A guest post written by Jesse Crow, Owner of Rest Right Mattress
Sleep is often cited as a good way to grow taller due to its part in growth during puberty. However, those who are already tall need quality sleep, too. It’s during slumber that our bodies work to restore muscles, bones, and other tissues. It’s what makes us retain information that we have learned throughout the day. Sleep plays a part in nearly every aspect of human biology. Due to personal height, it may be burdensome for tall sleepers to get comfortable enough to sleep well. Fortunately, there are some things that can be done to address the specific issues that tall people face when it comes to sleep.
Common Sleep Problems Tall People Face
A person’s height can have effects on their sleep because most sleep products aren’t made with tall people in mind. Most of the industry’s products are made for average people, of average height and weight. Traditional beds, mattresses and bedding satisfy the needs of a large population, just not those who would be considered tall. Trying to use standard size beds can lead to a huge assortment of problems. A few include:
- Inability to Stretch: Being confined to a mattress surface area that doesn’t allow you to relax can impede sleep.
- Soreness and Cramps: Forcing yourself to “fit” on a bed that is too small may result in short- or long-term pain.
- Back Pain and Neck Discomfort: It is important to maintain good sleep posture and when that isn’t possible, problems like these arise.
- Restless Sleep: Whether it is because the blankets don’t provide sufficient coverage or the positioning is uncomfortable, sleep disruptions can occur.
How Much Sleep Tall People Need
Accurate sleep need estimates aren’t based on your height. Tall people won’t necessarily need any more or less sleep than short people. Rather, it is essential that each person learn how much sleep they need based on individual needs. The National Sleep Foundation has set forth a guideline that shows needed sleep duration by age. However, those listed are simply suggestions based on the average needs of person’s in each age category. Other factors will come into play when establishing your distinct needs, including activity level and metabolism.
Bed Size – Length and Width
Bed dimensions can cater towards a taller individual’s needs. Traditional mattress and base sizes generally come in Twin, TwinXL, Full, FullXL, Queen, and King. California King is the largest common size, though not all retailers will carry it. The California King measures 72” wide and 84” in length. There are also custom sizes available for those who may need more than seven feet in length or prefer a wider bed. These sizes generally cost more but can be worth it depending on your height. The Alaskan King is the largest of these at 108 inches wide and 108 inches long. Other options include Wyoming and Texas King beds.
Bedroom Accommodations for Couples of Varying Height
One alternative to the Cali King bed is a split California King adjustable bed. This size comes in two pieces for convenience of setup. It also caters to tall people in a relationship. That’s because each side can be adjusted separately. Both the tall person and his/her short spouse, can get comfortable side by side. This type and size of bed provides ample leg room while also providing multiple benefits via useful features. For example, massage can help you both relax. Other features can help undo some of the effects tall people may suffer from previously using a bed that was too small.
Bed Height – It’s Important, Too
Over time, getting in and out of a bed that is too short can end up hurting your knees. The best bed height will allow you to sit on the side with your feet flat on the floor. Your knees should be at or very near a 90-degree angle. There are a few ways to make a bed taller. First, you can try using a thicker mattress. Mattress depths can range from 8 inches to as much as 13 or 14 inches thick. A second way to make the bed higher is by using adjustable legs. Another way to add height is by utilizing a box spring.
Tips and Tricks
Once you have a good supportive bed set up that is large enough for you, try these tips to get better sleep.
- Cut out late night meals.
- Shut off electronics prior to bedtime.
- Keep the bedroom dark.
- Maintain a comfortable bedroom temperature as you sleep.
- Enjoy a warm bath before bed.
- Go to sleep at the same time daily.
Being tall doesn’t mean you can’t get good, quality sleep. Just like finding proper sized shirts, you must find the correct size bed for your stature. Then, practice good sleep hygiene. You’ll be sleeping comfortably and reaping all the benefits of good sleep in no time!
