FETAL

On your side with your knees tucked up toward your chest

A popular position especially amongst women , fetal sleeping indicates tough exteriors and secretly sensitive hearts . Research suggests that those who curl up in this child-like pose are worriers who keenly feel the need to be sheltered and understood . If you take up this protective position , psychologists suggest you are protecting yourself from the outside world and its woes .

Your sleep health : Though comforting , the fetal position can be stressful for the body . It restricts airways , hampers breathing , and puts physical strain on the back and neck . Some studies suggest that fetal sleeping can worsen the formation of wrinkles .

FREEFALL

Face-down with arms outstretched

Freefall sleepers are bold , free spirits who possess playful personalities . But underneath their exteriors , freefallers can be sensitive and lacking in self-confidence . Behind closed doors , there might be a tendency to fixate on how people might be judging them .

Your sleep health : In order to breathe easily , a freefaller will likely have to turn her neck to one side during sleep . As this goes against the natural curve of the back , this position can put strain on the neck , potentially leading to chronic neck and shoulder pain and muscle spasms . A side sleep position could be a better solution .

SOLDIER

On your back with both arms straight by your side

It ’ s no surprise that soldiers are frequently perceived as inflexible . This rigid position indicates living by strict moral codes and holding high expectations of others . Soldiers are usually well-adjusted , though , and have a set of strong personal goals they strive to achieve .

Your sleep health : If you have back and neck pain ( and do not snore ), this is a good way to sleep because it aligns the spine and reduces nerve pressure . Like the yearning stance , soldier sleeping can worsen acid reflux . An extra pillow beneath your head combats the effects of reflux .

HERON

On your back with one leg bent and raised to the side

Herons may be impulsive but also enjoy the predictability of the minutia in their lives , and major life decisions are often a struggle for herons who feel torn between spontaneity and routine .

Your sleep health : More than a nighttime niggle for your bed partner , sleep apnea is a serious condition that is worsened by sleeping on the back . Gravity forces the base of the tongue to fall into our airways when we lie on our backs , which obstructs breathing . If you don ’ t snore , don ’ t worry . The good news is that this style — compared to face-compressing positions such as the fetal pose — will put you at less risk for face wrinkling .

THE YEARNER

On your side with both arms outstretched

Side dozers are often social butterflies who are particularly adaptable to change . Though you may be popular and carefree , yearners are also more likely to be suspicious , cynical and slow at decision-making . Stretching out your arms while you snooze may suggest you ’ re yearning for more in life or looking for the next challenge to conquer .

Your sleep health : Research suggests that sleeping on your side can worsen acid reflux , particularly if you snooze on your right . A body pillow can help alleviate this problem , and a pillow placed between your knees can offer essential support to your back .