Embracing Floor Sleeping: A Journey to Health and Comfort
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Chapter 1: The Shift to Floor Sleeping
During our recent relocation from Queensland to New South Wales, we made the unconventional choice to start sleeping on the floor. After selling most of our larger furniture, including our beds, we initially settled for just mattresses on the floor paired with some yoga mats. However, we soon realized that even our firm mattresses felt overly soft.
After noticing a slight improvement in our back pain since ditching the bedframes, we decided it was time for a more significant change. Our research led us to a YouTube channel by Mike Chang, who seemed knowledgeable and healthy. Inspired by his insights and several other videos, we sold our mattresses and opted to sleep on yoga mats and blankets just days before moving.
The first three nights were challenging. I particularly felt discomfort in my shoulders while lying on my side, and my hips experienced considerable tension. Nonetheless, with the focus on our major move, there was little time to second-guess our decision, and our children adapted surprisingly well, enjoying better sleep than before.
Upon arriving in New South Wales, we were equipped only with our yoga mats and camping sleeping bags. After some experimentation, adding a wool blanket transformed our makeshift sleeping arrangement into a cozy 2m x 2m space for the family.
There are various opinions regarding the health implications of floor sleeping. Salespeople at mattress stores would likely argue against it, emphasizing the necessity of high-quality foam mattresses that could cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
However, reflecting on our family's transition from conventional beds to sleeping on the floor with just mats and blankets, the initial discomfort quickly faded. My lower back pain vanished entirely, and I've come to find floor sleeping incredibly comfortable. My sleep has deepened significantly, leaving me feeling more refreshed upon waking.
In the future, we hope to invest in a traditional Asian-style futon bed, although they can be pricey. For now, we appreciate the absence of bed frames that previously caused bumps and bruises, and our children can no longer fall out of bed.
Interestingly, floor sleeping has its perks when it comes to intimacy—there's no noise or movement except for what we bring.
My legs have strengthened considerably as I frequently rise from the floor, often without using my hands, which keeps my legs engaged. This practice has integrated itself into my daily routine, enhancing my overall fitness and strength.
The impact of this simple change on my quality of life is remarkable. I genuinely believe that conventional beds are overrated, and our Western lifestyle may be contributing to our ailments.
As a yoga instructor, I often encounter individuals over 55 who begin practicing yoga because of limited mobility. While it’s never too late to establish healthy habits, it’s disheartening to witness the state of our society.
Floor sleeping may not suit everyone, but if you feel inclined to explore this path, I wholeheartedly support you.
Sending a big virtual hug,
Namasté
Alina
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Chapter 2: Insights on Floor Sleeping
Discover the benefits of sleeping on the floor and how it can enhance your health and well-being in this insightful video by Powfu.
Explore the artistic representation of floor sleeping in this official video from The Lumineers, reflecting on the simplicity and comfort of this lifestyle choice.