Why sleeping on left side is beneficial
1. It supports the body in getting rid of toxins, waste and other unwanted materials
According to Ayurvedic tradition, sleeping on your left side bolsters the lymphatic system, allowing your body to better filter lymph fluid and waste via the lymph nodes. In this respect, your sleeping position makes a difference, because the left side of the body is the dominant lymphatic side. Furthermore, new research has found that sleeping on the left side can allow the body to clear waste chemicals from the brain more efficiently. In contrast, sleeping on your right side decreases the lymphatic system's efficiency.
2. It is good for the heart
Sleeping on your left side improves circulation to the heart. This theory is based on the idea of how gravity can facilitate both lymph drainage toward the heart, as well as circulation away from the heart.
3. It may reduce heartburn
According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology, lying on the left side can help reduce acid reflux symptoms. On the contrary, lying on the right side may aggravate the symptoms. So, if you're struggling with heart burn, lie down on your left side for 10 minutes to alleviate the symptoms.
4. It may improve digestion
The idea that sleeping on your left side may improve digestion simply stems from a matter of gravity. The theory is that lying on the left side allows food waste to move easily from the large intestine into the colon. Therefore, this means that you are more likely to have a bowel movement upon waking. This sleeping position also allows the stomach and pancreas to hang naturally, as both organs are predominantly located on the left side. It may also better channel the gastric juices and easily promote the secretion of pancreatic enzymes. It therefore enables digestion to work little by little instead of all at once, which is what tends to happen when we sleep on the right side
5. It may alleviate back pain
Sleeping on the left side can relieve pressure on the spine, and is therefore ideal for people who suffer from chronic back pain, allowing them to feel more comfortable and get a good night's sleep.
6. It is beneficial for pregnant women
Besides boosting blood circulation, sleeping on the left side can also help relieve pressure on the back, keeping the uterus from squeezing the liver. This sleeping position also increases blood flow to the uterus, kidneys and fetus. more