Maybe you didn’t know that the first known pillows date back to Ancient Mesopotamia, where they were made of stone and reserved for the wealthy. Unlike those hard stone pillows, today the ones we use are soft and fluffy, and a lot of people find it hard to sleep without their favorite cozy pillow. Yet, sleeping with a pillow may not always be the best choice for your body and overall health.

We know that parting with your favorite pillow might be difficult, but sleeping without one offers several health benefits. We’ve done the research to bring you the key advantages.

1. It Prevents Back Pain

Sleeping without a pillow can help to reduce back pain. Many pillows make contribution to unnatural sleeping positions, and the support they provide doesn’t last long. Though the pillow itself doesn’t directly cause back pain, it can aggravate existing discomfort. Sleeping without a pillow enables your spine to rest in its natural alignment, promoting better posture and reducing strain.

2. It Helps Relieve Neck Pain

Many pillows don’t offer the proper support for your neck, causing discomfort or worsening neck pain. Bending your neck in an unnatural position for long periods, especially with pillows that are too firm or too soft, can lead to tension and soreness. Sleeping without a pillow can help your neck to remain in a neutral position, reducing stress on your muscles.

3. It Combats Headaches

If you wake up with headaches or feel light-headed, your pillow might be the reason. High pillows or those that cause your head to tilt forward can add pressure to the neck muscles, resulting in tension headaches. By forgoing the pillow, you may find relief from morning headaches and improve your overall comfort while sleeping.

4. It Alleviates Stress

An uncomfortable pillow can disrupt your sleep, causing tossing and turning throughout the night. Frequent sleep disturbances mean your body has less time to undergo important restorative functions. Sleep deprivation can have negative effects on your mood, cognitive function, and increase the production of stress hormones during the day. Sleeping without a pillow might help reduce these disruptions and promote more restful sleep.

5. It Prevents Facial Acne

Your pillowcase might be contributing to skin issues, especially if it isn’t washed regularly. Throughout the night, your face presses against the pillow, collecting oils, dirt, and dust. These particles can lead to breakouts, irritation, and premature wrinkles. Sleeping without a pillow can minimize this contact and allow your skin to stay cleaner.

6. It May Be Beneficial for Your Hair

If you wake up with tangled, dry hair, your pillow might be to blame. When you toss and turn, your hair rubs against the pillowcase, which can lead to breakage. Pillowcases can also absorb oils from your hair, leaving it dry and brittle. Sleeping without a pillow might help to reduce this friction and keep your hair healthier.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. For professional advice and diagnosis, please consult your doctor.