Sleep is just as important as water and food. It affects every part of our health. But how do we deal with all the stress in our modern lives? Sometimes, we need to go back in time to when people slept on the floor.
The idea might seem a bit underrated. Remember those nights as a kid, sleeping on mattresses all around with our grandparents and cousins? It was fun and, believe it or not, good for us too.
Mindful therapies nowadays suggest many ways of dealing with the effects of stress. And sleeping on the floor is a delightful throwback that has real health benefits.
Sleeping on the floor might not be mainstream yet, and its benefits are somewhat unknown.
Despite numerous studies, scientists haven’t reached any solid conclusions. The effects can vary from person to person.
However, many people swear by sleeping on the floor, sharing similar positive experiences.
Having a cosy sleeping spot is crucial since our bodies endure a lot of stress every day.
The old tradition of sleeping on the floor provides a stable base, similar to floor-based workouts. Where you sleep impacts your health and can soothe your body, mind and spirit.
Benefits of sleeping on the floor
Improves posture: A recent study in the Medicine Plus Journal found that poor posture can lead to back pain, stiffness and even a higher risk of injury.
The study revealed that a hard surface can improve your posture by keeping your spine aligned. Unlike soft mattresses that can cause your spine to sink and misalign, a solid floor offers the support you need.
Sleeping on the floor may also help you feel more grounded. Some believe it allows bad energy to flow out of your body and into the earth, leading to a better night's sleep.
Because a hard surface doesn't let you sink, leading to more restful and consistent sleep.
Increased blood circulation: The firm surface helps distribute body weigh evenly, which can aid in improving blood flow. Enhanced circulation helps prevent numbness and ensures your muscles get adequate oxygen and nutrients.
Improved back pain: Sleeping on the floor may also improve your posture and help ease back pain. It makes sense since good posture and a healthy back often go together.
While the method has its advocates, you’ll need to try it for yourself to see if it works for you.
In 2019, a research review published in BMJ Open looked at 4 186 articles on how different sleeping positions affect waking pain and stiffness.
The findings were promising but, unfortunately, there isn’t enough high-quality research to provide a definitive answer.
Improved sleep quality: By promoting a natural spine alignment, sleeping on the floor can lead to fewer sleep disruptions and deeper rest. A better-aligned back can translate to less tossing and turning at night.
Cons of sleeping on the floor
While sleeping on the floor has its potential benefits, it’s important to consider the downsides as well.
Some potential cons:
Chilliness: Floors can be cold, especially during winter. This can lead to discomfort and insufficient warmth.
Allergies: Floors often collect dust, dirt and allergens. This can exacerbate allergies or respiratory conditions, affecting overall sleep quality.
Discomfort: Sleeping on a hard surface can be uncomfortable at first. It may take time for your body to adjust. The lack of cushioning can lead to increased pressure on joints, particularly the hips and shoulders, causing pain and discomfort.
Hygiene: Since floors are generally dirtier than beds, maintaining cleanliness can be challenging. Being close to the ground can make you more prone to encounters with insects or pets, disrupting your sleep.
Existing conditions: People with certain health conditions, such as arthritis or chronic joint pain, may find sleeping on a hard surface exacerbates their symptoms.
Rising difficulty: Getting up from the floor can be difficult, especially for older adults or those with mobility issues.
While sleeping on the floor offers some potential benefits, it’s not without its drawbacks. Weigh the pros and cons carefully to determine if it's the right choice for you.