Helpful reasons to sleep on the floor
Helpful reasons to sleep on the floor
Anyone who has ever been to Japan knows that it is customary there to sleep on a kind of mattress, called a futon, on the floor. Traditionally, the term futon in Japan refers to the combination of a futon mattress and a futon cover.
There are many reasons why the Japanese prefer to sleep on the ground. However, none of these reasons have to do with the well-known limited space of small Japanese apartments or with Japanese tradition, as one might think at first glance. It turns out that sleeping on the floor has some pretty impressive health benefits.
So here are 5 reasons why the Japanese sleep on the floor and why we should too:
1. Less back pain
Sleeping on a hard, flat surface is good for your back and can relieve it of pain. However, while sleeping on a soft bed is certainly comfortable, the mattress can sag over time, causing the spine to gradually curve, causing back pain. Sleeping on the floor keeps the spine straight and prevents the body from twisting into an unnatural position.
2. Better blood circulation
Sleeping on the floor promotes blood circulation because it distributes weight evenly and puts less pressure on different parts of the body.
3. Easier to get up
If you have trouble getting out of bed in the morning, you’re probably like most of us. Many people struggle with themselves when the alarm clock rings, and are tempted to hit the snooze button over and over again. Sleeping on the floor, on the other hand, allows for optimal sleep quality and quantity, and you generally wake up feeling more rested and motivated.
4. Improved posture
If you sleep in the right position and your spine is properly supported, it’s easier to keep your back straight during the day. Sleeping on the floor can also help correct poor posture.
5. Financial Benefits
In addition to the aforementioned health benefits of a Japanese futon, this sleeping concept also has a clear financial advantage. On average, it takes about 800 euros for a mattress; an amount almost reduced to nothing with the Japanese sleeping alternative, since you do not have to buy a bed frame, box spring, etc.
People with allergies, people with bone diseases as well as the elderly, and people with reduced mobility should approach this concept of alternative sleep more cautiously or forget about it completely if necessary, as there is a risk of side effects. negative for them. Still, for everyone else, it might be worth a try! If that doesn’t suit you, you can always go back to your bed.
