Have you ever wondered if the way you sleep could reveal something about your personality? While it might seem ridiculous, there’s a definite connection between our sleep positions and certain aspects of our character. Research conducted by sleep psychologists and experts sheds light on this exciting relationship and potentially shows how our subconscious minds manifest while we sleep.
Even Winston Churchill needed a special two-hour nap every day so that he could carry on working through the night. He was well-known as a night owl! Or Mariah Carey, who apparently has to sleep 15 hours just so her voice can sound ‘the way I want it to’ with “20 humidifiers around my bed. Basically, it’s like sleeping in a steam room”. Professor Chris Idzikowski surveyed over 1,000 British adults to explore any potential links between sleeping position and personality.1 His findings showed intriguing links between common sleep positions and various personality traits. For instance:
1. Fetal Position
Characterized by sleeping on one’s side with knees drawn towards the chest, is the most common sleeping position. What’s interesting is that it also carries profound psychological implications. Those who sleep this way often show traits of sensitivity, introversion, and a desire for protection. This position symbolizes a subconscious want for comfort and security, mirroring a fetus in the womb. The balling up of the body reflects a desire to hide from the world and shows a need for emotional warmth and reassurance.
2. Arms-Out Side Sleeping (Yearner Position)
3. Stomach Sleeping
Stomach sleeping, especially with hands above or under the pillow, reflects a mix of sociability and vulnerability. Those favoring this sleeping position often ooze confidence and sociability on the outside, yet beneath the surface, there’s a sensitivity and desire for acceptance. The prone posture signifies a readiness to engage with the world, paired with a want for emotional security. These sleepers might be harboring insecurities and anxieties; maybe check in with them and see how they’re doing.
4. Back Sleeping
Back sleeping, while often associated with peace and relaxation, also shows a complex grouping of personality traits and health considerations. Individuals who prefer sleeping on their backs tend to have a sense of composure and self-assurance.2 This sleeping position indicates a readiness to take challenges on with poise and grace, reflecting inner confidence. However, back sleeping may worsen conditions such as sleep apnea and snoring, which means while they may be confident, they may not have the best choice of action.
5. Starfish Position
Sleeping on one’s back with arms extended up and out, like a starfish), ironically reveals a selfless and nurturing demeanor. The sleeping position that takes up the most room in bed allegedly prioritizes the well-being of others over their own comfort, symbolizing a generous and compassionate nature. The posture of the arms reflects a readiness to offer support and assistance, embodying the essence of altruism and empathy. These correlations offer intriguing glimpses into how our subconscious might influence our sleep positions and vice versa.
Interplay Between Sleep Positions and Health
Beyond personality insights, our sleep positions also impact our physical well-being. Side sleeping, for instance, is often recommended for its benefits in reducing snoring and improving digestion. Pregnant individuals, in particular, may benefit from left-side sleeping to enhance blood flow and alleviate heartburn. Back sleeping can exacerbate conditions like sleep apnea, emphasizing the importance of knowing how sleep positions affect health.
