Best Direction to Sleep Scientifically

It is important to have a sound sleep of 7-8 hours every night to wake up fresh in the morning. Unfortunately, even though many people sleep for the recommended duration each night, they still feel fatigued and have difficulty focusing on their work. This may be because they aren’t sleeping in the right direction. No, we aren’t exaggerating. Your sleeping direction impacts your overall health and well-being. This theory is backed by scientific research. The ancient Indian science, Vastu Shastra also emphasizes the importance of choosing the correct direction for sleeping. We suppose your elders may have already suggested the best sleeping direction at some point or the other. Here, you will get a logical explanation behind the same.

In this article, we have shared detailed information about the best direction to sleep and the scientific reasons for it. We have also shared the directions one must strictly avoid while sleeping and why. Read on to understand how to improve the quality of your sleep as well as your overall health.

What’s the Best Direction to Sleep?

Let us begin by answering the question that has brought you to this page. In which direction we should sleep?  Scientific research conducted over the years shows that the electromagnetic energies of the earth tend to impact humans. This is because just like our planet has magnetic poles our bodies also have a magnetic compass. The earth’s positive magnetic pole is in the north direction and the negative pole is in the south. Likewise, our positive pole lies towards the head and the negative pole is towards the feet. Now, we all know that opposite sides of a magnet attract while the like poles will repel. This implies that when we lie down with our head towards the north, we are pointing our positive pole to the earth’s positive pole. Thus, the energy created is not good as there is constant repelling. This leads to disturbance in sleep and several health issues eventually.

Looking at the earth’s magnetic fields and their impact on our body, it is best to sleep with the head facing the south and your feet towards the north. This helps in creating harmony with nature and promotes a night of sound sleep in addition to offering a number of health benefits. Hence, knowing which direction to sleep scientifically is very important.

Benefits of Sleeping in South Direction

So, now you know which direction to sleep scientifically. The best sleeping direction is your head pointing towards the south. This is because in this way your body is naturally aligned to the forces of nature. Let us quickly look at the various benefits it offers:

• Since it promotes deep sleep, it gives your body adequate time to heal. The body repairs cells and releases essential hormones and proteins.
• It boosts better blood circulation and keeps the blood pressure levels in check.
• This sleeping direction promotes heart health and reduces the chances of heart problems.
• It enables the nerve cells to communicate and replenish thereby facilitating healthy functioning of the brain.
• It helps to get rid of toxic thoughts and unnecessary stress.
• You wake up fresh and energized after sleeping in this direction.
• As per Vastu Shastra, sleeping with your head towards the south also helps attract wealth and abundance.

Which Sleeping Direction to Avoid?

North

As already explained above, placing the head towards the north direction is not considered good for sleeping. It exerts pressure on the brain because of the magnetic pull. This will not only disturb the sleep but regularly sleeping in this direction can also have a negative impact on your mental as well as physical health. Sleeping in this direction can impact blood pressure levels adversely. It hinders the smooth pumping of blood. The blood flow in the brain’s capillaries slows down and impacts the proper functioning of the brain cells.  It has been observed that those who sleep in this direction for a prolonged period of time often complain of headaches and cardiovascular problems as the brain and heart are worst impacted due to this poor choice. Thus, North is not the best direction to sleep as per vastu in and this is one position that must be strictly avoided.

West

Most people do not know which direction to sleep in. Sleeping with the head pointing towards the west is also not a good choice if you want to enjoy a sound sleep. As per Vastu Shastra, sleeping this way can lead to restlessness. If you are a retired professional seeking a peaceful life ahead then you must particularly refrain from sleeping in this direction. However, ancient Indian science suggests that those seeking success can sleep with their head pointing towards the west. It keeps them driven to achieve their goals.

Is East a Good Direction for Sleeping?

Just like the South, east is also a great sleeping direction. As per Vastu Shastra, east is believed to be the best direction to sleep specially for kids as well as those treading the path of spiritual awakening. This is the direction of the rising sun and is thus full of positive energy. Studies suggest that those who sleep with their head pointing towards the east tend to have a comparatively shorter REM cycle and thus witness lesser dreams. So, in addition to promoting undisturbed sleep, it also boosts focus and sharpens memory. It also helps in balancing the three doshas – Vata, Pitta, and Kapha.

Which Side is Best for Sleeping in the Southern Hemisphere?

If you ask which direction is best for sleeping in India then the answer most definitely is either south or east. However, just in case you happen to live anywhere in the Southern Hemisphere or are planning to visit Australia, Brazil, or any other country down there you should sleep with your head pointing towards the south. Why? The reason is the same – earth’s magnetic pull. Any direction except the south is good for placing the head for those living in this part of the globe.

Which side is best for sleeping?

In addition to ensuring the right direction to sleep, one must also understand which side is best for sleeping in order to enjoy a good night’s sleep and maintain good health. Now, this may not be a one size fits all thing although experts largely suggest sleeping sideways. Sleeping on the left side is said to allow easy breathing which boosts bodily functions and aids in healing the body as you enjoy an undisturbed sleep with your head in the east or south direction. Those suffering from backache or pain in the neck are also suggested to sleep sideways to avoid aggravating the problem.

On the other hand, sleeping on your abdomen all night long can lead to health issues and should thus strictly be avoided. Some of you may think otherwise since lying on the abdomen is said to relax the body. In yoga, we are made to lie this way as a part of certain asanas. However, doing so for more than 15-20 minutes is not a good idea.

Takeaway

So, if you feel restless and tired even after sleeping for 7-8 hours each night then it is time to check your sleeping direction. You must either sleep with your head in the south or east direction. This will help you sleep peacefully and boost your overall health. Those living in the Northern Hemisphere must never sleep with their head pointing towards the north direction as it can cause disturbance in sleep and deteriorate health over time. Choosing the best direction to sleep as well as identifying the best position to sleep is extremely essential to ensure overall good health and well-being.

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