What Is a Zero Gravity Bed and Its Benefits
Written by Nectarsleep editorial team
Last Updated on Jan 17, 2023
According to experts, a zero-gravity sleeping position is great for achieving sound sleep while taking the pressure off your heart and regulating your blood flow. Zero gravity beds are all the rage and with good reason. But first, what is a Zero gravity position? Can it be achieved only through a specific zero gravity bed?
In this post, we take you through why zero gravity beds are emerging as a trend and why they will change the way we sleep.
What is Zero Gravity Position?
Zero gravity position was developed by NASA for their astronauts to balance the weight and relieve stress on their bodies while launching into space. The zero-gravity position is a neutral body position that mimics the state of complete weightlessness giving you the sensation of floating.
A zero gravity position is achieved by lying on your back and raising your legs and head above the level of your heart. It places your body at an angle of 120 degrees called a zero stress zone which is the most relaxed position for your heart and the nervous system.
How to achieve zero gravity bed position?
Setting your adjustable bed to zero gravity position is very simple, raise your upper body so that it’s at a 120-degree angle with your thighs. Set your knees at an angle so that they remain somewhat bent while remaining above the level of the heart. This reduces the pressure on your neck, back, shoulders, and legs.
You can use pillows or cushions to achieve this but the easiest way is to use an adjustable bed.
Health Benefits of Zero Gravity Sleep Position
Since zero gravity beds are a recent introduction, their health benefits are still being observed. Here are some zero gravity bed health benefits that you can enjoy if you decide to purchase one:
- Zero gravity position reduces the pressure on your body and also puts less pressure on your spine
- It reduces discomfort for people with lower back pain as it takes off pressure from the usual pressure points like hips and shoulders
- Sleepers with chronic aches or sore muscles can enjoy faster recovery and deeper sleep in a zero-gravity position as better blood circulation reduces swelling
- Zero gravity position reduces pressure on the heart and improves heart health thanks to the 120-degree angular position
- The upright position of the head in zero gravity helps to keep stomach acid down and reduces acid reflux
- It allows free air passage to keep your airways open and prevents snoring and obstructive sleep apnea because of the angular head position above the stomach
- Zero gravity position improves your luxury quotient by making movie watching, reading, or resting in bed a more enjoyable experience
What Are Adjustable Beds?
Adjustable beds allow you to adjust the angle of your head and feet to get into the most comfortable position for sleep. Adjustable beds that allow your body to get into zero gravity position are known as zero gravity beds.
These zero gravity beds have been used in hospitals for years because they help regulate blood flow. Apart from offering multiple health benefits, they also reduce snoring, alleviate back and neck pain and help a patient fall into a deeper sleep. New age adjustable beds offer modern comforting features like built-in USB ports and programmable remotes.
What Are the Features of an Adjustable Bed?
Each bed is unique and will have a different set of features. Some of the popular features include:
- Lifting the head at an angle greater than 70 degrees
- Lifting the feet at an angle greater than 47 degrees
- Built-in USB plugs
- Whisper quiet lift system
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Some may offer built-in massage motor
Pros and Cons of an Adjustable Bed
An adjustable bed can be stationed in several different sleeping positions depending on the requirements of the sleeper. Listed below are some of the noted pros and cons of adjustable beds.
Pros of an Adjustable Bed
- Adjustable beds increase comfort as the head and foot are at an incline which is often more comfortable than sleeping flat
- Adjustable beds allow the sleeper to sleep in a position that takes pressure away from painful areas like the back and neck
- Adjustable beds reduce snoring by elevating the top half of the bed, which keeps the airways open more
- Zero gravity of adjustable beds lead to a peaceful and deep sleep
- Adjustable beds make it easier for older people to enter and exit from the bed by rising to a comfortable height
Cons of an Adjustable Bed
- Adjustable beds may be incompatible with existing mattresses and you may need to look into a new adjustable mattress
- Adjustable beds are expensive compared to normal beds
Things to Consider When Buying an Adjustable Bed
- Check whether the adjustable bed comes up with a pre-assembly or the supplier assembles it post-delivery
- Another important factor to consider is the ease of use, check if it comes with a zero gravity bed pillow and a bed frame for ease of use
- Because zero gravity beds are adjustable and come with electronic or mechanical parts, it is important to check for the warranty provided by the supplier. The specifics of the warranty may or may not provide warranty on motor and handsets
Best Adjustable Beds
With so many options available in the market, it is difficult to pick an adjustable bed.
Before shopping, ask yourself what exactly are you looking for in a new adjustable bed base and mattress. Are you looking for pure pain relief or are you interested in upgrading your sleep? What is the budget for your new adjustable bed? Does your new adjustable bed come with the best features at an affordable price?
Needless to say, zero gravity beds are expensive and can set you back by a few thousand dollars for the basic version. At NectarSleep, you can find bed frames that come with built-in USB plugs, massage controllers, and a range of easy-to-use controls.
We offer a 3 years warranty with easy returns and a 50-day trial policy. Free shipping is a part of the offer along with delivery and assembly of our multipurpose adjustable bed frame.
Alternatives to Adjustable Beds
Pillows can serve as a great tool to elevate the upper body and the lower body when placed under the head and the knees. Additionally, different types of wedge-shaped cushion sets offer similar elevated positions for the upper body and legs.
Zero gravity position can also be achieved through a recliner but it won’t be as exact as an adjustable bed.
With the health benefits and the comfort provided in an adjustable bed, going slightly above your budget and making a one-time investment in these beds completely makes sense for your physical and mental health. Adjustable beds might just prove to be the long-time solution to your sleeping problems.
Final Word
Scientists at NASA are responsible for many inventions, including the ballpoint pen. Zero gravity beds were also developed for astronauts but ended up becoming a part of better sleep science. Adjustable beds look like they are here to stay so making that investment may just prove to be worth it.
