Why Sleeping on Your Left Side Might Be Better Than You Think

We all have our favorite sleeping positions—but did you know that the way you sleep could be affecting your health more than you realize? While side sleeping is a go-to for many, the left side, in particular, may offer some surprising benefits. From improving digestion to easing back pain, your sleep posture might just be the wellness tweak you didn’t know you needed.

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The Surprising Benefits of Sleeping on Your Left Side

💤 Eases Back Pain

Sleeping on your stomach can put unnecessary pressure on your spine. In contrast, sleeping on your side helps maintain proper spinal alignment, especially in the lower back. It's a great way to reduce morning aches and stiffness.

😴 Reduces Snoring

Snoring happens more frequently when lying on your back, as your tongue and soft palate can slide backward and block the airway. Side sleeping, especially on the left side, keeps the airways open and helps reduce snoring—a plus for anyone with sleep apnea.

🍽️ Aids Digestion

Since the stomach sits on the left side of the body, lying on that side can help gravity assist with the digestion process. It may relieve bloating, heartburn, and constipation.

🧠 Supports Brain Health

Emerging research suggests that side sleeping may help the brain flush out waste through the glymphatic system. This could potentially reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. (More studies are needed to confirm this in humans.)

🤰 Improves Circulation in Pregnancy

For pregnant women, sleeping on the left side promotes better blood flow to the placenta. It also keeps pressure off the liver and major veins, ensuring proper circulation.

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How to Train Yourself to Sleep on Your Side

Want to make the switch to side sleeping but find yourself rolling back? Try these tips:

• Invest in the right pillow: Choose a firm pillow that supports your neck and matches your collarbone structure.
• Upgrade your mattress: A slightly softer mattress helps cushion your shoulders and hips without losing support.
• Use support pillows: Place one between your knees to align your hips and another to hug for upper body support.
• Try body pillows: They keep your posture stable and prevent turning.
• Sew a tennis ball to your shirt’s back: It discourages rolling onto your back during sleep.
• Use the couch temporarily: The narrow space naturally limits your sleeping position to the side.

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Drawbacks of Side Sleeping (And How to Fix Them)

Side sleeping isn’t perfect for everyone—especially with the wrong mattress or pillow setup.

• Shoulder and hip discomfort: A firm mattress can increase pressure on these areas, while an overly soft one may throw your spine out of alignment.
• Facial pressure: Lying on your side may worsen sinus pressure, glaucoma, or jaw tightness.

Solution: Adjust your pillow and mattress firmness and switch sides regularly to relieve pressure.

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Other Sleeping Positions: Pros and Cons

🛌 Back Sleeping

Pros:

• Relieves pain from arthritis, hip and knee issues, and bursitis
• Reduces sinus congestion

Tips:

• Place a pillow under your knees for back support
• Spread arms and legs slightly to reduce joint pressure
• Elevate your head to help with acid reflux and headaches

🙃 Stomach Sleeping

Most sleep experts recommend avoiding this position due to the strain it puts on the spine. However, if you can’t give it up:

Tips:

• Use a flat pillow (or none)
• Avoid tucking arms under your head
• Alternate head sides to prevent neck pain
• Keep both legs straight to avoid twisting your spine

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Final Thoughts

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to sleep. If you’re comfortable and pain-free, stick with what works for you. But if you’re dealing with poor sleep, pain, or digestive issues, sleeping on your left side could be the small change that makes a big difference.

Listen to your body. Adjust as needed. Sleep smarter.

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