Getting a good night’s rest can do wonders for the body and for the mind. People who get their regular 8 hours tend to function better throughout the day. The different positions that people sleep in can also have an impact on our health. Here is a look at some of the most common sleeping positions and just how they impact on your body.

1.    On your back, arms at sides: This common sleeping position is generally considered to be the best for spine health and it’s good for your neck, too, as long as you don’t use too many pillows. It is believed however, that people who sleep on their back snore more than those in any other position and sleep apnea has been linked to those who sleep on their backs.

2.    Face down: If you sleep on your stomach it can tend to improve digestion. However because you are lying with your face to the pillow this tends to lead to you tilting your face in one direction or the other. Doing this causes a lot of strain on the neck. Those of us who sleep face down can also suffer from back pain. This is due to the fact that the curve of the spine is not supported when sleeping in this position.

3.    Foetal position: This is where a person sleeps curled up into a ball with their knees drawn up and your chin tilted down.  This may be comfortable for some but over time it can cause damage to the neck and back and can also restrict breathing. It can however be beneficial to anyone who has major problems snoring or to pregnant women.

4.    On the right side: For those who sleep on their side, which side you sleep on can make a big difference. It is believed that those of us who sleep on the right side can worsen heartburn and those of us who sleep on the left side can put strain on internal organs like the liver, lungs, and stomach.

5.    On your back, arms up: This position can be good for your back. Whether you have your arms up around your pillow or not, sleeping on your back may also help to prevent facial wrinkles and skin breakouts.