stay on track.
And If It Doesn’t Stick, That’s OK
Back sleeping isn’t for everyone — and that’s completely fine. The goal is restful, supported sleep, not perfection.
On nights when you struggle with digestion or insomnia, switching to your side might be the better call. Just avoid stomach sleeping when possible, as it tends to place the most strain on your body.
With consistency, the right gear, and patience, sleeping on your back can become second nature. But remember: the best position is the one that helps you wake up rested and pain-free.
Source: Healthline