Understanding various sleep positions can help you better understand how to improve your sleep patterns. The sleep position you choose, directly affects your quality of sleep. Let’s take a look at the best and worst positions for sleeping.

What is the worst position?

For one person, sleeping on the back might be the best, while another might be a side sleeper. To determine the best and worst position for you, simply sleep. 

However, if you snore or suffer from sleep apnea, back sleeping is a big no-no. By sleeping on your back you may obstruct your airway, so try to sleep on your side to open your airway back up. An oral appliance will help with this as well. 

What is the best position? 

If you suffer from sleep apnea, side sleeping may be the best choice because it helps keep your airways open. Research suggests that sleeping on your left side can relieve heartburn symptoms, while right side sleeping makes them worse. Remember to go with the flow and allow your body to fall into its intended position. 

And, yes, your mattress does matter—if it is worn and damaged, you could negatively impact your quality of sleep. No one stays in one position all night—doing so is bad for circulation—and it varies from person to person.