Sleeping on the Floor: Everything You Need to Know
Written by Nectarsleep editorial team
Fact checked
Last Updated on Jun 29, 2022
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The feeling of waking up bright and fresh after sleep is priceless. So when we talk about sleeping, the first thing that pops into your mind would be a soft, fluffy, and cozy bed. But do you know some people would rather prefer sleeping on the floor?
Many cultures across the globe believe in sleeping on the floor. If you look at the western world, you usually notice people sleeping in a big comfy bed with large pillows. However, many US states have adopted the culture of sleeping on the floor. Some people say it helps them to keep their posture straight and helps manage lower back pain in older adults.
This article explores the benefits of sleeping on the floor, its side effects, and how to sleep peacefully without hurting yourself. Sleeping right is the key to a healthy mind and body. Find out how much sleep I need?
Health Benefits of Sleeping on the Floor
As mentioned before, many people agree that sleeping on the floor is beneficial for them. Other people say that sleeping on firm surfaces makes a difference to their posture. Let’s see how sleeping on the floor can be helpful for you.
1. Helps straighten your posture
Soft surfaces let your spine bend or curve easily, whereas hard surfaces help them stay straight. When you sleep on a hard surface like the floor, your spine is forced to remain in a straight line.
2. Helps reduce back pain
One of the strongest reasons people sleep on the floor is to soothe back pain. It helps with the alignment of the spine. However, according to research, many people complain that sleeping on the floor or hard sleeping surfaces increases body pain over time, which means that you have to feel comfortable before deciding to sleep on the floor.
3. Helps with sciatica pain
Sciatica is the pain that happens when nerves that run from your lower back to your leg are disturbed. Sciatica pain can be relieved by sleeping on a hard mattress or floor. So, if you want to get rid of this pain, consider sleeping on a hard mattress or switch to the floor altogether.
4. Improves blood circulation
The body’s weight is evenly distributed, so there’s less pressure on your spine, lumbar, shoulders, and hips. Floor sleeping allows the blood to flow easily through the body.
Disadvantages of Sleeping on the Floor
While many people find it beneficial, others complain about developing body pain issues if they sleep on the floor. Let’s take a look at the disadvantages of sleeping on the floor.
1. Allergic reactions
The floor has many allergens that can affect sleep quality. People who suffer from allergies might find an increase in their allergic reactions as the floor might not be as clean and hygienic as a mattress.
2. Increased back pain
While some people find sleeping on the floor comforting, it could be problematic for others. The floor could be too hard for sensitive individuals making it hard for the body to adjust. Here one can try sleeping on a firmer mattress, a memory foam mattress, a sleeping bag or a futon instead of the floor.
3. Increased exposure to cold
Sleeping on the floor could make you feel cold as you don’t sleep on a warm and comfy bed. On a hot and sunny day, the floor might seem like a great option but sleeping on the floor during winter may be a bad idea.
4. Bugs and insects can attack you!
It’s obvious when you sleep on the floor; you can get attacked by bugs or insects easily. You should look out before sleeping or create some kind of a safe boundary for yourself.
Is Sleeping on the Floor Good For Your Back?
A lot of people prefer to sleep on the hard floor to avoid back or spine-related issues. While sleeping does straighten your spine, it doesn’t suit everyone. Some people are advised to sleep on hard surfaces since they suffer from severe back pains.
Depending on the condition you are trying to treat, choose the surface that gives you the most relief. We recommend consulting your doctor before choosing the right mattress for your condition.
Does Sleeping on the Floor Help with Sciatica?
People who suffer from sciatica pain find lying on the floor for back pain an easy solution. This is because the spine bones tend to ease out when you sleep on hard surfaces. This relaxes the sciatic muscles, which reduces your sciatica pain. According to research, sleeping on a medium-firm mattress boosts sleep quality, promotes comfort, improves spinal alignment, and regulates the flow of blood.
Who Shouldn’t Sleep on the Floor?
Sleeping on the floor isn’t beneficial for everyone.
Older people – As we age, our bones weaken; sleeping on hard surfaces could fracture the bones or cause major discomfort. Choose soft and comfortable beds if you are finding it painful to sleep on hard surfaces.
People with mobility issues – Sleeping on hard surfaces isn’t ideal for those who have joint problems or have undergone surgery or had an accident. In such times, comfort is of the ultimate essence; choose a bed instead of a floor in such cases.
People who feel cold – A lot of people feel cold even when others don’t. Such people should avoid sleeping on the floor as it can give them unwanted chest infections and health issues.
Side sleepers – People who sleep sideways should prefer sleeping on a bed. Side sleeping could hamper the alignment of the spinal bones.
Tips for Sleeping on the Floor While Pregnant
As the spine becomes sensitive, most women during pregnancy suffer from frequent back pains. Meaning they are willing to try anything that eases their pain. Sleeping on the floor can ease their back pains, but it can become a bit difficult with the growing belly.
Most women find it comforting to sleep in different positions or with a pregnancy pillow. However, as it is a matter of comfort, it is up to a woman to choose.
How to Sleep on the Floor Properly?
There are many tips and tricks to sleeping properly on the floor. Let’s understand how to make sleeping on the floor more comfortable and minimize harm to the body.
- Sleep on a floor mattress
- Keep the floor clean and hygienic
- Start with a shorter duration of sleep or naps to get used to the floor
- Try different sleeping positions
- Sleep with a thin pillow
Wrapping It Up
Although there isn’t enough evidence to suggest that sleeping on the floor is always beneficial, the Japanese culture promotes it. If you are intrigued by this idea, then all we can say is- go try it out. On the other hand, if you feel uncomfortable, but like the idea of sleeping on the floor, then why not try a floor mattress?
