What Side Are You Supposed to Sleep On Unveiling the Wisdom of Rest.

What side are u supposed to sleep on – What side are you supposed to sleep on? This question, seemingly simple, unlocks a profound journey into the very fabric of our well-being. We often drift off to sleep without a second thought, yet the position we choose holds a secret language, whispering tales of comfort, health, and spiritual alignment. Misconceptions abound, painting a distorted picture of what truly nurtures our bodies and souls during the sacred hours of slumber.

This exploration invites you to transcend these myths and embrace the wisdom inherent in mindful rest, understanding how your sleep posture can profoundly affect your physical and spiritual journey.

This deep dive delves into the intricate dance between sleep position and bodily function, guiding you towards the preferred posture: side sleeping. We’ll unpack the myriad benefits of this gentle embrace, revealing how it can alleviate common ailments and enhance your overall vitality. From the nuances of fetal to log positions, we’ll compare and contrast, equipping you with the knowledge to make informed choices.

Further, we’ll explore the significance of left versus right side sleeping, and how to comfortably maintain the recommended position, especially during pregnancy. Practical tips and illustrative examples will illuminate your path, empowering you to cultivate a sleep sanctuary where healing and rejuvenation flourish.

Introduction: The Significance of Sleep Position

The way we position ourselves during sleep is often overlooked, yet it plays a crucial role in our overall health and well-being. Many common beliefs about sleep positions are based on anecdotal evidence or simply incorrect. Choosing the right sleep position can significantly impact everything from our breathing and digestion to the health of our spine and skin. Understanding the effects of different sleep postures is key to optimizing our nightly rest and improving our quality of life.The correct sleep position is not just a matter of comfort; it directly influences several bodily functions.

This choice can alleviate pain, reduce snoring, and even contribute to better cognitive function. Choosing the right sleep position is an investment in your health.

Impact of Sleep Position on Bodily Functions

The position we adopt during sleep affects various physiological processes. Different positions can either facilitate or hinder these functions.

Breathing: Sleep position significantly influences the respiratory system. For instance, sleeping on your back can exacerbate snoring and sleep apnea due to the tongue and soft palate collapsing into the airway. Sleeping on your side often helps to keep the airway open, improving airflow.
Digestion: The digestive process is also affected by sleep position. Sleeping on your left side is often recommended as it may aid in digestion by allowing gravity to assist in moving food through the intestines. This position can also help to prevent acid reflux.
Spinal Health: Maintaining proper spinal alignment during sleep is critical for preventing back pain and other musculoskeletal issues. Sleeping on your back, with a pillow supporting your head and neck, can help maintain spinal alignment. Side sleeping can also be beneficial, but it’s important to use a pillow that supports the head and neck in a neutral position.
Circulation: Sleep position can influence blood flow. Certain positions, like sleeping on your stomach, can put pressure on blood vessels and potentially restrict circulation. Sleeping on your side generally promotes better circulation throughout the body.
Skin Health: The position you sleep in can affect your skin’s health. Sleeping on your face can lead to wrinkles over time. Sleeping on your back can help to minimize the pressure on your face and reduce the formation of wrinkles.

Sleeping on Your Side

Sleeping on your side is widely considered the most beneficial sleep position for a variety of reasons, ranging from physical comfort to overall health. It’s a natural posture for many, offering a comfortable and adaptable way to rest. Understanding the nuances of side sleeping, including its variations and their respective advantages and disadvantages, can help you optimize your sleep quality and potentially mitigate certain health concerns.

Benefits of Side Sleeping

Side sleeping offers several significant advantages for overall health and well-being. It’s often recommended by healthcare professionals for its positive impact on various bodily functions.

Improved Spinal Alignment: Sleeping on your side, particularly with a pillow that supports your head and neck, can help maintain a neutral spine. This minimizes strain on the back and neck muscles, reducing the likelihood of pain and stiffness.
Reduced Snoring and Sleep Apnea: Side sleeping can help to keep the airways open, which is particularly beneficial for individuals who snore or suffer from sleep apnea. This position prevents the tongue and soft palate from collapsing into the airway, obstructing breathing.
Enhanced Brain Health: Research suggests that side sleeping may aid in the clearance of waste products from the brain. The glymphatic system, which removes metabolic waste, functions more efficiently when sleeping on your side.
Comfort for Pregnancy: Side sleeping, especially on the left side, is often recommended for pregnant women. This position improves blood flow to the fetus and the mother’s kidneys, reducing pressure on the vena cava, a major vein that carries blood to the heart.
Reduced Acid Reflux: Side sleeping can help to reduce the symptoms of acid reflux. Gravity assists in keeping stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus.

Variations of Side Sleeping

There are several variations of side sleeping, each with its unique characteristics and potential effects. These positions are often adopted unconsciously, but understanding them can help you refine your sleep posture.

Fetal Position: This involves curling up with the knees bent and chin tucked towards the chest.
Log Position: This involves sleeping straight on your side with your arms straight down at your sides.
Yearner Position: This involves sleeping on your side with both arms stretched out in front of you.
Freefall Position (Side Variation): This involves sleeping on your side with one arm under the pillow and the other out in front.

Comparison of Side-Sleeping Variations

Each side-sleeping variation has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. This table summarizes the key considerations for each position.

Side-Sleeping Variation	Advantages	Disadvantages	Considerations
Fetal	Can be comforting and reduce snoring.	Can restrict breathing, put pressure on joints, and cause back pain if overly curled.	Consider using a supportive pillow between the knees to maintain spinal alignment.
Log	Good for spinal alignment and can reduce neck pain.	Can cause shoulder pain and is not ideal for those who snore or have sleep apnea.	Use a pillow that supports the head and neck.
Yearner	Can be comfortable and reduces snoring.	May put pressure on the shoulder and arm, potentially leading to pain.	Consider alternating arms to avoid prolonged pressure on one side.
Freefall (Side Variation)	May help reduce snoring.	Can cause neck and shoulder pain if the arm is positioned awkwardly.	Ensure the pillow supports the head and neck adequately.

Side Sleeping and Specific Health Conditions

Side sleeping, as we’ve discussed, isn’t just about comfort; it’s a position that significantly impacts our health. Beyond general well-being, the way we lie in bed can actively alleviate or exacerbate specific medical conditions. Understanding these connections empowers us to make informed choices that directly benefit our health.

Side Sleeping and Heartburn/Acid Reflux Relief

Heartburn and acid reflux are common problems stemming from stomach acid escaping into the esophagus. Side sleeping, particularly on the left side, provides a natural defense against these uncomfortable symptoms.When lying on the left side, the stomach is positioned below the esophagus, making it more difficult for stomach acid to travel upwards. This is due to the anatomical structure of the stomach and esophagus.

Side Sleeping and Sleep Apnea Benefits, What side are u supposed to sleep on

Sleep apnea, characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep, is another condition significantly impacted by sleep position. Side sleeping can be a valuable strategy in managing this condition.By sleeping on your side, the airways are less likely to be obstructed. Gravity assists in keeping the tongue and soft palate from collapsing into the back of the throat, which is a common cause of airway obstruction.

This can lead to fewer apneas (pauses in breathing) and hypopneas (shallow breaths).

Side Sleeping and Snoring Reduction

Snoring, often a precursor to sleep apnea or simply a disruptive nighttime noise, can be effectively reduced by sleeping on your side.When sleeping on your back, gravity can cause the tongue and soft tissues in the throat to collapse, narrowing the airway and leading to vibrations that we hear as snoring. Side sleeping helps prevent this.

While some say sleeping on your left side is best, a peaceful night for you is important. But what about our little ones? It’s a worry when a 3-month-old struggles to sleep, and you might find yourself searching for answers about why is my 3 month old not sleeping. Remember, whatever side you choose, finding rest for both you and your baby is the ultimate goal, so you can both enjoy a better day.

The Left Side vs. The Right Side

The position you choose to sleep in significantly impacts your health and well-being. While sleeping on your side generally offers benefits, the specific side you choose can have different effects on your body. Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of each side allows you to make an informed decision and potentially optimize your sleep posture for better health.

Comparative Analysis of Left and Right Side Sleeping

Both left and right side sleeping offer advantages over sleeping on your back or stomach. However, they differ in how they affect specific bodily functions. Consider the following points:

Left Side Sleeping: Often recommended due to its potential benefits for heart health and digestion.
Right Side Sleeping: While generally acceptable, it may pose certain drawbacks related to digestive processes.

Reasons for Recommending Left Side Sleeping

Sleeping on your left side is often considered the superior option for several physiological reasons. The left side position supports optimal functioning of the body in the following ways:

Improved Heart Health: Sleeping on the left side can alleviate pressure on the inferior vena cava, the large vein that returns blood to the heart. This allows for better blood flow and may be particularly beneficial for individuals with heart conditions.
Enhanced Lymphatic Drainage: The lymphatic system, which helps remove waste and toxins from the body, is more efficient when sleeping on the left side. The lymph nodes are concentrated on the left side, and sleeping in this position facilitates the drainage process.
Optimized Digestion: Sleeping on the left side aids digestion by allowing gravity to assist in the movement of food through the digestive tract. The stomach is positioned on the left side, and this position facilitates the efficient processing of food.

Potential Drawbacks of Right Side Sleeping

While sleeping on the right side is not inherently harmful for everyone, it can present some challenges. These are the main potential issues:

Potential for Heart Pressure: In some cases, sleeping on the right side might put slight pressure on the inferior vena cava, potentially affecting blood flow. However, this is usually less of a concern than the benefits of left-side sleeping.
Acid Reflux Concerns: For individuals prone to acid reflux, sleeping on the right side can potentially worsen symptoms. This is because the stomach’s position allows stomach acid to more easily enter the esophagus.
Digestive Difficulties: Sleeping on the right side may slow down the digestion process slightly compared to the left side, as gravity doesn’t assist as efficiently.

Side Sleeping and Pregnancy

Alright, let’s talk about a crucial aspect of sleep for expectant mothers. Pregnancy brings a whole host of changes, and how a woman sleeps is definitely one of them. The position she chooses can significantly impact both her comfort and the well-being of her developing baby. It’s a topic that deserves some serious attention, and we’ll break it down in a way that’s easy to understand.

Recommended Sleep Position for Pregnant Women

During pregnancy, the recommended sleep position is typically on the side. This is because lying on the back can compress the inferior vena cava, a major blood vessel that carries blood back to the heart. This compression can reduce blood flow to the mother and the baby. Side sleeping, especially on the left side, helps to alleviate this pressure.

Reasons for Advising Left-Side Sleeping During Pregnancy

Sleeping on the left side is often advised during pregnancy for several key reasons. It’s not just a suggestion; there’s a real biological basis for this recommendation.

Improved Blood Flow: Lying on the left side optimizes blood flow to the placenta, ensuring the baby receives a consistent supply of oxygen and nutrients. This is vital for the baby’s healthy development.
Reduced Pressure on the Inferior Vena Cava: As mentioned earlier, sleeping on the left side minimizes pressure on the inferior vena cava. This is crucial for preventing a drop in blood pressure, which can cause dizziness or lightheadedness in the mother.
Improved Kidney Function: This position can help improve kidney function, which can reduce swelling in the ankles, feet, and hands.
Better Waste Removal: It facilitates the efficient removal of waste products from both the mother and the baby.

In essence, the left-side sleeping position is all about optimizing circulation and minimizing potential complications for both the mother and the developing fetus. It’s a proactive measure designed to support a healthy pregnancy.

The American Pregnancy Association and the March of Dimes are two reliable sources that consistently recommend left-side sleeping during pregnancy.

Comfortable Maintenance of the Recommended Sleep Position During Pregnancy

Maintaining a side-sleeping position, especially as the pregnancy progresses, can present some challenges. The growing belly and other physical changes can make it difficult to find a comfortable position. However, there are several strategies that can help.

Pillows are Your Best Friend: Utilize pillows strategically. Place a pillow between your legs to keep your hips aligned and reduce pressure on your lower back. Another pillow can be placed under your belly for support. A body pillow is a great investment for this purpose.
Experiment with Different Pillow Types: Experiment with different types of pillows. Consider a pregnancy pillow, which is specifically designed to provide support for the belly and back. U-shaped or C-shaped pillows are popular choices.
Elevate Your Upper Body: Use pillows to slightly elevate your upper body. This can help with heartburn and acid reflux, which are common during pregnancy.
Listen to Your Body: While the left side is generally recommended, don’t force it if it’s causing you discomfort. Sometimes, alternating between the left and right sides is acceptable. The goal is to find a position that allows you to sleep comfortably and get adequate rest.
Gradual Adjustment: If you’re not used to sleeping on your side, gradually adjust your sleeping position. Start by sleeping on your side for short periods and gradually increase the time.

These tips aim to make side sleeping as comfortable as possible. Remember, prioritizing comfort is important. Finding a comfortable position is key to getting the rest you need during pregnancy.

Practical Tips for Side Sleepers

Sleeping on your side offers numerous benefits, but maximizing these advantages requires attention to detail. Achieving optimal side sleeping comfort and reaping the full health rewards demands a strategic approach. This involves refining your sleeping posture, selecting the right supportive tools, and potentially incorporating sleep aids.

Improving Side Sleeping Posture

Maintaining proper alignment is crucial for side sleepers to prevent aches and pains. This involves ensuring the spine remains straight and the body is well-supported.

Pillow Placement: Position your pillow to fill the space between your head and the mattress, ensuring your neck remains in a neutral position. Avoid pillows that are too thin, which can strain your neck, or too thick, which can bend your neck unnaturally.
Body Alignment: Aim to keep your hips, shoulders, and ears aligned. Imagine a straight line running from your ear to your shoulder and down to your hip. Avoid twisting your spine.
Knee Support: Consider placing a pillow between your knees. This helps to align your hips and lower back, reducing pressure on these areas.
Arm Positioning: Avoid sleeping with your arm tucked under your head, as this can compress the nerves in your shoulder and arm. Instead, try resting your arm on a pillow in front of you.
Mattress Support: Ensure your mattress provides adequate support. A mattress that is too soft may cause your body to sag, leading to spinal misalignment. A medium-firm mattress is often ideal for side sleepers.

Choosing the Right Pillow for Side Sleeping

The pillow is the cornerstone of comfortable side sleeping. A pillow that is too soft, too firm, or the wrong shape can undermine the benefits of side sleeping. The ideal pillow should provide adequate support and promote spinal alignment.

Pillow Height: The ideal pillow height for side sleepers is generally higher than for back or stomach sleepers. This is because the space between your head and the mattress is larger when you are on your side. A good rule of thumb is to choose a pillow that is thick enough to keep your head and neck in a straight line with your spine.
Pillow Material: Consider the material of the pillow. Memory foam pillows conform to the shape of your head and neck, providing excellent support. Latex pillows are also supportive and durable. Down and feather pillows are soft and comfortable but may require more frequent fluffing to maintain their shape.
Pillow Shape: Contoured pillows are specifically designed for side sleepers, often featuring a curved shape that cradles the neck and supports the head. These can be particularly helpful for individuals with neck pain.
Pillow Firmness: Choose a pillow with a firmness level that suits your preferences and provides adequate support. A firmer pillow is often preferred by side sleepers to maintain the proper alignment.
Examples:
- Memory Foam Pillow: These pillows mold to the shape of your head and neck, providing customized support. They are often a good choice for side sleepers with neck pain.
- Latex Pillow: Latex pillows offer good support and are naturally hypoallergenic. They are a durable option that can last for many years.
- Contoured Pillow: These pillows are designed with a curved shape to cradle your neck and support your head. They can help to align your spine and reduce neck strain.

Sleep Aids for Enhancing Side Sleeping Comfort

Beyond posture and pillows, various sleep aids can further improve the side sleeping experience. These tools can enhance comfort, reduce pressure points, and promote deeper, more restful sleep.

Body Pillows: Body pillows are long, cylindrical pillows that can be embraced while sleeping on your side. They provide support for your entire body, helping to maintain spinal alignment and reduce pressure on your hips and shoulders.
Mattress Toppers: A mattress topper can add an extra layer of cushioning and support to your mattress. Memory foam or latex mattress toppers can help to relieve pressure points and improve overall comfort.
Weighted Blankets: Weighted blankets can provide a sense of security and relaxation, which can help you fall asleep faster and sleep more soundly. The gentle pressure of a weighted blanket can also help to reduce anxiety and promote deeper sleep.
Earplugs or White Noise Machines: Noise can disrupt sleep. Earplugs or white noise machines can help to block out distracting sounds and create a more peaceful sleep environment.
Eye Masks: Light can also interfere with sleep. An eye mask can help to block out light and promote a more restful sleep experience.
Room Temperature Control: Maintaining a cool room temperature (around 60-67°F or 15-19°C) can help to improve sleep quality. Use a fan or adjust your thermostat to create a comfortable sleep environment.

Illustrative Examples and Visual Aids: What Side Are U Supposed To Sleep On

A picture, they say, is worth a thousand words. In the context of understanding the nuances of side sleeping, visual aids become invaluable. They transform complex concepts into easily digestible information, making the benefits of proper sleep positioning crystal clear. The following sections will detail illustrative examples, offering a visual representation of key aspects related to side sleeping.

Correct Spinal and Neck Alignment in Side Sleeping

The cornerstone of healthy side sleeping lies in proper alignment. An illustration can vividly depict the ideal posture, showcasing how to minimize strain and maximize comfort.The illustration presents a human figure, lying on their side, seemingly in a state of deep, restful sleep. The figure is facing the right side of the frame. The most striking aspect is the perfect alignment of the spine.

A straight line, represented by a faint, but discernible, internal line within the figure’s body, extends from the base of the skull, through the neck, down the entire length of the spine, and ends at the tailbone. The head rests comfortably on a pillow, positioned at a height that keeps the neck in a neutral position. The ear is aligned with the shoulder, preventing the neck from being bent or strained.

The shoulders are relaxed, not hunched or rounded. The arms, if visible, are gently curved, and the legs are slightly bent at the knees, with a pillow placed between them to maintain hip alignment. This helps to prevent the top leg from rotating forward and twisting the spine. The overall impression is one of relaxed equilibrium, where the body is supported in a way that minimizes pressure points and promotes optimal spinal health.

This image serves as a visual guide to achieving a sleep posture that supports the body’s natural curves.

Opening Airways Through Side Sleeping

One of the significant benefits of side sleeping is its potential to improve breathing. An illustration can clearly demonstrate how this works.The illustration depicts a cross-section of a human head and upper torso, showcasing the airway from the nose to the lungs. The figure is positioned on their side, again facing right. The airway is clearly visible, with a smooth, unobstructed path from the nasal passages through the throat and down into the lungs.

In this position, the tongue and soft palate, which can obstruct the airway when lying on the back, are pulled forward by gravity, allowing for easier airflow. The illustration also shows how the figure’s weight is distributed, reducing the pressure on the chest and allowing for deeper, more effortless breaths. The depiction is enhanced by subtle visual cues, such as the gentle expansion and contraction of the lungs, which further emphasizes the ease of breathing.

The surrounding environment might include a darkened background, creating a sense of a quiet, restful space. The visual emphasizes the open, unobstructed nature of the airway, highlighting the benefits of side sleeping for respiratory health.

Pressure Points and Their Impact on Side Sleeping

Understanding pressure points is key to comfortable side sleeping. An illustration can pinpoint these areas and demonstrate how to alleviate discomfort.The illustration shows a human figure lying on their side, with a focus on the points of contact with the mattress. The figure is facing right. The illustration uses a color-coding system to highlight pressure points. Areas experiencing higher pressure are depicted in red, while areas with lower pressure are shown in blue.

The primary red areas include the shoulder, hip, and ankle. The illustration emphasizes the importance of proper mattress and pillow selection to minimize pressure on these areas. It could also show how a well-chosen mattress can distribute weight evenly, reducing the intensity of the red zones. The illustration might also feature a detailed depiction of a pressure-relieving mattress, with a visual representation of how the mattress contours to the body, offering support where it’s needed and reducing pressure on sensitive areas.

This illustration provides a practical visual guide to understanding and mitigating pressure points, promoting a more comfortable and restorative sleep experience.

Addressing Common Concerns and Myths

Many misconceptions surround sleep positions, often leading to unnecessary worry and potentially hindering the adoption of healthier sleep habits. This section aims to dismantle these myths and provide practical solutions to common issues associated with side sleeping, ensuring you can make informed decisions about your sleep.

Debunking Common Myths Related to Sleep Positions

Several widespread beliefs about sleep positions lack scientific backing. Understanding these myths is crucial for adopting a sleep position that promotes well-being.

Myth: Sleeping on your back is always the best position.

While back sleeping can be beneficial for spinal alignment, it’s not universally ideal. For individuals with sleep apnea, back sleeping can worsen symptoms. Similarly, pregnant women are often advised to avoid back sleeping in the later stages of pregnancy due to potential circulatory issues.

Myth: Side sleeping causes wrinkles.

This concern stems from the idea that pressing your face against a pillow overnight leads to wrinkle formation. While this can contribute to wrinkle development over time, the impact is generally minimal compared to other factors like sun exposure and genetics. The use of silk pillowcases can help reduce friction.

Myth: Sleeping on one side is inherently superior to the other.

The optimal side-sleeping position varies based on individual health conditions and preferences. Both left and right side sleeping offer distinct advantages and disadvantages, as discussed earlier.

Myth: You can control your sleep position throughout the night.

While you can choose your initial sleep position, most people change positions multiple times during the night. The body naturally shifts to find the most comfortable and restorative posture.

Discussing Concerns About Shoulder or Hip Pain Associated with Side Sleeping

Side sleeping can sometimes lead to discomfort, particularly in the shoulder and hip joints. Understanding the causes and implementing solutions is essential for a comfortable night’s rest.

Shoulder and hip pain can arise from several factors, including poor spinal alignment, inadequate mattress support, and the compression of joints. The weight distribution in side sleeping places significant pressure on these areas. This can be especially problematic for individuals with pre-existing conditions like arthritis or bursitis.

Providing Solutions for Managing These Concerns

Fortunately, several strategies can mitigate shoulder and hip pain associated with side sleeping. Implementing these tips can significantly improve sleep quality and reduce discomfort.

Mattress Selection:
A mattress that provides adequate support and pressure relief is crucial. Memory foam or hybrid mattresses are often recommended for side sleepers, as they contour to the body and distribute weight evenly. Consider the firmness level appropriate for your weight and preferred sleeping position.
Pillow Choice:
A supportive pillow that keeps the head and neck aligned with the spine is essential. Side sleepers often benefit from a thicker pillow to fill the space between the ear and the shoulder. Experiment with different pillow materials and heights to find the best fit.
Pillow Placement:
Placing a pillow between the knees can help align the hips and reduce strain on the lower back. This can be particularly helpful for individuals with hip pain or those who tend to twist their spine during sleep.
Stretching and Exercise:
Regular stretching and exercise can improve flexibility and strengthen the muscles supporting the shoulder and hip joints. Gentle stretches before bed can help prepare the body for sleep and reduce the likelihood of pain. Consult a physical therapist for exercises tailored to your needs.
Sleep Surface Adjustments:
Using a mattress topper can provide additional cushioning and pressure relief. Experimenting with different pillow arrangements and sleep positions within side sleeping (e.g., slightly curled up) can also help find a comfortable position.
Professional Consultation:
If pain persists, consult a healthcare professional. They can diagnose underlying conditions and recommend appropriate treatments, such as physical therapy or medication.

Last Point

In conclusion, the simple act of choosing a sleep position is far more than a matter of comfort; it’s a profound act of self-care, a conscious choice to align with the natural rhythms of your body and spirit. As we’ve discovered, side sleeping, especially on the left, unlocks a wealth of benefits, from easing physical discomfort to supporting the optimal functioning of your inner world.

By embracing this knowledge and incorporating the practical tips provided, you can transform your sleep into a sacred practice, a time for deep healing, and a pathway to a more balanced and vibrant life. Remember, the way you rest is a reflection of how you live; choose wisely, and embrace the journey of restful awakening.

FAQ

Is there a ‘perfect’ sleep position for everyone?

While side sleeping is generally recommended, the “perfect” position is subjective and may vary based on individual needs and conditions. The key is to find what supports your body best, considering comfort and health.

Can changing sleep positions help with snoring?

Yes, side sleeping is often a great solution for snoring, as it can help prevent the tongue and soft palate from collapsing into the airway, which is a common cause of snoring.

How can I prevent shoulder or hip pain when side sleeping?

Use a pillow that properly supports your head and neck, and consider placing a pillow between your knees to align your spine. Choosing a mattress with appropriate support and pressure relief can also help.

Is it safe to sleep on my stomach?

Stomach sleeping is generally not recommended as it can put strain on your neck and back. However, if it’s your only comfortable position, try using a thin pillow or no pillow at all to minimize strain.

How long does it take to get used to a new sleep position?

It can take a few days to a few weeks to adjust to a new sleep position. Be patient with yourself, and gradually incorporate the changes to make the transition easier.