Sleeping position affects more than comfort — it can influence digestion, circulation, and even immune function. Research and traditional health practices suggest resting on the left side aligns the body with gravity in a way that supports internal organs.
Because the stomach sits mostly on the left, this posture helps keep acid below the esophagus, reducing heartburn and reflux. It also assists the lymphatic system, whose main drainage duct lies on the left side, allowing the body to filter waste more efficiently overnight.
Left-side sleeping may also improve digestion. Gravity helps move waste through the intestines more smoothly, lowering the chances of morning bloating or constipation. The spleen benefits from improved blood flow, while the liver experiences less pressure from surrounding organs.
For pregnant women, doctors often recommend this position because it improves circulation to the heart and placenta by relieving pressure on major veins.
Though changing habits takes time, using pillows for support can train the body — turning sleep into a quiet tool for better overall health.
