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Did you know that the way you sleep can not only have an effect on the quality of your sleep but also provide insight into what you’re like as a person?
Sleeping positions vary from person to person. Some prefer the fetal position, whereas others prefer sleeping on their front. As you’re about to see, there are a range of positions, and each has its own associated personality characteristics.
Below, you’ll find six sleeping positions and their meanings. So, if you’re interested in seeing what yours means, check out our list of the most common sleeping position names and characteristics, and then have a read of our guide on the best sleeping positions for posture, or even what your couple's sleeping position says about your relationship!
1. The fetal
According to sleep.org and a range of other publications, 41% of adults sleep in the fetal position. It has a range of benefits, which include aiding circulation and relieving back problems, and it works great for pregnancy too!
In terms of this sleeping position meaning, individuals who sleep in the fetal position are found to be more friendly, sensitive, and pleasant. However, another batch of evidence also suggests these sleepers can have a hard, emotional shell that is difficult to penetrate. Deep down, fetal sleepers are big old softies!
2. The yearner
The yearner is another side sleeping position that is popular with many individuals. This position involves sleeping sideways with your arms stretched out in front of your body. According to research, 13% of the population sleep like this.
If you’re wondering what your sleeping position says about you, yearners are said to be open-minded, suspicious, and stubborn, especially when it comes to sticking with one decision and not considering other options.
3. The freefaller
Moving on to people sleeping on their front, we have the freefallers. This position involves laying on your front with your arms above your head. The arms can either be placed on top of the pillow or underneath. Approximately 7% of the population sleep like this.
Sleeping on your front has its benefits, including minimising the risk of snoring. However, it also has a number of problems associated with neck and back posture. If you’re going to sleep in this position, make sure you have a flat pillow that doesn’t skew your neck upwards too much.
Those who sleep in this position are also thought to be more likely to speak their mind and be social and outgoing. However, free-fallers don’t tend to take criticism too kindly, so try your best to be nice to them!
4. The soldier
If you sleep on your back, there is a high likelihood you’re sleeping like a soldier. This position involves resting on your back with your arms straight by your side – kind of how you’d see a soldier standing in formation.
Around 8% of the population like to sleep this way. But despite aiding posture and neck support, back sleepers are prone to experiencing the worst sleeping patterns and risk snoring more than others.
If you’re interested in the personality characteristics you can draw from this, you’ll be interested to know that soldier sleepers are generally quiet and keep to themselves. However, these individuals are also likely to expect a lot from both themselves and other people.
5. The log
This doesn’t have the most flattering name, but the log is another side-sleeping position used by 15% of the population. This position involves you sleeping like… well… a log. If in this position, you’ll be resting on your side with your arms in their natural position.
This position has been linked to improved digestion, reduced snoring, and reduced heartburn. So, despite looking like a log, and being one of the least flattering sleeping position names, it definitely comes with its benefits.
If you sleep in this position, it says a lot about your personality. In general, you’re likely to be more social and laidback and more willing to welcome strangers into your life. Those who sleep in the log position tend to be the most trustworthy people as well.
6. The starfish
Much like a starfish, this position means you tend to take over the bed, as you lie flat on your back, and have your arms and legs splayed out in the manner of a starfish!
This particular sleeping position’s meaning is that you’re a true friend, and while you might not want to be the centre of attention, you value your relationships, are great at listening, and are quick to help people in need. It’s thought that around 33% of the general population sleep in this position at some point in their life.
Find the best mattresses for your sleeping position
Sleeping patterns differ a lot across the general population, and each has its own association with various personality characteristics.
Hopefully, you've discovered what your sleeping position says about you, and the results are accurate! The next step is to find your perfect mattress for a great night’s sleep – whether you’re looking for the best mattresses for side sleepers, or mattresses for front sleepers, we offer a range of sizes, styles and materials, so you’re guaranteed to find the perfect one for you.
