How to buy a pillow is the most beneficial to health

Have you ever woken up with a stiff neck that felt like it couldn’t move? Your whole body feels sore, and you wonder—was it just a bad night’s sleep? But why do you feel more tired after sleeping more? If this sounds familiar, it might be time to take a closer look at your pillow. It could be the real culprit behind your discomfort.

The Problem with Your Pillow

The cervical spine, located at the top of your backbone, is made up of seven vertebrae and forms a natural forward curve. This is called the physiological curvature, and it plays a crucial role in supporting your head and maintaining proper posture. The main purpose of a pillow is to help maintain this natural curve while you sleep. However, if your pillow doesn't fit your neck properly, it can cause pain, stiffness, and even long-term issues.

Pillow Height Matters

Choosing the right pillow height is key. While there's an old saying that “sitting back and relaxing” is good, that doesn’t mean the higher the pillow, the better. A pillow that’s too high forces your neck into an unnatural position, which can strain your cervical spine and lead to stiffness. On the flip side, a pillow that’s too low can cause your head to sink, leading to poor blood circulation, facial swelling, and even snoring or breathing difficulties.

There are three main sleeping positions: lying on your back, on your side, or on your stomach. For back sleepers, a pillow around 15–20 cm high is ideal. Side sleepers should go for a slightly taller pillow, about 20–25 cm, to keep the neck aligned with the rest of the spine. Choosing the right height helps reduce pressure and keeps your neck in a healthy position throughout the night.

Don’t Forget the Firmness

The firmness of your pillow is equally important. A pillow that’s too hard may cause pressure points on your scalp and make it uncomfortable to sleep. Too soft, and it won’t support your neck properly, leading to muscle fatigue and disrupted breathing. The best option is a medium-firm pillow—soft enough to be comfortable, but firm enough to maintain the necessary shape and support for your neck.

Width Is Also Important

A pillow that’s too narrow can leave your neck unsupported when you turn over during the night. Ideally, your pillow should be wider than your shoulders to provide full support and a sense of security. A smaller pillow may cause your neck to hang off the edge, leading to discomfort and poor sleep quality.

In conclusion, your pillow plays a major role in how you feel in the morning. By choosing the right height, firmness, and width, you can significantly improve your sleep quality and avoid those aching necks and tired mornings.