The Japanese Secret For A Good Night’s Sleep

The Japanese concept of sleeping on a Tatami mat on the floor is unique and perfect for a good night’s sleep. 

(There are no affiliate links in this post. This article was researched and written for general health information and should not be considered without prior medical advice from an expert physician).

A good night’s sleep is a luxury in today’s busy lifestyle. The body needs a full 6 to 8 hours of sleep at night to wake up completely rested. With better sleep habits, the energy level of the body and brain is optimised to function at their best. But work pressure and personal responsibilities make our days hectic, and the habit of sleeping late leads to anxiety.

There are different ways that can help us sleep better. Like:
*Sleeping early
*Avoid any alcoholic beverages and heavy meal after 8pm
*A comfortable mattress and cushions
*Adjusting room temperature and light
*Avoid watching tv or checking mobile phone at midnight
*Clean bedroom
*A warm bath before bedtime
*Light yoga stretches and deep breathing exercises for better sleep

All these are great ideas that can help with sleeping better. But do the Japanese know a secret for better sleeping habits?

Recently, I watched a YouTube video where a Japanese man was giving a tour of his traditional Japanese home. They live in a very different way than in western and Asian countries. Their entrance, kitchen, bathroom divisions, and bedroom set up are focused on living a minimalist and eco-friendly lifestyle.

One of the most unique ways to sleep in Japan is not on a big cushioned bed with a mattress. Instead, almost every Japanese household has a tatami mat spread in a room. They keep all their bedspreads in a cupboard. During the night, they unfold the light but comfortable futon on the Tatami Mat, then the bedsheets over it, then they place their pillow, and lastly, they have a comfortable cotton sheet to cover themselves. When they wake up in the early morning, they have a certain way of folding all the bedcovers, sheets, and futon and keeping them back in the cupboard.

Quite a lot of work, isn’t it? 

But how could they sleep on the floor, and why have the Japanese kept this tradition till now?

Everyone knows the discipline and punctuality of Japanese people. Their transport systems are always punctual, and they are hard-working and smart people. They also try to keep their culture and traditions alive by incorporating a few things as a part of their lifestyle.

Sleeping on a tatami mat is one such healthy tradition that Japanese homes like to retain. Let me give you a brief overview of the sleeping habits of the Japanese. 

1. On the entire floor of one room, they spread the Tatami Mat. It is a soft mat made of rice straw filled and rush grass covered. They are eco-friendly and therefore have natural breathability and are moisture-resistant. They regulate the temperature between the floor and the body.
2. The Japanese futon is called the Shikifuton. They are never bulky but always soft and lightweight. They are thin mattresses filled with layers of cotton. They are typically 3 or 4 inches thick. They are kept clean and hold-free by hanging outdoors in the sun.
3. The Japanese cushion or duvet is called a “Kakefuton. It’s filled with super soft silk fibres and helps in controlling body heat. They are also hypo-allergenic and free of dust mites for a comfortable night’s sleep.
4. Buckwheat Hull Pillows, also known as Sobakawa, are the last cushions that Japanese people frequently use.These pillows are filled with the hard outer casings of buckwheat seeds. These pillows may not be comfortable for people who are allergic to buckwheat. Many chiropractors suggest using buckwheat pillows for better support for the neck and head. They also balance the air circulation around the sleeping area. 

As you can see, the Japanese are very particular about the choice of their mattresses and the way they sleep. 

Advantages of sleeping on the floor 

There is not much research done to prove the advantages of sleeping on the floor, but a firm mattress that supports your back properly is definitely the key to a good night’s sleep.

“There is plenty of research to suggest that using a medium firm mattress promotes sleep comfort, boosts sleep quality, and improves spinal alignment. All of this can help reduce back pain, as one 2015 systematic review suggests.” 

Sleeping on low-floor beds or Tatami Mats maintains good posture. The floor has a natural way of supporting the back and, with a comfortable mat and futon, the body does not droop too much to one side. This helps the entire body and joints feel completely rested. The temperature on the floor is also much cooler, which helps you sleep better.

Tatami Mats are also great to use instead of a wooden bed because it saves space. You can fold the Tatami Mat and use the room for other purposes. Or you can just fold and keep the bedspreads in a cupboard and the soft mat can be used as a play space for babies.

All the components used for Japanese sleeping are eco-friendly, which makes them a cheaper option than any furniture. They can be easily washed and reused. They are low-maintenance and last longer. They are also easy to shift and handle.

Disadvantages of sleeping on the floor

People who have recently had surgery or have chronic pain need to first check with their physiotherapist or chiropractor before changing their sleeping set up. You may not be used to sleeping on the floor, which can make it a very uncomfortable experience.

Japanese people also have the habit of changing their shoes and keeping their shoe rack near the entrance. And they always change to slippers that they wear at home. This keeps their homes dust free. They always enter the Tatami room barefoot, so the bedroom stays clean.

Sleeping on the floor means keeping the floor absolutely dirt free. Some people are allergic to dust, or you may be prone to sneezing or coughing. These are all symptoms of a dust allergy. It can also cause rashes and severe itching. Saving space is a good idea, but not at the cost of health. However, maintaining a clean bedroom regularly is a good habit. The low light and overall cleanliness create a zen-like, peaceful sleeping environment.

You can always choose to sleep on a low-floor bed with a comfortable mattress. It is a stylish bedroom trend to keep the bed low to highlight the pattern on the wall or a painting behind the bed. It also makes the room look bigger by giving the illusion of high ceilings. However, mattresses are more prone to bed bugs and other insects if they are kept too low on the floor.

On a warmer day, sleeping close to the floor is great. But people who catch colds easily should prefer to sleep on a high bed with a good mattress. Consistent air conditioning is also considered not so healthy. Proper ventilation in a bedroom with fresh air and light is always a good idea.

Sleeping on the floor or in a low-floor bed may not be comfortable for older adults. Weak bones and mobility can make it difficult to lie down and get up from the floor.

Final Thoughts

Every country’s lifestyle is influenced by its cultural and economic habits. Japanese traditions are formed according to the environment they live in. Japanese people are very health-conscious and like to live simply and efficiently. Their way of living healthy is something that is affordable and environmentally friendly. It is a great way of living, but may or may not be suitable for other people and countries. Whatever the market trend, your idea of sleeping better should be comfortable for you and easily adaptable to your lifestyle.

References

A Complete Guide to the Japanese Sleep System, by Ashok R August 26, 2019. 

https://jlifeinternational.com/blogs/news/a-complete-guide-to-the-japanese-sleep-system

Is sleeping on the floor actually good for you? Last medically reviewed on February 4, 2021.

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/sleeping-on-the-floor