Sleep Hygiene refers to the “prep work” that goes into people’s bedtime routines. This can extend to things like not watching TV in bed to brushing teeth and slathering on some moisturizer. Keeping to a strict routine, going to sleep and waking up at the same time every day and or having a sleep environment that is cozy and comfy. One sure way to ensure your sleeping space is the most welcoming and calming it can be, is to make sure your pillow feels supportive but also gentle enough to accommodate your sleeping position.
4. Pillow too Soft
Credit: Shutterstock
A pillow that’s too soft may cause a strained neck and pain in the shoulders or back, as well as frequent headaches. One major factor for this is that without enough support, the head may “tilt” to compensate. While pain anywhere in the body is incredibly uncomfortable, it’s not the only example of the adverse health effects. A pillow that isn’t supportive enough can also inhibit proper function of the circulatory system. This means that it can cut off or decrease blood circulation, further impacting parts of the body, such as the nervous and respiratory systems.
5. Pillow too Inflexible
Credit: Shutterstock
In the same way that a pillow without adequate support can cause discomfort to the neck and back, so too can one that provides too much support. One that is nearly solid and doesn’t conform to the shape of the sleeper’s body, also cause the neck to become strained, especially as some people are restless sleepers. “If your neck is bent in any way for an extended period of time, you’ll get uncomfortable,” explains a physical therapist at Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital by the name of Matthew O’Rourke.
