How to Adjust the Bed to Zero Gravity Position? - Your Step by Step Guide for Better Sleep

Even though the words “astronauts” and “mattresses” might not be two things that you typically associated with one another, there are actually quite a few connecting links present between them. At least, according to NASA, anyway!

If you’re up to speed with your NASA history, then we’re sure you’ll already be familiar with the bestselling memory foam mattress introduction by them way back in the 1970s (which were an instant hit) and then their infamous gel foam mattresses that flung onto the scene at the very start of the 2010s.

Fortunately for us, NASA’s uncanny knack for promoting better overall sleep quality and general health hasn’t shown any signs of slowing down - because they’ve recently released the “perfect” sleeping position, which is known as the zero gravity position.

According to the space experts, this position is designed to alleviate pressure, allowing for a weightless sleeping experience that will not only take pressure off your joints but increase your overall well-being and promote deeper, better-quality sleep - night after night.

In this article, we’re going to be taking a closer look at the zero-gravity position, so that you can decide for yourself whether or not you’d like to try it. Below, you’ll find some more information on zero gravity, as well as some step-by-step instructions on how to achieve it. Just read on!

Zero Gravity: What is it, Exactly?

Before we jump any further, we first think that it will be a good idea to talk you through what zero gravity is, so that you can gain a better overall understanding of the sleeping position that incorporates its fundamental elements. To break it down, the zero-gravity position was initially calculated by NASA many years ago when NASA key researchers were studying the different ways that they could effectively relieve pressure from the joints of their astronauts during takeoff and landing.

However, as soon as adjustable beds started to become popular, NASA experts and doctors began taking a look at how the pressure-relieving advantages of zero gravity could be used to achieve a well-rested, peaceful night’s sleep - and the zero gravity position was soon born. In this particular position, instead of sleeping on your back or on your side, the zero gravity position consists of having the torso and legs slightly elevated, with the knees gently bent, and level with the chest area. As for the head, in accordance with zero gravity, it will need to be slightly above the heart, so that the body ends up resembling the letter “V”.

While it might not sound particularly comfortable, when carried out correctly, the zero gravity position has the potential to be able to evenly distribute your body’s weight, while also encouraging your spine to remain in a neutral position. Not only will this contribute to your overall health and wellbeing, but it will also be able to promote deeper feelings of relaxation and greater feelings of happiness. So, in other words, you’ll be able to enjoy a much deeper and well-rested sleep while also ensuring that your body is alleviated of any strains and pressure throughout the night.

Additionally, even though anyone and everyone can benefit from sleeping in this particular sleep position, it is widely accepted that this sleeping position is the best for those who suffer from chronic lower back pain, for those who suffer from sleeping disorders, as well as for people who lead very busy, physically demanding lifestyles that can see them suffering from more aches and pains than they would like.

How to Adjust to the Zero Gravity Position

In order to correctly adjust your bed so that you can properly benefit from this position, it’s important to make sure that you figure out what kind of bed you have first. There are some adjustable beds that already come with a default “Zero Gravity” setting that will allow you to effortlessly adjust your bed with just the click of one button. However, there are some beds that do not come with this setting already built into the bed, so other steps need to be taken in order to achieve the zero gravity sleeping position. Below, we’re going to be talking you through both options so that you know how to adjust your own, individual bed:

Beds that already have the position as a default setting:

If you happen to have an adjustable bed that already has a zero-gravity setting built-in, then all you will need to do is locate the remote (or control pad) where you will be able to go ahead and switch your bed over to the zero gravity position, Nevertheless, if you’re feeling a little unsure but suspect that your bed does offer the zero-gravity setting, then you could always visit the manufacturer’s website or reach out to their customer service team for further assistance on how to access it in your bed.

Beds that do not have the position as a default setting:

If you’re the owner of an adjustable bed model that doesn’t come with the zero-gravity feature already built-in, then rest assured that you will still be able to achieve the position from just a few tweaks. If this happens to be the case for you, then all you will need to do is make the adjustment yourself, and set your bed to be at 128° directly between your middle and top of the thighs, and 133° between your hamstrings and calf area.

Once you have made these adjustments, we recommend that you lay down on your bed to test that the adjustments made are correct. To do this properly, lay down on your bed and lift up your upper body area gently so that it is positioned at a 120-degree angle from your thighs. Then, gently angle your knees so that they are level with your heart and slightly bent for comfort. As soon as you have tested this and you feel comfortable, then you can leave the settings as they are and begin enjoying your sleep in the zero-gravity position.