Getting a good night’s rest is so important not just to be able to function properly the next day but for one’s overall well-being. After a good night’s sleep, you want to awake feeling refreshed and relaxed. You should never have to wake up feeling still and in pain. If you ever wake up in the morning with a stiff neck and/or back you may need to reevaluate your sleeping position as well as your pillow. According to an article from Harvard Special Health Reports, there are two sleeping positions that are easiest on the neck and back: “on your side or on your back. If you sleep on your back, choose a rounded pillow to support the natural curve of your neck, with a flatter pillow cushioning your head.” If you are unsure of the right pillow to help support your body when you sleep, take a look at these additional tips for the side and back sleepers:

  1. Use a down pillow. This fluffy feather filled pillow can conform to the shape of your neck. These pillows do not last forever and will need to be replaced frequently.
  2. If fluffy is not your personal preference, try using a pillow made of memory foam, which also conforms to the neck while providing more firm support.
  3. Avoid stacking your pillows as extra added height is not good for the neck alignment and can cause you to wake up with a stiff neck.

If you take these tips into consideration, you will be on your way to a peaceful night’s sleep!