We all need to lie comfortably at the end of a long day and recover from the stresses of everyday life. Many opt for a soft, cozy mattress that allows you to sink into and feel like you're cradled in a cloud. But have you ever wondered if this is really the best thing for your body?

Hard mattresses, often referred to as orthopedic mattresses, have a long tradition in various cultures and throughout human history. From the simple straw mats of the ancient world to the firm tatami mats of Japan, hard mattresses have always been the first choice for many people because they offer several ergonomic advantages.

• Improved posture: Soft mattresses often cause us to sink in, which can lead to our backs arching into an unnatural position. A firm mattress, on the other hand, supports the body evenly and promotes a straight spine during sleep. A firmer mattress can therefore be particularly beneficial for people with posture problems.
• Even circulation: A sinking body can also restrict blood flow in certain areas. A firm surface prevents sinking and supports even circulation.
• Less movement during sleep: On a hard surface we move less while we sleep, which can lead to deeper, more restful sleep.

A hard mattress pad may not be for everyone. However, it's undeniable that it offers some significant ergonomic advantages. In addition to the optimal firmness, another factor also plays a crucial role: the sleeping position.

The correct lying position

The correct sleeping position is just as important for health and sleep behavior as the right firmness of the mattress. After all, the way we lie down can make the difference between a restful night's sleep and back pain in the morning.

There are many different positions that are suitable for restful sleep or for relaxing lying down in general. We usually decide intuitively which position is most comfortable for us, choosing between lying on our back, on our side, or lying on our stomach.

No matter which of these three positions you personally prefer, there are a few things you can keep in mind to optimize your individual lying position.

• The supine position: Sleeping on your back is particularly beneficial because it distributes your body weight evenly across the entire sleeping surface. This reduces the number of intense pressure points and also supports a neutral spinal position.To maximize the benefits of this position and relieve the body as much as possible, a flat pillow should be used when lying on your back so that the neck can be supported without placing the head too far upwards.
• The lateral position: Many people find sleeping and lying on their side very comfortable, especially when using an ergonomic, hard surface. However, when sleeping in this position, it's important to place a pillow between the knees to relieve pressure on the hips and properly align the spine.
• The prone position: For most people, sleeping on their stomach is arguably the least comfortable, especially when combined with a hard surface. A hard surface can accentuate the natural arch of the lower back, causing discomfort. However, bending one leg and resting the head on a flat pillow to support the neck can increase comfort and allow for relaxed sleeping on your stomach, even on a hard and ergonomic surface.

As one makes one's bed...

A soft mattress that tempts you to sink in may seem tempting at first, but it's not the best choice for our well-being. Especially in the area of ​​therapy couches, mats, and mattresses, a firmness level that offers ergonomic advantages is preferred.

However, that doesn't mean that ergonomic lying has to be uncomfortable. The right lying position can work wonders, but there are also other ways to create the most comfortable lying experience possible.

Among other things, thin toppers or soft covers can provide a softer sleeping experience while still enjoying all the benefits of a firm sleeping surface. Choosing the right pillow for your individual needs can also contribute to increased comfort.

Overall, it can be said that the “right way to lie” should be viewed as a combination of orthopedically advantageous supports, the correct lying position and, above all, your own preferences.