Herbie Murray
The way a person sleeps can reveal a lot about their health and personality. While there is little scientific research connecting sleep positions to personality traits, some studies have found links between sleeping positions and certain characteristics. For example, the fetal position, where a person sleeps on their side with their knees bent towards their chest, is associated with being warm, friendly, and sensitive. Meanwhile, sleeping on the stomach with arms wrapped around a pillow is linked to being sociable and outgoing. Additionally, sleeping with dinosaur hands has been observed more commonly among neurodivergent individuals, but it is not exclusive to this population.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Sleeping position | Side, back, stomach, fetal position, log, yearner, with dinosaur hands |
| Sleeping on the back | The tongue and jaw can fall and crowd the airway, causing snoring |
| Sleeping on the stomach | Helps keep the airway open, but can put a strain on the spine and neck |
| Sleeping on the side | Prevents the airway from collapsing, reducing snoring, and is recommended for neck and back pain |
| Sleeping with arms down | May be more likely to be quiet and keep to yourself |
| Sleeping with arms up near the head | May be more likely to be a good listener |
| Sleeping with arms out in front | May be open-minded, but suspicious |
| Sleeping with dinosaur hands | May be more prevalent among neurodivergent individuals, but is not exclusive to this population |
| Fetal position | More common among women, may indicate warmth, friendliness, and sensitivity |
| Log position | May indicate sociability and ease of interaction |
| Yearner position | May indicate a feeling of yearning or reaching for something |
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What You'll Learn
The link between sleep position and personality
While there is little scientific research on the link between sleep position and personality, some interesting insights have been noted. Sleep scientists have categorised various sleeping positions and their potential implications for personality traits.
The fetal position, where sleepers curl up on their side with their knees bent towards their chest, is the most common position, especially for women. Some research suggests that those who sleep in this position are more likely to be warm, friendly, and sensitive, yet they may also have a protective shell. The log position is another side-sleeping variation, where sleepers extend their arms and legs, keeping their body straight. Sleep scientist Chris Idzikowski claims that those who prefer this position are more sociable and interact with others easily, but he also warns that their openness and trust may make them gullible.
Sleeping on one's back with arms down by their side may indicate a tendency to be quiet, keep to oneself, and have high expectations of oneself and others. Conversely, those who sleep on their back with their arms up near their head may be more inclined to be good listeners and avoid being the centre of attention.
Sleeping on the stomach is said to help keep the airway open, but it can strain the spine and neck. This position is associated with being more outgoing, sociable, and willing to speak one's mind. However, tummy sleepers are also more likely to experience restlessness and may need to use a soft or no pillow to maintain neck comfort.
While these associations are intriguing, it is important to approach them with caution, as the definition of each sleeping position varies across studies, and researchers have yet to establish convincing explanations for the connections.
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The impact of sleep position on health
While there is limited scientific research on the connection between sleep positions and personality traits, sleep positions can have a significant impact on health and sleep quality. Sleeping on the side, back, or stomach are the most common positions, with variations within each category.
The fetal position, a type of side-sleeping, is the most popular way to sleep, with over 40% of people, especially women, favouring it. This position allows the spine to rest in its natural alignment, reducing back pain and lowering the risk of snoring and sleep apnea. Research also suggests that side-sleeping may help prevent conditions like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's by facilitating better waste clearance in the brain. For pregnant women, sleeping on the left side is recommended as it improves blood flow to the baby and prevents pressure on the liver. However, side-sleeping can lead to shoulder soreness and tightness and may contribute to facial wrinkles due to the face being pressed against the pillow.
Sleeping on the back, or the "starfish" position, is natural for many people but can worsen snoring, sleep apnea, and acid reflux. It can also negatively impact heart health, with studies suggesting that sleeping on the right side is better for heart health than the left, which can worsen shortness of breath.
Stomach sleeping, or the "freefall" position, is the least favourable as it provides minimal back support and increases pressure on the spine, leading to back pain and neck strain. It can also cause tossing and turning during sleep and may contribute to facial wrinkles.
While the impact of sleep positions on health is evident, the healthiest position depends on individual needs, comfort, and any existing medical conditions. For example, side-sleeping may be beneficial for pregnant women, while those with back pain may find relief in certain positions over others.
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The fetal position
Sleeping in the fetal position is prevalent among adults and may be a way of coping with stress or anxiety, as it may subconsciously remind individuals of the comfort and security of the womb. Sleep studies have suggested a correlation between the fetal position and certain personality traits. For example, individuals who sleep in this position might be more introverted, sensitive, shy, and prone to overthinking or worrying.
While the fetal position might be comforting for many, it is important to prioritize sleep quality and physical comfort. Sleepers can modify the fetal position by keeping the body more relaxed and less tightly curled, thus avoiding any potential discomfort or health issues.
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Sleeping with 'dinosaur hands'
Sleeping with "dinosaur hands" is a colloquial term for sleeping with wrists bent inward toward the body and hands curled up, resembling a dinosaur's claws. While this sleep position may be more prevalent among neurodivergent individuals, particularly those with autism or ADHD, it is not exclusive to this population.
The phenomenon of "dinosaur hands" has gained attention on social media, with some people expressing concern about potential links to specific health conditions. However, there is little to no scientific research on the topic. While sleeping with "dinosaur hands" may not be harmful, some people have reported experiencing tendonitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, or ulnar nerve compression as a result of this sleep position.
For those who wake up with sore or numb hands, there are several strategies that can help alleviate discomfort. Adjusting the sleeping position by sleeping on the side with arms extended or using a body pillow to hug can help maintain a more neutral position for the wrists and arms. Stretching exercises before bed can also reduce tension in the arms and wrists.
Some people who sleep with "dinosaur hands" may do so to feel more secure and relaxed. This sleep position can provide a sense of comfort and stability, especially for those who feel an intense urge to hold something while sleeping. It can be compared to the feeling of holding a stuffed animal or pillow, offering a sense of familiarity and tranquility in a world that can often feel overwhelming.
Overall, while sleeping with "dinosaur hands" may be an unusual habit, it is a natural and comforting way for many people to rest, regardless of their neurotypicality. It is important to understand this behavior without judgment and seek treatment only if it is causing pain or discomfort.
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The best sleep positions during pregnancy
Sleep is a time for the body to reset and repair itself, and it is even more important during pregnancy. However, finding a comfortable sleep position can be challenging as your bump grows. Many factors can disrupt sleep during pregnancy, including frequent urination, nausea, heartburn, lower back pain, and leg cramps.
Most experts agree that once the abdomen starts to expand, it is best to sleep on the left side with knees bent. Side sleeping is more comfortable and helps improve blood flow for both the pregnant person and the fetus. Sleeping on the left side will increase the amount of blood and nutrients that reach the placenta and the baby. It also decreases the likelihood of swelling in the ankles and legs.
Sleeping on the right side is generally considered safe, but for short intervals. Sleeping on the right can put pressure on the liver. As the fetus gets bigger, there is a greater chance of compression of blood flow to the uterus, and sleeping on the side helps mitigate this.
Sleeping on the back is generally considered safe during the first trimester, but it is not advised from the second trimester onwards. Back sleeping causes the weight of the uterus to place pressure on the aorta and the vena cava, making it harder for the heart to pump blood. This compression can cause discomfort and dizziness upon waking, and may lead to or exacerbate lower back pain. Sleeping on the back is also associated with a higher chance of snoring and other breathing problems.
Sleeping on the stomach is usually fine until weeks 16 to 18, after which the growing bump may make this position less desirable. However, some sources suggest that stomach sleeping is safe until the second trimester. Sleeping on the stomach does not harm the baby, as the uterine walls and amniotic fluid protect the fetus.
To help get comfortable while sleeping on the side, try placing a pillow between the legs to relieve stress on the back. If back pain is an issue, place a pillow under the abdomen as well. If you experience heartburn during the night, try propping your upper body with pillows. In late pregnancy, shortness of breath may occur, and sleeping on the side or propped up with pillows can help.
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Frequently asked questions
Sleeping with "dinosaur hands" is a phenomenon observed in neurodivergent individuals, though it is not exclusive to this population. It involves sleeping in a posture that resembles holding a stuffed animal or pillow, providing comfort and a sense of stability.
Sleeping on your back can cause snoring due to the tongue and jaw crowding the airway. It can also be uncomfortable during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester, as it compresses the uterus and arterial system.
Side sleeping is generally considered the healthiest option. It helps prevent the airway from collapsing, reduces snoring, and is recommended for pregnant individuals, especially during the last trimester, to keep pressure off internal organs and promote healthy blood flow.
Sleeping on your stomach can help keep the airway open, but it may cause restlessness and put strain on your spine, neck, and lower back. It is also associated with being more outgoing and sociable.
While there is limited scientific research on the connection between sleeping positions and personality traits, some studies suggest that certain sleeping postures may indicate traits such as sociability, trustworthiness, openness, and sensitivity. However, these associations should be interpreted lightly.
