A viral online trend suggests that sleeping with arms raised overhead may help some people rest better, but experts warn the habit could indicate abnormal breathing patterns.
The topic has gained traction on Chinese social media, where many users have shared similar experiences of getting more restful sleep. The health publication Life Times noted that the posture may be linked to changes in respiratory function rather than genuine sleep improvement.
Breathing is closely linked to muscle activity. Under normal conditions, the diaphragm supports slow, deep abdominal breathing, activating the parasympathetic nervous system and helping the body relax.
Prolonged stress or poor posture, however, can weaken this function and shift breathing to the chest and shoulders, placing strain on the neck and upper body.
As these muscles become overworked, they may remain active even during rest. Raising the arms during sleep can temporarily improve blood flow and relieve tension, which may explain why the position feels comfortable for some individuals.
Long-term poor posture can lead to poor blood circulation and numbness in the upper limbs, which, over time, may cause ischemia and hypoxia in the peripheral nerves, leading to conditions such as peripheral neuritis.
Raising the arm during sleep exposes the shoulder to cold, and the increased load on the muscles around the shoulder joint can compress the subacromial space, making it highly prone to inducing shoulder periarthritis.
Raising the arms high can displace the diaphragm due to muscle traction, leading to increased intra-abdominal pressure. This effect is more pronounced in individuals who eat heavily before sleep, the elderly, and those in late-stage pregnancy. Over time, it may contribute to the development of reflux esophagitis.
When the diaphragm and rib cage cannot contract naturally, breathing is compromised, which may lead to chest tightness and a feeling of unrestorative sleep. If you often experience chest tightness or shortness of breath that is relieved only by raising your arms and expanding the chest, this requires alertness for potential cardiopulmonary issues.