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Sleep is very important for humans not only for physical but also for mental well-being. How, however, should we get into bed so that it is as beneficial as possible for our body and mind? It happens to all of us.
Although we have had a long sleep, we feel as if we had partied the whole night. So what is the right recipe for quality and healthy sleep?
According to several studies the key to healthy and quality sleep is sleeping on the left side. This idea comes from Ayurveda, a system of health practices that is recognized by the World Health Organization.
Ayurveda originates from India and its main goal is overall prevention against various diseases and health problems. Sleeping on the left side, according to Ayurveda, brings improvements in health regarding digestion, back pain, or heart disease.
1. Lymphatic system
The left side of our body is the lymphatic side. According to Ayurveda, but also Western medicine, sleeping on the left side supports the body’s cleansing via the lymphatic system from impurities and toxins. Conversely, sleeping on the right side slows the activity of the lymphatic system.
2. Digestion
The position on the left side is completely the most natural for our digestive system. Thanks to gravity, digested food more easily moves into the large intestine during the night. In addition, the left side is natural for the placement of the stomach and pancreas, which work somewhat more efficiently in that position.
3. Heart
Again gravity plays the most important role. When sleeping on your left side you passively help your heart distribute blood throughout the body. Because of gravity the heart has an easier task when releasing blood and thus you slightly lower your blood pressure during the night.
4. Pregnancy
Sleeping, and even relaxing, on the left side is particularly beneficial for pregnant women. Again, blood circulation plays the main role. The left-side position improves blood flow to the uterus, kidneys, and also directly to the fetus. This position also eliminates the possibility that the uterus would press on the important liver.
5. Heartburn
Gastroenterologists have discovered a connection between sleeping or resting on the left side and heartburn. Due to the natural position of the stomach when lying on the left, this position is beneficial even for such problems. If you get heartburn next time, definitely try it. Just 10 minutes of resting on the left side and everything should improve.
6. Back pain
If your spine often aches, try changing your sleep routine and start sleeping on your left side. Even though it has no special advantages, one can still be found. The point is that if you change your sleeping position, the pressure on your spine will decrease and it will properly repay you.
If you have any of the health problems we mentioned here, try this simple trick. After all, trying it won’t cost you anything, right?
