Body pillows

A body pillow is a long narrow (in proportion) pillow that is just short of the length of a bed, and consequently a person. It is typically about 16 inches to 18 inched wide by 4 feet 6 inches to 5 feet 6 inches long. It is possible to get both larger and smaller body pillows.

Body pillows are normally a basic rectangle in shape, but there are some variations that see the pillow shaped like a figure "S". This shape is intend to allow the hips and shoulders to slump to a lower level than the main torso in order to retain a straight alignment of the spine.

How a body pillow works

Body pillows can be used in many different ways, but the most common use is for someone who likes to sleep on their side. When this is the case the body pillow can be placed to one side of where the person wishes to lay and it can then be used, almost as a bolster, to provide support to one side of the body.

Exactly how this kind of pillow is used for a normal sleeper is really a matter of personal choice, however many people do find them beneficial to their sleep.

A second use of a body pillow is for someone who is pregnant. In this instance the elongated pillow can help offer support and relieve pressure during sleeping. Sometimes these pillows are called maternity pillows.

People with muscle or joint discomfort as well as those who suffer from obesity can also gain a benefit from using a body pillow. In all cases these pillows can be used to support various parts of the body and limbs and to offer a softer degree of cushioning than would be the case using a mattress alone.

Body pillows are available with a variety of different filling materials that can include various foams and traditional feather and down. organic wool is another alternative.

DakimaKura pillows

A dakimakura pillow is a Japanses pillow that has some similarities to a body pillow in that it is long and narrow. However, the big difference between this kind of pillow and a body pillow is in the intended reason for use. Dakimakura pillows are used by young people as something to hold on to, wrap around or gain comfort from – almost like a teddy bear. Some of these pillows can be decorated with pictures or artwork to make their appearance more appealing.