Sleeping Positions

Last updated: December 2020
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We spend a third of our lives in bed and most of us have a favourite position.

According to some reports, the sleeping position you adopt in bed can tell a lot about your personality. But do you agree? Here are the most common sleep positions and their meanings.

Foetus

You sleep in the baby position on your side with your legs curled up. According to a survey performed by sleep specialist Chris Idzikowski, author of the book, Learn to Sleep Well, 41 percent of all sleepers use this sleep position.

Meaning: You appear hard faced on the outside but on the inside you are sensitive.

Log

Rests on one side, legs extended straight and arms in place. It’s a good position to keep the neck and back in alignment.

Meaning: Sociable and laid-back, you are willing to accept and welcome strangers.

Soldier

Sleeping on your back, with arms by your sides. This position can alleviate symptoms of back and neck pain as well as acid reflux. However it can lead to snoring.

Meaning: You have a private and reserved nature and are a bit of a loner.

Starfish

On your back with legs stretched out and arms stretched above the head. It is classed as the least popular sleep style.

Meaning: This bed hogger is an open person, a good listener and a great friend, though you’re not keen on being in the limelight.

Yearner

Snoozes on one side but arms stretched out in front. Try sleeping on your left side with a pillow for support.

Meaning: A suspicious person with a very rational approach to life.

Freefaller

Sleeps on the stomach, head to one side, arms wrapped behind the pillow. It’s a good position if you snore and promotes good digestion. However, it’s not idealdue to the pressure it puts on the neck and back area.

Meaning: Open, playful and fun personality. Can appear brash and may be secretly anxious.

However don’t get too hung up on how you sleep in bed! While you may think you sleep in a certain position, the reality is you move between 10 and 12 times per hour – meaning most of us toss and turn as many as 60 or 70 times a night – and more than half of these movements involving major changes in position!