Sleep on it

A good night’s rest starts with the right pillow, writes Sushma Veera

EVERY now and then, I have restless nights and wake up in the mornings feeling tired. I resort to different pillows, even those in the guest rooms, just to get into a comfortable position.

I know it must have something to do with my pillow, but with so many types in the market, it is an overwhelming task to find the one that works for me.

Ikea Malaysia bedroom specialist Gordan Wimalasiri says finding the right pillow is not easy as it differs between individuals. It all depends on one’s height and weight, and sleeping position.

Says Wimalasiri: “If you start your mornings with a stiff neck, it  is time to look for the right pillow. At Ikea, you’ll find an affordable choice of pillows, high, low and in-between, designed to give neck and head comfort and support and ease strain on your muscles. So you can relax and get a good night’s sleep.”   

The sleeping position influences pillow selection as different types of support are required, depending on whether the person sleeps on  his side, back or stomach.

Ikea bedroom textile specialist Ibrahim Abu Bakar explains that choosing the right pillow is important for  good support for your head, shoulder and your neck while sleeping.

“Our pillows come in three heights and each pillow group has different filling materials such as synthetic and cellulose fibres and down or feather.

“Identifying your sleeping position helps to determine the pillow you sleep best on. You sleep most comfortably when the muscles in your head and neck are totally relaxed,” says Ibrahim.
He shares some tips on choosing a good pillow for a comfortable slumber:

• Side — your muscles need more support from a high pillow. High thickness pillows help to align your head and neck with your spine. It enables you to lie straight and relax.

• Back — a pillow of medium thickness is recommended as it gives your head and neck the support they need so that your body can relax.

• Stomach — a low pillow gives the height of comfort and helps to reduce pressure on your neck and muscle tension.

Wimalasiri says a good mattress is also equally important for a good slumber. Customers often make the mistake of sitting on the mattress rather than lying down when they try it.

“For comfort and a good night’s sleep, it’s important to keep your spine supported, so that it can relax into its natural shape.”

Generally, a heavier person gets better support from a firmer mattress and a lighter person gets better support from a softer mattress.

“Like the pillow, finding the mattress that will work best for you depends on the position you like to sleep in,” he says.
Wimalasiri also offers some pointers when buying a new mattress:

• Side — A side-sleeper needs a mattress that contours itself to the hips and shoulders, while still supporting the rest of the body.

• Back — Weight is distributed more evenly when you sleep on your back. A mattress that supports the neck and lower back will keep the spine nice and relaxed.

• Stomach — If you feel comfortable this way, the best choice is a firmer mattress that supports the belly and keeps the spine from sinking down.

Since there is no one product that works for everyone, it needs a little experimentation to find the best item. Where possible, it is  worthwhile taking the time in-store to test how comfortable a pillow or a mattress is. Or you can also try Ikea’s online guide at www.IKEA.com.my to find the perfect solutions.

WHAT SUITS YOU?

SPRING MATTRESS
This provides good ventilation and distributes your weight evenly, eliminating extra pressure on any one part of the body. You can customise the comfort with a mattress pad.

FOAM AND LATEX MATTRESS
This gives firm support and is resilient at the same time. It provides stable sleeping comfort, absorbs the shock from body movement, making it a great choice if you share the bed with a partner who tends to toss and turn at night.

 

 

In addition to a good pillow, the right mattress is also equally important for a good slumber

For side or back sleeper

The right bedding solutions can make all the difference in the world when it comes to how well we sleep

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