Tired of sleeping alone? You might not be the only one! Have you ever wondered why some people don’t just go to bed without a pillow hug? Or why is your neighbor so attached to their pillow? Well, here’s your chance to find out!
The different types of pillows to hug while sleeping
When sleeping, some people choose to hug a pillow. This can be comforting as it can replicate the sensation of a hug from another person.
They come in different types and materials, which can often make choosing the right one difficult. Knowing the benefits and drawbacks of each type can help you find the perfect pillow for your sleep routine.
- Down pillows are made with feathers that have been processed so they provide uniform support and fluffiness. They last longer than synthetic pillows and are slightly more expensive, but they may cause allergic reactions in some people. For those who prefer a more unique and plush option, a long cat plush pillow is a great choice.
- Synthetic pillows provide soft but firm support, making them ideal for stomach sleepers. They come in different densities, so you can get a pillow that fits your personal preference without breaking the bank—but they may not hold up as well over time as more expensive options.
Source: vencasa.co.za - Memory foam pillows are created with viscoelastic material that contours to the shape of your body for maximum comfort and support throughout the night. They don’t trap heat like other types do, which is great for hot sleepers; however, they usually have a chemical smell when new and may be too firm for some people’s preferences.
- Latex pillows offer superior breathability compared to other materials since they’re designed with holes that allow air to move freely around it while sleeping; however, they can get heavy quickly and tend to cost more than other options.
The benefits of hugging a pillow while sleeping
The feeling of being hugged can be comforting and relaxing for many people, however the positive effects of hugging a pillow go beyond the simple satisfaction that it provides. There are several different benefits associated with sleeping with a pillow in your arms.
Reduce stress and help relax
It’s been scientifically proven that these comforting touches can lower cortisol levels and reduce anxiety. Plus, the act of physically embracing something has been found to trigger an emotional response in the limbic system – otherwise known as your brain’s emotional control switch – making it easier to drift off into dreamland.
Align your spine while you sleep
As long as you use an adequately sized soft or medium-firm pillow, it will provide support for your head, neck, and shoulders throughout the night – allowing for proper spine alignment when you wake up in the morning.
Cope with loneliness or difficult emotions
Many people use pillows to cope with loneliness or difficult emotions such as grief or loss. This habit isn’t something to be ashamed of – everyone needs comfort from time to time!
If nothing else works, giving yourself a hug may just be the answer to reconnecting with how you’re feeling emotionally and making sure that your physical needs are taken care of as well.
Conclusion
In conclusion, although a simple pillow hug may not appear to provide much benefit, it could be an important source of health benefits and mental comfort for many people.
Although some experts suggest that hugging a pillow decreases spinal alignment, there is no evidence showing that this is the case for people who sleep on their side or back.
Therefore, if you are someone who sleeps on their side or back, hugging a pillow can help provide spine support and additional cushioning – something that cannot truly be replicated by just another human hug.
