The Science of Sleep

A woman enjoying a restful night's sleep.

How Your Body Heals and Recharges in Bed

Sleep. It’s a simple concept, yet scientists and medical professionals will tell you it’s as vital to our health as a balanced diet or regular exercise. During sleep, our bodies enter a state of restorative slumber, helping to repair tissues, consolidate memories and regulate hormones.

But what if your bed, the very place designed to promote sleep, is hindering your ability to rest comfortably? The science of sleep, also known as somnology, has revealed a fascinating connection between our sleep quality and the comfort and support offered by our bed frames and mattresses.

Here at Home Treats UK, we understand the importance of a good night’s sleep for overall health and well-being. As such this article will delve into the science behind sleep and explores how different mattress types can benefit those suffering from back pain, hip issues and other medical conditions. We’ll also explore the debate on bed height and mattress firmness, helping you choose the perfect sleep haven for a healthier you, with many fantastic options available in our online bed store.

The Stages of Sleep

A good night’s sleep isn’t just about lying still for eight hours. It’s a complex process divided into four distinct stages. You may have apps on your phone which denote when you are in each of these sleep stages, which is a good way to track if you’re getting enough of each. REM stands for Rapid Eye Movement, by the way.

  • Non-REM 1 (NREM 1): This is the lightest stage of sleep, where your brain waves slow down and muscle activity gently decreases.
  • Non-REM 2 (NREM 2): Brain waves slow further and your body temperature drops.
  • Non-REM 3 (NREM 3): Often referred to as “deep sleep,” this stage is crucial for physical restoration. Your brain waves become even slower and your body temperature lowers further. This is when tissue repair, bone growth and muscle strengthening occur.
  • REM Sleep: This is the stage of sleep associated with dreaming. Brain waves become similar to those when you’re awake and your eyes move rapidly despite being closed. REM sleep is essential for memory consolidation and emotional processing.

Throughout these stages, your body undergoes various restorative processes. Here’s a closer look at how sleep impacts various aspects of your health:

  • Physical Restoration: During NREM 3 (deep sleep), your body releases growth hormones, which aid in tissue repair and muscle growth. Proper sleep also helps regulate the immune system, making you more resistant to illness and injuries.
  • Mental Wellbeing: Sleep deprivation can significantly impact mood and cognitive function. Getting enough quality sleep improves focus, concentration and decision-making abilities. REM sleep plays a crucial role in emotional regulation and memory consolidation. It’s no surprise that there is a clear link between poor mental health and poor sleep.
  • Overall Health: Chronic sleep problems are also linked to a higher risk of developing various health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes and obesity. Adequate sleep is also essential for maintaining a healthy weight and regulating hormones that control hunger levels.

How Your Bed Affects Your Sleep

Now that we understand the importance of sleep for overall mental and physical health, let’s explore how your mattress can either help or hinder a good night’s rest. The primary function of a mattress is to provide proper spinal alignment and support throughout the night. Here’s how different mattress types can impact those with back pain, hip issues and other medical conditions:

  • Innerspring Mattresses: These traditional mattresses utilise a network of interconnected coils to provide support. Modern innerspring mattresses come in various firmness levels to cater to different sleeping styles.
    • Advantages: Innerspring mattresses can be a good choice for those who prefer a more traditional and responsive sleeping surface. Firmer innerspring mattresses can be beneficial for back sleepers who require extra spinal support.
    • Disadvantages: Older innerspring mattresses can lose their supportive qualities over time, leading to sagging and potential back pain. Additionally, some individuals may find the coil system uncomfortable, especially those who are sensitive in certain areas of their body.
  • Memory Foam Mattresses: These mattresses are known for their pressure-relieving properties. A memory foam mattress conforms to the body’s contours, alleviating pressure points and providing a cradling sensation.
    • Advantages: Memory foam mattresses are a popular choice for those suffering from back pain, hip pain and arthritis. The pressure-relieving properties can significantly improve comfort and reduce sleep disruptions caused by pain.
    • Disadvantages: Memory foam can retain heat, which may be uncomfortable for hot sleepers. Additionally, some individuals may find the conforming nature of memory foam too restrictive, especially for combination sleepers who frequently change positions throughout the night.
  • Hybrid Mattresses: These mattresses combine innerspring coils with layers of memory foam or other pressure-relieving materials. They offer a balance of support and comfort, as you’d expect from something called hybrid.
    • Advantages: Hybrid mattresses can be a good choice for those who desire the support of an innerspring mattress with the pressure-relieving comfort of memory foam. They cater to a wider range of sleeping styles and preferences.
    • Disadvantages: Hybrid mattresses can be a pricier option compared to traditional innerspring mattresses. However, the potential for improved sleep quality and pain relief often justifies the investment.
    • Finding the Perfect Balance: Firmness and Support

    The debate on whether a firm or soft mattress is best for sleep is a common one. There’s no single perfect “one-size-fits-all” answer, as individual comfort preferences and body types play a significant role. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of different mattress firmness levels:

    • Firm Mattresses: These mattresses offer a more supportive sleep surface, promoting proper spinal alignment. They are often recommended for back sleepers who require extra lumbar support.
      • Advantages: Firm mattresses can be best for back pain or lower back issues. The added support can help maintain proper spinal curvature throughout the night.
      • Disadvantages: Very firm mattresses may not be suitable for side sleepers, as they can put excessive pressure on the shoulders and hips. Additionally, some individuals may find firm mattresses too uncomfortable, especially those who prefer a softer sleep surface.
    • Soft Mattresses: These mattresses conform to the body’s curves, providing a more plush and pressure-relieving sleep experience. They are often favoured by side sleepers.
      • Advantages: Soft mattresses can alleviate pressure points on the shoulders and hips, improving comfort for side sleepers. They may also be suitable for those with certain medical conditions, such as arthritis, where minimising pressure on sensitive joints is crucial.
      • Disadvantages: Very soft mattresses may not provide adequate support for the lower back, especially for back sleepers. This can lead to misalignment and potential back pain. Additionally, soft mattresses may not be ideal for those who sink in too deeply and have difficulty changing positions throughout the night.

    Ultimately, the best mattress firmness is the one that provides proper spinal alignment and alleviates any existing pressure points. Here at Home Treats UK, we offer a variety of mattress firmness options to cater to individual needs and preferences, which you can browse in our mattresses collection.

    The Great Bed Height Debate: High vs. Low Beds

    The height of your bed may seem like a trivial detail, but it can impact your ease of getting in and out of bed, especially for those with mobility limitations. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of different bed heights:

    • High Beds: These beds typically sit 24 inches or higher from the floor.
      • Advantages: High beds offer a more luxurious aesthetic and can make it easier to get in and out of bed, particularly for those with mobility issues or joint pain. They can also provide additional storage space underneath the bed frame, especially ottoman beds.
      • Disadvantages: High beds may not be suitable for young children or those with balance problems who may have difficulty climbing into bed.
    • Low Beds: These beds sit closer to the floor, typically between 18-22 inches high.
      • Advantages: Low beds can create a more contemporary and streamlined look in a bedroom, favoured by minimalists. They are also a safer option for young children and those with balance concerns.
      • Disadvantages: Low beds may be difficult for those with mobility issues or joint pain to get in and out of. Additionally, they offer less storage space underneath the bed frame.

    As with many things, the ideal bed height is a personal preference. Consider your mobility, the aesthetics of your bedroom and your storage needs when making a decision.

    How Home Treats UK Can Help Your Sleep

    At Home Treats UK, we understand that a good night’s sleep starts with the right mattress. We offer a variety of mattress types, including sprung, memory foam and hybrid options, in various firmness levels to cater to your individual needs and preferences. We also offer a wide selection of bed frames in different styles and heights to complete your sleep haven.

    Our sleep experts are always happy to answer your questions and guide you towards the perfect mattress and bed frame combination for a restful night’s sleep. Feel free to contact our experts.