Sleeping is a fundamental part of maintaining a healthy life. It plays an important role in maintaining our physical and mental health, and beyond its physiological importance, how we sleep — and especially, our sleep position — can reveal a lot about our personalities.

Types of Sleep Positions

There are several types of sleep positions, from the back to the stomach. According to News Medical Life Sciences, 54% of adults say they prefer to sleep on their sides. This is common because as we age, our spine becomes less flexible, so sleeping on your side is convenient because, in this position, your spine is properly aligned and supported.

People who suffer from neck and lower back can especially benefit from this position. By placing a pillow or cushion in-between your knees, you help support your hips and pelvis for better posture.

Another common sleep position is the back or supine position. 38% of people say they enjoy sleeping on their backs. Resting on your back stretches your spine, which helps reduce stiffness and pain, promoting proper spinal health.

What Your Sleep Position Says About You

Sleeping is a necessary part of life. Even more important is finding a position in which you can rest comfortably. Whether you prefer to lay on your stomach or on your side, your sleep position can reveal a lot about you. To find out what your sleep position says about you, take a look at what the experts have to say:

Fetal Position

The fetal position is a popular sleep position that involves curling up on your side, which evokes a feeling of safety and security. If you enjoy laying in this position, experts say you could be the sensitive type. According to Reader’s Digest, Director of the Sleep Assessment and Advisory Service Chris Idzikowski, Ph.D., said, “Those who favor the side-lying fetal position tend to be sensitive, but may project a tough exterior.”

Starfish

People who adopt a starfish position sleep on their backs with their arms and legs outstretched. If this is your favorite position, it could mean that you value friendship. People who prefer to sleep this way tend to appreciate the relationship they build with others, preferring to share the spotlight rather than be the center of attention.

Back

If sleeping on your back is most comfortable for you, you probably have a higher level of confidence than others. People who prefer to rest on their backs tend to be more open and always ready for their next adventure.

Freefall

The freefall position involves sleeping on your stomach. The sleeper turns their head to the side as their arms and hands rest on or around their pillow. If you like to assume this position at night, this could point to an anxious personality. People who sleep on their stomachs are more likely to lead rigid, structured lifestyles. They do well in meticulous roles such as accounting or banking, but according to previous studies, they also tend to be less confident.