Are Firmer Mattresses Better?1

A firm mattress supports your body, protects your back and helps to ensure sound sleep. Soft mattresses, that offer little resistance, lead to muscle pain and back problems. Soft mattresses do not offer the support necessary for a sound, restorative night's sleep. They sag and your body sags with them. After a restless night of tossing and turning you, wake up feeling tired and distracted from lack of sleep. Your back aches; your energy is low and your mood often unpleasant. A good night's sleep is important to your health and well being. You wake rested, refreshed and self-confident, your attitude positive, your energy level high and your mind clear and focused. You are ready to face the challenges of your day.

Choosing the proper firm mattress is important. You do not want a mattress that is so rigid that it does not conform to your body. A too rigid mattress makes sleep difficult. It is not comfortable. Your shoulders and hips rest on the bed, but you find a gap between the small of your back and the mattress. The uneven amount of support leads to restlessness and broken sleep patterns. You often do not receive the necessary amount of sleep that you need to live your day fully. You may spend your waking hours feeling tired and distracted. You may not be as productive as you need to be. Finding a mattress that provides firm support yet yields to conform to the contours of your body is often the best solution.

Good sleeping habits and a firm mattress that conforms to your body ensure a good night's sleep. Purchase the right mattress and develop good sleeping habits. A quiet, comfortable, cool sleeping space leads to a good night of rest. Physical exercise during the day helps promote peaceful sleep. Avoiding television and computers in the later evening allows your mind to relax and prepare for sleep. Eliminating stimulants such as caffeine and alcohol close to your bedtime helps you enjoy deeper, more peaceful sleep. Avoid associating your bedroom with anything other than sleep and relaxation. Reading a relaxing book is good; working on a business proposal or making business calls is not.

What are the benefits of sound sleep? According to a recent study done by Columbia University a healthy metabolism and well-regulated blood sugar levels appears to depend on the amount of time a person sleeps each day. Individuals who sleep eight hours a night tend to have less problems with weight gain and obesity than people who sleep less than seven hours or more than nine hours a night. Choosing the proper mattress with the perfect amount of firmness and support for your body is important to good health and helps with weight control. Establishing good sleeping habits will enhance the benefits of your firm mattress. You will maintain your energy level throughout your day, will feel less stress and meet challenges, interruptions and sudden changes in your schedule with more equilibrium. Your attitude will remain positive and you will enjoy the world around you more.