Meaning of Sleeping Positions: What Your Sleep Position Says About You

Is the fetal position most comfortable for you? (This is when a sleeper is curled up, sleeping in a ball as they lie on one side with legs and arms bent.) If so, you likely show the world a hard front. But on the inside, you're a massive softie.  

So, what’s the fetal position psychology? According to Reader’s Digest, here's what Chris Idzikowski, Ph.D. had to say. “Those who favor the side-lying fetal position tend to be sensitive but may project a tough exterior⁽²⁾.”

You also tend to be shy initially but quickly relax around new company.

This is the sleep position that resembles skydiving. You sleep in the prone sleeping position, with your arms wrapped around a cushion and your head tilted to the side.

You likely have a “larger than life” personality. However, you’re not very good at handling criticism or tricky situations.

Are you asking “Why do I sleep on my stomach with one leg bent?” The mountain climber sleeping position is a variation of the free faller where you lie in prone position with one arm and leg extended. Personality-wise, this sleep posture is much like that of the free faller.

As the name suggests, the yearner position is when you look as though you’re reaching out while side sleeping.

Yearners are typically very cautious when making decisions. But once you've made up your mind, there’s no going back!

Ever asked yourself, "Why do I sleep with my arms crossed on my chest?”    

This position means back sleeping, with arms straight by your sides or folded on your chest. It's creepy, to say the least. In fact, some call it the vampire sleeping position.

This sleep posture means you likely have a quiet personality and live your life to a high moral standard.

The starfish position means sleeping with arms above head and your legs extended. Imagine an actual starfish, and you’ll get a general idea of how you position yourself.

Those who sleep in the starfish (or shooting star) are usually trusting and good communicators. You’re a fabulous listener and usually the first to lend a helping hand. But you aren't the most considerate of bed partners.

This side sleeping position requires sleeping on your side, with your arms close. In general, you’re sociable, friendly and approachable.

However, sleeping in the log position might also mean your trusting nature can result in being gullible. It sometimes makes you an easy target for manipulation, which isn’t cool.

The Sealy survey suggested that left-side sleepers are more artistic.  

Those who prefer sleeping on their left are more likely to work in the creative industry, which includes advertising and marketing.

You're also more likely to have a higher level of education.

The same Sealy survey showed that right-side sleepers likely drink more caffeine. People who sleep in this side position may also enjoy the odd cigarette or two.

Also, more right-side sleepers surveyed work in the manufacturing and transportation industries. Who knew?

Did you know those who spoon with their spouse likely feel more cranky than solo sleepers?  

Couple positions like this one may indicate a blissfully happy relationship. But it has a downside. The Sleep Doctor says sleeping with someone else makes you 50% more likely to have a night of disturbances⁽³⁾!

It goes without saying sleep awakenings leave you tired and groggy the next day.

This position for back sleepers involves sleeping with your arms folded under your head as if you're stargazing.  

Stargazers, you fall asleep on your back with your arms enveloped around your head.

It may mean your friendships are your number one priority. You'll do anything to keep your buddies close to you. You also tend to be happy and an all-around positive person.

Do you love snuggling with your pillow while sleeping? (This is when you sleep on your side with a pillow or blanket between the knees.) There's a good chance you value your relationships.

It doesn't matter whether it's your spouse or colleague. You appreciate your connections with other people.

This hands under chin position is similar to the fetal position. Your hands may rest on your chin as well.

You may ask, “Why do I sleep with my hands tucked under my chin?” Thinkers are often guilty of allowing their emotions to get the best of them. If this is you, your intense passion makes it hard to balance your feelings. Sometimes, everyday life is difficult for you.