What is your pillow?

 What is your pillow?

More and more people carry their pillow wherever they go. Ignacio Fernández, secretary general of Asocama (Spanish Association of the Bed) points out that up to 10% of athletes carry their pillow with them because the athletes themselves say that sleeping on a different surface affects their sports performance more than changing schedules and environment. The importance of the pillow when resting is such that, although the quality of the mattress is optimal, a bad pillow can cause us to have a bad night. In the words of those responsible for the Council of Physiotherapists' Colleges, "more than 66% of the population has an episode of neck pain throughout their lives" , and it seems that this is largely due to the use of an inappropriate surface.

- What is your pillow and Pillows Product

The pillow is a very personal item. So much so, that experts assure that there is no ideal choice: the suitability of the type of firmness (soft, medium or hard) and the height (high, medium or low) depend on the habits at bedtime and the constitution from each person. Keep in mind that the function of the pillow is to fill the gaps that are created between the head and the trunk so that the spine remains in the correct position. This is why you should choose a different pillow based on how you sleep:

• If you sleep on your back, you should choose a pillow that is high enough to prevent your head from falling back, but without putting too much pressure on the muscles at the back of your neck. A medium height pillow (10-13 cm) is recommended.
• If you sleep on your side, the pillow should be thicker and more dense (up to 15 cm) to support your head and keep it aligned. The wider the shoulders, the thicker it should be. If it is not consistent enough, the head will fall towards the shoulder and the shoulder will bear the full weight.
• If you sleep on your stomach, the pillow should be thin and of little consistency (eight to 10 cm), because a pillow that is too high would force an excessive head rotation.
• Sleeping without any base is a serious mistake, since this would cause us to sleep with the neck turned and arched. According to the recommendations of the Council of Physiotherapists, the golden rule for choosing the appropriate centimeters is simple: “we stand in front of a wall as if it were our mattress. The distance between our face and the wall represents the height we must choose ”. To this equation we would have to add a few centimeters depending on the consistency of the pillow. If you sleep as a couple, it is recommended that each have an individual pillow adapted to their needs.

Seen from a commercial point of view, "those that are sold the most are those made of synthetic fibers, because there are many types and with very innovative materials", from NOVO SUEÑO, or the hollow silicone. This material is characterized by presenting a lower consistency than others; It is also fresh (perfect for those who sweat a lot), easy to wash and suitable for people with little weight and children from one year of age, since before this age it is recommended to sleep without a pillow. The latex ones, on the other hand, are higher and adapt well to the shape and weight of the head. On the other hand, memory foam ones react to body temperature, and are taller and firmer. It is also the material that is currently developing new compositions, which states that the model (made of memory foam) is the most sold by our clients. The main benefit of wool and cotton is that they are hypoallergenic, although their excessive consistency makes them not recommended for people who sleep on their stomachs. On the other hand, the feather or down surfaces provide a high level of comfort and breathability, and are characterized by having low density, but they are not suitable for allergy sufferers.

the pillowsRectangular, smooth and without added features are a thing of the past. Now each particular need finds its solution in the market. There are some with hygienic treatments (anti-mites, antibacterials, that dissipate odors ...) or that prevent snoring, incorporating a postural device that helps to adopt a lateral position during rest. Some models are wedge-shaped to keep the head elevated and the airway open. There are also butterfly-shaped or anatomical bases that mimic the shape of the neck to help support it and avoid cervical ailments. The tubulars can be used for different parts of the body: cervical, lumbar or between the knees. The 'C' shaped angles are indicated for those who like to sleep hugging the pillow and the elongated ones are ideal for pregnant women. A good rest begins with the feet, and therefore these can also have their own base, which by raising the lower extremities favors circulation.

Travel is no longer a cause for discomfort if you carry a neck pillow, usually made up of air. There are also filled with seeds, which can be used in heat and cold therapies (either heated in the microwave or cooled in the fridge). Some incorporate dried herbs that offer an aromatic effect to promote sleep, relieve muscle aches or migraines. There are even some pillows that have aloe vera.