What does your sleeping position say about you? New research has just uncovered what your snoozing habits reveal about your personality. From foetus to starfish, find out yours...
Our sleeping positions go beyond simply lying on our back, front and sides. Some people sleep best on their sides, while others will favour stretching out across the bed.
Research conducted by British towel manufacturer, Christy England, took a deep dive into some of the most popular sleeping positions and what they all mean. The way we sleep during the night can reveal a lot about our personality traits, so take a look at the various positions below.
A. Skydiver
The skydiver position is when you sleep on your stomach with your head to one side and your arms wrapped around the pillow. Much like its name suggests, a skydiver has a playful character and isn't afraid of adventure.
Helena Mead at Christy England explains: 'They are usually to-the-point, but this can sometimes come off as brash. They tend to be risk-takers and seem free-spirited, but skydiver sleepers can be anxious and crave control of a situation.'
B. Stargazer
The stargazer position is similar to how you would stargaze outside: you have your arms behind your head or resting on them while lying on your back. It's often a popular position with people taking quick power naps.
As for personality? 'These type of sleepers are more positive and helpful. They have an easy-going, positive outlook, much like side sleepers. They will do anything to help friends and family, and are extremely loyal to those that they hold dear to them,' says Helena.
C. Starfish
The starfish position is sprawled out across the bed, much like the sea creature itself. You don't really have a set position but you're usually on your back, stretching your arms and legs out wide.
'These sleepers are eager to give friends support. They're outgoing and positive but don't want to be the centre of attention. They are more carefree and tend to go with the flow. They are great people to be around, people-pleasers and natural leaders,' explains Helena.
D. Pillow-huggers
Do you fall asleep with your arms wrapped around your pillow? If so, then you like to feel cosy. As well as caring about personal relationships like stargazers, you are more family-orientated than others.
Helena adds: 'Personal bonds in their life are often the most important things to them. They are very loyal to their significant others, friends, and family.'
E. Foetus position
The foetus position is also known as the baby position, and studies show this is the most common sleeping position. Previous research conducted by On Health found that, on average, 41 per cent of people sleep in the foetus position. This is where you sleep on your side with your legs curled up underneath — mirroring a baby in the womb.
'This position has a few different traits,' says Helena. 'They like the sense of safety the position offers as they doze off. In general, they are more sensitive people. Although more sensitive, they can often exhibit a tougher exterior. They can come off as shy, but they are more personable than others.'
F. Stomach sleepers
While stomach sleepers have bold personalities and are often more sociable than others, they are not as confident on the inside.
Helena says: 'Stomach sleepers don't take criticism well and problems don't roll off their back as easily as with others. They don't handle stressful situations well as they tend not to have a thick skin.'
G. The hugger
Similar to the foetus position, the hugger involves sleeping while clutching a pillow. If this is you, then you find peace and relaxation from holding onto a pillow tightly.
'This is a sign of an affectionate cuddler. These people like to feel safe, warm and protected, but they can also be strong,' says Helena. 'These people value strong and long-lasting friendships, are close to their family and they are nurturing to their partners. This position is also associated with absent-mindedness. They love to daydream, think of new possibilities and are good problem-solvers.'
H. The Yearner
The yearner sleeping position is where you sleep with your arms and legs stretched out.
'They are less gullible, however, they tend to take a long time to make up their minds. Once they have their mindset, you can't change it. They can also be more cynical,' says Helena.
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Neom Organics London Neom Scent to Sleep Essential Oil Blend, 10ml
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Lisa Joyner is the Senior Digital Writer at House Beautiful UK and Country Living UK, where she's busy writing about home and interiors, gardening, dog breeds, pets, health and wellbeing, countryside news, small space inspiration, and the hottest properties on the market. Previously, she has written for Conde Nast Traveller, House & Garden and Marie Claire magazine. Lisa studied at University For The Creative Arts, where she completed a BA in Fashion Journalism.
