Body pillows are large, cuddly sleep aids that are frequently referred to as pregnant pillows because they support the entire body. They are beneficial for people other than simply pregnant women, though. When used properly, the pillows reduce pressure points, back pain, and sleep apnea.
You might not know which body pillows to pick or how to utilize them correctly given their various sizes and shapes. Understanding how to sleep with body pillow properly is essential to getting the most out of it. Body pillows are designed to provide more support for your head, neck, and back than a regular pillow can. It may seem difficult to position your head, arms, and legs if you’ve never used a body pillow before.
Read on to learn everything you need to know about body pillows in our thorough guide and get the rest you deserve.
Body Pillow Types and Their Applications
Body pillows come in a variety of shapes to suit diverse demands, body types, and bed sizes. Although cylindrical and rectangular pillows are the most typical, you may also find body pillows in the shapes of a J, U, or C. The amount of room a body pillow will take up is a crucial issue to take into account when making your selection. Smaller beds work well with cylindrical and rectangular pillows, but a queen- or king-sized bed is necessary for U-shaped pillows to function efficiently.
1) U-Shaped
One of the biggest body pillows on the market is the U-shaped pillow. For pregnant women, it’s the best cushion form because it supports the head, neck, and back.
To avoid back sleeping, place your head on the U’s curve and hug one of its arms while supporting your back with the other. A bed pillow and two body pillows placed together form a U-shaped pillow.
2) Rectangular
Body pillows in a rectangular shape are typically available online or in bedding stores. Most persons with ordinary heights can use the regular size, which is 20 inches by 54 inches. Longer pillows may be necessary for people over 6 feet tall to cover the space between their chest and ankles.
To take pressure off your shoulder, wrap your arm around the cushion. Additionally, put the pillow between your knees to keep your spine in a neutral position. Do not rest your entire leg on the body pillow as this could result in back pain.
3) Cylindrical
When you don’t have much space on your bed, these small pillows are a great choice. Despite taking up less room than rectangle pillows, cylindrical pillows nonetheless fulfill the very same function that is to take tension off the shoulders. You can select one depending on your height because they come in various sizes.
Place the pillow between your knees and encircle it with your arm for maximum comfort
Material Used As Fill In Body Pillows
The fill material should be taken into consideration while selecting the best body pillow because it affects the cushion’s sturdiness and breathability. You can find down, memory foam, polyester, latex, or air in body pillows.
1) Down
The term “down” describes the delicate feathers that can be found on ducks and geese’s belly and beneath their wings. Although this natural material is warm and soft, it might not be a good choice for people who are prone to allergies.
2) Polyester
Polyester is the most affordable fill type and is a synthetic material that is frequently utilized. The amount of fill filled into the pillow determines how firm it is.
3) Memory Foam
Memory foam pillows squish into your curves in response to body heat. If you need a more breathable fill choice, pick shredded memory foam because the memory foam’s dense structure, which relieves pressure, also traps heat.
4) Latex
Opt for all-natural latex if an environment friendly fill is your first objective. Latex foam is resilient and conforms to your head and neck to give you enduring support.
5) Air
Air pillows are cheap, but they might not offer support over the long term. A leak in the air can result in sagging and eventually cause neck pain.
Benefits Of A Body Pillow
1) Pressure Points are Released
Since your shoulders and hips support the weight of your complete body while you sleep on your side, pressure points may develop in these places. The stress is relieved by hugging a pillow while sleeping, allowing you to lie comfortably on your side.
2) Eliminates Sleep Apnea
In order to prevent sleep apnea and snoring, it is best to sleep on your side or with your head elevated, which can be achieved using a body pillow.
3) Recovery After Surgery
Another situation where having trouble sleeping is after surgery. You’re probably already experiencing pain from the procedure, and you might also be wearing a cast, bandages, or other recovery equipment that makes it difficult to find a comfortable resting position. Body pillow helps in recovery and reduces pain.
4) Lowers Back Pain
By putting a pillow between your knees, you may maintain a more natural and comfortable position for your body.
5) Relaxes Your Mind
Your adrenal glands release the stress hormone cortisol into your bloodstream when you are anxious or agitated. Your blood pressure and heart rate increase as a result of cortisol, which has an impact on your sleep.
Uses For Body Pillows
Although we’ve already discussed the conventional way to utilize a body pillow while you sleep, there are a few additional key applications you can make of one at night. They consist of:
Putting It Under Your Back:
Attention back sleepers, this ones for you. The body pillow can also be placed behind your back, diagonally, so that your hips, legs, and arms are on top of it as you sleep. This technique relieves pressure on the shoulders and hips.
Resting with one leg next to the pillow is similar to the first option mentioned above because the pillow is being held in both of your hands. But the main difference is that in this one, you don’t put the cushion between your legs. Instead of tucking the bottom leg under, sleep with it straight down the edge of the pillow.
FAQs:
What is a Body Pillow used For?
A body pillow is a large cushion that side sleepers generally use at night to feel more comfortable and relieve pain.
Is a Body Pillow Good to Sleep with?
Yes, using a body pillow while you sleep helps relieve pressure points and lower your risk of developing back and neck problems by giving you an additional arm and leg support beyond what your mattress can offer.
Why do I like Sleeping with a Body Pillow?
People typically prefer using a body pillow because it helps the body to align their head, neck, and back regardless of their sleeping position and by relieving pressure on their shoulders and hips to prevent aches and pains in the morning.
What’s the Point of a Body Pillow?
A body pillow is used to relieve pressure points and enhance spinal alignment.
How to Sleep with a Body Pillow for Back Pain?
To use a body pillow while sleeping, lay it lengthwise on your bed. Once you’re lying on your side, place the pillow between your legs and position your upper leg so that your legs are stacked parallel to one another.
Conclusion:
A body pillow can be used for a variety of purposes, such as to relieve discomfort, offer support, or just because it makes sleeping more comfortable. Whatever your motivation, it’s critical to choose a body pillow that will improve your quality of sleep. You shouldn’t disrupt your sleep because it’s crucial by getting up from pain and discomfort.