Sleeping on the Floor: 9 Benefits of Ancient Practice

I’m sure you’ve heard of people who prefer sleeping on the floor on a regular basis. Why do they like it so much? Why are people on the paleo diet resorting to sleeping on the floor?

Is it best to do something that appears to be extremely uncomfortable? Yes, depending on your health concerns!

The truth is, it doesn’t have to be unpleasant. In fact, many people find that sleeping on the floor becomes more comfortable over time because it helps to realign your spine naturally and eliminates soreness and pain from sleeping in one position for too long.

Let’s look at some of the reasons they’re making the switch and see if it might be beneficial to your health as well!

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Sleeping on the floor

Sleeping causes a lot of pain and soreness for a lot of people. This is not a new phenomenon.

It could be the result of a previous injury, natural ageing, not moving around enough while sleeping, strenuous workouts that leave your muscles tighter than usual, or the type of mattress you have.

For some, simply taking the time to firm up your mattress or purchasing a new one can make a significant difference.

However, if this fails or if purchasing a new one is not a financially viable option for you, you may need to consider sleeping on the floor. Let’s look at why this might be the best option for your health.

A life on the cushion

According to one theory, we are constantly cushioned throughout our lives by pillows, soft chairs, couches, and the like, causing our muscles to soften. All of the cushions we use on a daily basis, especially memory foam mattresses, promote long-term stillness.

Because we are so comfortable and well-supported, we don’t feel the need to change positions or move around as much. It is harmful to your health because it can cause unnecessary soreness, stiffness, and even pain in your joints.

Sleeping on a hard surface, such as the floor, could be a possible solution. It is possible to promote deeper sleep by doing so. When you wake up, your body can have more natural movements that do not cause you pain.

After a strenuous workout, treat yourself to a relaxing massage.

Sleeping on the floor may also be beneficial to your health if you are physically active or regularly engage in strenuous exercise. While you slept, the firm surface allowed for even weight distribution.

It aids in the natural realignment of the spine, particularly if you sleep on your back. When your muscles are sore, the firmness of the floor will exert pressure on you throughout the night. [1]

It simulates the sensation of receiving a massage. As a result, you will notice that your body is less sore after a good night’s sleep.

How to Transition to Sleeping on the Floor

Okay, so you’re thinking about giving it a shot. Regardless of the reason, the transition may be difficult. It is preferable to take your time rather than making a firm commitment to sleep on the floor overnight.

It will allow your body to make the transition without experiencing any unnecessary soreness or pain as a result of the abrupt change.

Step 1: Experiment with sleeping on the opposite side of the bed.

Initially, switch to the opposite side. Some people prefer to sleep on their right side, while others prefer to sleep on their left. As a result, our mattresses may begin to show wear in the shape of our bodies.

So, for the first step, sleep on the side you are not accustomed to sleeping on. It may feel a little strange at first. It might even feel like a fresh start, especially if you sleep alone.

You should, however, be able to get a good night’s sleep. Try this for a few days before proceeding to the next step. Although it may not appear to be much, starting slowly is preferable and can make the process easier in the long run.

Step 2: Experiment with sleeping on a different mattress entirely.

Try sleeping on a different mattress if you have the option. Do you have a spare room or a pullout couch? Or could you stay with a friend for a few days?

Don’t worry if this isn’t an option; simply proceed. You will gradually become more accustomed to sleeping in a different manner if you change the room in which you sleep as well as the mattress. That will make the next few steps easier and less painful.

Step 3: Get rid of any extra padding or sleep on a futon.

Remove any extra padding, such as eggshell padding or a detachable pillow top. Sleeping on a harder surface gradually prepares your body for movement. You should also try sleeping on a futon for a few days because they are much firmer.

Step 4: Place some comfortable padding on the floor.

When first transitioning to the floor, it is best to use a lot of padding to avoid becoming discouraged. Let’s face it: there’s a big difference. So gather your resources; nothing is off-limits.

Yoga mats, camping sleeping mats, sleeping bags, big fluffy comforters, eggshell padding, or pillow top pads are all possibilities. This step may be difficult at first, but if you stick with it for a few days, your body should start to feel more at ease.

Step 5: Begin removing the excess padding.

Remove the padding you used to make your makeshift bed on the floor gradually. Don’t try to take out too much at once. Instead, be patient and take your time with this step. Remember, there is no turning back now. If you remove a piece of padding, do not replace it.

Step 6: Make a commitment to the floor.

When you finally make it to the floor, your body may feel a little uneasy at first. It is critical that you commit to the floor and try to reap as many benefits as possible from it.

Give it a chance and take your time with it. Try it for a few days, perhaps five to seven, before deciding if this is the best option for you. However, as with many transitions, the longer you stick with it, the better it will be for your health.

Many people with bad backs or who do extreme workouts find this to be an excellent option. Sleeping on the floor may alleviate your pain and discomfort. Overall, it will be beneficial to your health. Give it a shot!

Bed frame vs. mattress on the floor

What exactly is the function of a bed frame? Why don’t we just throw our mattresses on the ground? For many, it’s simply a matter of taste. Some architects even suggest that putting your bed directly on the floor is a chic aesthetic because it is minimalistic and emphasises the other elements of the room.

Some people prefer to highlight it with a simple or ornate frame. You may already have a style preference, but before you make a final decision, weigh the benefits and drawbacks of each option.

Pros of a bed frame:

There are numerous benefits to using a bed frame.

Many have extra storage space underneath that can be used. It can be useful, especially during the summer months when you need extra storage for your winter bedding.
It elevates the mattress off the floor, keeping you warm in the winter.
In some cases, the elevation can protect against a possible bed bug infestation. However, these critters are not always so easily deterred.
In the event of a flood, the elevation can protect your bed from water damage.
Mold and mildew can be prevented from forming at the mattress’s base by elevating it. This is especially true in humid climates where a spill or simply sweating while sleeping can cause mould and mildew to grow. Memory foam mattresses are especially susceptible to mould growth. The tight seal it creates on the floor prevents proper air circulation. Mold spores can also dormantly exist in hardwood floors. Placing a mattress on top may activate them due to the cool, dark environment created beneath.
The frame and box spring or slats, possibly the most important factor to consider, add another level of comfort by allowing it to be more resilient and responsive to continued use.

Cons of a bed frame:

After reading all of the benefits, it may appear that using one is a no-brainer. But don’t be too quick to make a decision. While there aren’t as many drawbacks, there are still a few things to think about. It all depends on your unique needs and circumstances.

If you have a bad back, putting your mattress on a bed frame may cause it to become too soft, causing pain after prolonged use.
It is not cheap. Of course, they vary in price and complexity, but they all cost money. It’s something to think about, especially after a big move or other expenses. If you can’t afford one, remove the bedding and prop it up against the wall for a few hours every couple of weeks. It will completely dry out while benefiting from proper air circulation.
In the summer, the cooler air is closer to the ground. You can benefit from cooler draughts circulating the floor if you don’t have a frame. As a result, you may be able to keep your utility bills low while still enjoying the same level of comfort overnight.
They add height to your mattress, which may be an issue. If the bed is being used by children, seniors, or people with limited mobility, it may be best to keep it on the floor for ease of access. Even owners of small pets may want to keep their mattress on the floor so their pets can jump on it easily.
It is not conducive to people who choose to follow Montessori principles or detachment parenting techniques. For young children, the Montessori method recommends using a lowered bed near the ground to promote freedom of movement while sleeping. For small children who are afraid of heights, being close to the ground can provide an element of safety. Detachment parenting encourages you to sleep with your child on a bed near the ground for the first few months before transitioning to separate beds in the same room. This method of parenting emphasises the same foundation of comfort and security.

Conclusion

Although it may appear to be counter-intuitive at first, sleeping on the floor has numerous advantages for many people. Aside from the financial aspect, people frequently report improved health. They have more mobility and less pain and soreness. It is the most compelling reason to give it a shot.

Sleeping on the floor is not the healthiest option for everyone, but it is worth considering, especially if you have an old mattress that dips in the middle. The luxury of a good mattress isn’t going away, but it’s not always the best way to sleep. Allow yourself plenty of time. Have fun exploring your options!

For the best sleep, alternate between sleeping on the floor and sleeping on your back.