Sleeping well is essential for health and well -being. With the aim of improving the quality of rest, the POT designed a posture called “Zero gravity”originally conceived for minimize pressure on astronauts during space takeoffs. With the passage of time, this position was Adopted on Earth as an effective strategy for Optimize sleep.
This position was identified in NASA studies during the 1970swhen scientists analyzed the natural positions that the human body adopts in an environment without gravity. It was at the space station Skylab where it was determined that a neutral alignment of the body decreased the pressure on muscles and jointsreducing the impact of spatial acceleration.
The position consists of go upside down with your head and legs slightly high on the level of the heart, which favors the column alignment. “The pressure on the body is relieved and muscle relaxation is optimized,” explains rest specialist Harry Arnett.
The benefits of sleeping in NASA’s zero gravity posture
One of the main positive effects of this posture is the improvement of blood flow. By raising the legs, venous return is facilitatedreducing the pressure in the limbs. The expert in sleep therapy Tim Mercerof the Oxford Universitypoints out that this configuration “Reduces the effort of the veins in the extremities lower and relieve tensions in muscles and joints. “
It also contributes to a Best body weight distributionwhich reduces back pressure and joints, especially benefiting those who suffer lumbar pain or arthritis.
In addition, sleeping with a slightly high head favors the Opening of the Respiratory routeswhich reduces snoring episodes and sleep apnea. According to Mercer, this position “Relieves the pressure on the joints, facilitates the alignment of the spine and improves breathing“
This benefit is crucial for those who suffer Obstructive sleep apneasince it helps avoid the obstruction of the respiratory tract and improves the quality of night rest.
On the other hand, it offers greater relaxation and repair wheelby generating a feeling of anxiety that promotes deep relaxation. To the Relieve the pressure in the column and improve circulation, facilitates entry into deep and repairing phases of sleep.
According to the Cleveland Clinicbetween a third and half of the adult population in USA experience Insomnia symptoms. Implementing this position can help to reconcile the dream more quickly and maintain better stability in the stages of rest.
How to adopt posture
It is not necessary to be in space to benefit from this position. You can follow some methods to achieve it at home without the need for advanced equipment. It is best to adopt it as follows, according to experts:
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Head and back: Place a firm pillow or a foam wedge under the upper back and head to raise them slightly.
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Knees: Use a cushion or a pillow under the knees to keep them high and relieve pressure in the lower back.
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Lumbar area: Add a small cushion or lumbar roll to provide additional support to the natural curvature of the column.
This position, derived from aerospace studies, has become a Key Allied to improve sleep quality and general well -being. Its adoption can make a difference in the search for optimal and healthy break.
Source: Ambito
