You have just the right pillow to support your neck and head. Now, why not consider a body pillow as well? Body pillows are oversized pillows designed to extend that comfort and support to your entire body. In a sense, they cradle your body during rest and sleep, promoting deeper, more relaxing sleep. They are particularly useful for those who sleep on their side.
Pillows come in a variety of sizes, shapes and fillings and the perfect one for you will depend on a number of factors. The most common shape is a long, rectangular pillow ranging from about 36 inches to full body length. This can be used either to support the back during sleep or in the front to separate the knees and ankles, helping to reduce those pressure points. Ordinary pillows can be used in a similar manner, but they tend to shift too much during the night and compress too much as well, eventually providing little support even if they stay in place.
An alternative to the typical pillow is one that is constructed in a "U" shape, designed to surround the body, providing not only back support, but support to the head, neck and the front of the body as well. This type of pillow cocoons or nests the body during sleep, keeping the body in place and relieving pressure. It is particularly useful for restless sleepers.
Consider the size of your bed before purchasing a body pillow. Large pillows might overwhelm the bed, and leave little room for your partner. If purchasing one for your child, limit yourself to the smaller pillows if she sleeps in a twin size bed. The pillow won't help much if she is falling out of bed at night!
As with regular pillows, a number of different fillings are available, and similar issues should be considered. Feathers and down are comfortable, but expensive, and may cause allergic responses. If you're allergic, but want the comfort of down, purchase a hypoallergenic pillow. Synthetics and foams are less costly, and have fewer health issues, but are not quite as soft. Viscoelastic foam, known as memory foam, can be a bit firm, but provides excellent support, relieves pressure points and maintains spinal alignment. The material is also hypoallergenic and resists the accumulation of dust mites.
Body pillows are often machine washable, but they are also often large and cumbersome. Always have a cover on them to keep them as clean as possible. Washing the cover is a lot easier, and your pillow will hold its shape a lot longer.
There are so many great types of body pillows and accessories including body pillow covers, Boppy Total body pillows, body pillow cases, a maternity body pillow, memory foam body pillows, full body pillows
Body pillows don't have to be used just for sleep. They make wonderful snugglers for you or the kids, when watching television or a movie, or when you just want to feel cozy on the couch. Kids will love them when watching television on the floor. Covers are available in a wide variety or colors and styles, and you can easily find one to match your decor. There's no need to hide them out of sight when not in use.