Here’s why sleeping on your right side might be worse for your health

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“If you’re one of these [people who tosses and turns], do something before you go to bed to offload your stress,” he says. Eliminating your stress entirely is easier said than done, but there are small steps you can take to ease yourself into a more restful state. Instead of scrolling through a screen emanating blue light that might compromise your circadian rhythms and ultimately suppress sleep-inducing melatonin, Dr. Hayden recommends reading a book. “Let your mind go blank, or to a time or place that is relaxing and comfortable. Try a warm bath or shower to relax,” he says.

Look: You’re not doomed for a life of pinched nerves and sore muscles if you’re unable to sleep on your side, and only on your side. At the end of the day, all our experts agree that comfort is most important. Other postures like sleeping on your back can also be beneficial if executed properly. If you’re going to sleep on your back, Petrocco-Napuli recommends placing a pillow under your head and under both of your knees in order to support and level the spine. Feel free to experiment with exact pillow placement so as to support the natural curvature of your unique spine.

This might all seem like a lot to think about and remember before you’re supposed to relax and ultimately fall asleep, but rest assured: with a proper pillow, a firm mattress, and an aligned spine, you’ll be well on your way to sleeping soundly — and waking up relatively pain-free. If pain does persist, speak to your doctor about any underlying issues.