When it comes to sleep, nothing is more important than getting a healthy amount of rest. Sleep is supposed to not only replenish your energy, but also give your physical body a good amount of relaxation as well. If you’ve had a particularly difficult day, it’s great to be able to unwind and give your body time to repair itself.
Our Sleep MD experts know better than anyone how important a good night’s sleep is. Even more so, we know how terrible it can feel to have a bad night’s sleep.
There are many things that can affect your body if you sleep in an uncomfortable position. While scientists are still researching the different sleep patterns that can help you to be the most comfortable and rested, there are several things about using pillows that your sleep doctor in Manhattan wants you to know. Whether you are pro-pillow or anti-pillow, there are ways to achieve the perfect comfort level while looking for the best options possible.
The Drastic Effects of Sleep Deprivation
It’s no secret what sleep deprivation can do to your body. It can get so bad that it can affect your ability to perform small, everyday tasks. You will feel sapped of energy, unable to utilize your full strength and skill. Your talents may be going to waste if you don’t feel well enough to use them in the way that you know you can.
Quality sleep is the key to a quality life. The pillows you sleep on have a huge influence on how well you sleep each night. So, the question is: Should we sleep with a pillow? Or should we forget about the fluffy softness that cradles our heads?
Here are some pros and cons of each option.
Using Pillows: Pros and Cons
Thick or soft pillows are great for keeping our heads comfortable while we sleep. However, pillows are only really useful in the ideal position. And if you’re someone who tends to toss and turn in your sleep, you may be forfeiting that perfect position many times throughout the night.
Our sleep doctor in Manhattan understands how that small shift in position on a pillow can cause detriment to the neck and spine. In fact, research shows that stacking pillows or having too many thick pillows can actually stifle the stretching of the neck, causing you to engage your muscles more and cause strain. If you do not have the perfect pillow, it may be difficult to sustain a consistent sleeping position throughout the night.
So, is it time to say goodbye to your trusted old pillows? The following information may help you make this decision.
Getting Rid of Pillows: Pros and Cons
There is a surprising number of benefits to sleeping without a pillow. While it may take some time to get used to sleeping this way, the long-term results really show. For example, not using a pillow allows your spine and back to stretch out fully, which actually relieves strain and gives the body a chance to relax.
When you use a pillow, your body does not get this opportunity to extend, making your spine and neck feel strained.
Likewise, pressing your face into a pillow all night may actually cause skin issues. If you suffer from oily skin or acne, compressing it into the folds of a pillow does not help at all. Instead, when you sleep without a pillow, your skin and face are free to properly circulate and get enough oxygen.
It’s overall better to get rid of dirt, grime, germs, and sweat that collects on your pillow every night. You might be surprised how well your body rests without the assistance of a fluffy pillow. Feel it out and see what works best for you!
Sleep Doctor in Manhattan
At Sleep MD NYC, there are several ways to determine whether or not you are getting a good night’s sleep. It’s important to understand how important your comfort is while you sleep, as it can work wonders on your body during the day. Whether you decide to do away with your pillows, or compromise with what you have, make sure it’s the best decision for you. To schedule a sleep assessment or consultation with our sleep doctor in Manhattan, contact us online or give us a call at (212) 661-7077 for further assistance!
