There are so many sleeping positions to choose from. One of the most common positions that people often find themselves in, is sleeping with arms extended above their head, known as the “starfish” position. In this article we will go over various aspects of this position, exploring the pros and cons, suitability of this form of sleep and helpful tips.
What does sleeping with hands above head mean?
It’s pretty simple. In order to get in the shape of this position you need to lie flat on the back with your hands stretched and above your head. In this posture, the body resembles a star shape, hence the name “starfish”. Though it’s not as common as sleeping one one’s side or on the stomach, this position has its own fans who find comfort in sleeping in this pose.
Who can or should use this position?
Even though everyone with normal health can use this position, there are some people who especially find relief and comfort in this position for several reasons due to their physical conditions:
- Individuals with back or neck pain
- People with acid reflux
Benefits of sleeping with your hands above the head
There are several benefits to sleeping with this position that can help you have a more relaxing and comfortable sleep:
Spinal Alignment
The starfish position encourages a neutral spine alignment, reducing stress on the back and potentially easing the pain or discomfort in that area. Sleeping on the back is one of the best positions for people with power back pain.
Say goodbye to face wrinkles
The starfish position is one the best positions if you care about your face. By sleeping on your back, you erase the pressure on your face that often occurs in sleeping on your side.
Also this is the best position if you’ve recently got a Botox treatment. If you want to know more about sleeping positions after Botox, according to how long it’s past from the injection, you can check out this article.
Athletes and Fitness Enthusiasts
Individuals engaged in regular physical activity, such as athletes and fitness enthusiasts, might find the overhead reach position beneficial. This position can help stretch the muscles and joints, potentially aiding in muscle recovery and flexibility. Athletes who engage in activities like weightlifting or running may particularly appreciate the relief it provides to the lower back and spine.
Improved Respiratory Function
Sleeping with your arms above your head may lead to better respiratory function. This position opens up the chest cavity, allowing for easier breathing. But keep in mind that this position is not a recommended sleeping position for breathing problems since sleeping on the back can potentially narrow the airways.
Improved Circulation
Elevating your arms promotes better blood circulation, reducing the risk of waking up with numb or tingling hands. This can be particularly beneficial for those who tend to experience issues related to poor circulation, such as cold hands and feet.
Potential for Temperature Regulation
With limbs spread out, the body is exposed to more air, aiding in temperature regulation and providing a cooler sleep experience.
Drawbacks of sleeping with extended arms above your head
Even though there are benefits in using this position for some people, like everything else, it’s not for everybody to use. For some people with different physical issues, this position might not only be not helpful, but even very harmful to them.
Risk of Sleep Apnea Exacerbation
While the starfish position may help some with sleep apnea, it can worsen symptoms for others. Individuals with sleep apnea may find their condition aggravated in this posture. These people should use other positions which is helpful for breathing problems.
Shoulder and Arm Discomfort
Extended periods with arms above the head may lead to discomfort in the shoulders and arms, especially for those with pre-existing joint issues. Try not stay in tis position for too long. Otherwise, in the long run it can create chronic shoulder pain during sleep.
increased Snoring
Back sleeping often leads to increased snoring as it narrows the airways, and makes it hard to breath normally. To prevent this from happening you should try other positions that can help with this breathing problem.
Not for pregnant ladies
As pregnancy progresses, it’s generally advisable to avoid sleeping on the back, especially in the later stages. This position can put pressure on major blood vessels, potentially leading to reduced blood flow to specific organs and the baby.
The best sleeping position for pregnant women is sleeping on the left side.
If you want to know more, you can check out sleep and pregnancy to learn everything you need to know about this time.
Not Ideal for Allergies or Asthma
For individuals prone to allergies or asthma, the starfish position may expose the face and upper respiratory passages to potential allergens or irritants. Sleeping on one side or on the stomach is a more ideal position for breathing problems.
The starfish sleep position is a unique and comfortable option for those seeking a change in their sleep. While it comes with its own set of advantages, you should keep in mind the potential drawbacks and consider personal health factors. With the right support and awareness, the starfish position can contribute to a restful night’s sleep.
Sweet dreams!
FAQ about sleeping with hands above head
Why do I sleep with my arms above my head?
So many people find themselves in this position after waking up. It can indicate that at some point in your sleep you chose the comfort of this position. However, it can also be a sign of having trouble breathing normally. If this is the case, we advise you to consult with a healthcare professional.
Sleeping with hands above head spiritual meaning
Sleeping in this position can be seen as a sense of openness to spiritual energy. It can also be believed to align the body’s energy channels, promoting a sense of balance and harmony.
Why do babies sleep with their arms above their head?
Again, this position is common, even in babies. Babies try to sleep in a comfortable position, if it’s hands up, down or other positions. It’s a normal stage of development.
Is it harmful for a baby to sleep on their back with their hands above their head?
The starfish position is not a hurtful position per se, unless there are specific heath issues on the line as we mentioned. As for the babies, it’s advised by the AAP to put babies to sleep on their back to avoid sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) from happening. Despite this advice, the AAP recommend once the baby is grown enough to role on their side by themselves it’s ok to let them sleep in whatever position they choose.
Why do i sleep with fists clenched?
Sleeping with clenched fists can be caused by several factors such as stress or anxiety, which cause muscle tension, intense physical activity before bed, certain sleep disorders like sleep bruxism or restless leg syndrome, and even your sleeping posture. If this persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, it may be time to consult a healthcare professional.
