Sleep expert reveals most comfortable position for sunbathing & what your preferred position means for you
EXPERTS have revealed exactly what your sunbathing position says about you.
Sleep expert, Hannah Shore, analysed six popular positions taken up on the sunbed by holidaymakers looking to relax and top up their tan.
The most common – which 43 per cent of travellers tend to use – is simply lying flat on their back with their legs straight down and arms by their sides.
According to Hannah, those who adopt this position are likely to be the ultimate sun seekers who embrace life to the fullest and enjoy letting the world know they are living their best life.
Those who prefer to be half in the shade and half in the sun – which is 20 per cent of all those polled – typically live a more balanced lifestyle and often enjoy the best of both worlds.
The research was commissioned by On the Beach and Silentnight which has teamed up to create a sunbed mattress topper to bring comfort back to holidays, as the data also revealed 47 per cent struggle to relax on a sun lounger – because they find them uncomfortable.
Silentnight’s Hannah Shore said: “The way you lounge on a sunbed can reveal a lot about your personality and sleep habits.
“This summer, as you’re soaking up the sun by the pool, take a moment to people-watch and notice how different folks are lying on their sunbeds – it’ll tell you a lot about their comfort preferences.
“Finding a position that’s comfortable to you is crucial, especially if you want to catch some restful poolside naps.
“Comfort impacts our total sleep experience and without it, our sleep quality is compromised- so test out some different sunbed positions and find what works for you.”
The study polled 2,000 adults who have travelled abroad within the last five years and found, of those who sunbathe, the average person will spend two and a half hours doing this per day.
Exactly two in 10 will set an early alarm to beat the sunbed rush, with 41 per cent finding this experience stressful.
Once the bed has been secured, 28 per cent will bury their head in a book, while 16 per cent prefer to bring earphones and listen to a playlist on repeat.
A further 16 per cent are more likely to drift in and out of sleep all day, as 31 per cent admit they often take a sunbed siesta.
However, 17 per cent will keep their eyes open at all times so they can people watch from behind a pair of shades.
Nearly three in 10 (29 per cent) reposition their lounger throughout the day depending on where the sun is.
And, according to the OnePoll.com data, a fifth will opt for 50/50 – meaning half in the shade with the other half exposed.
Zoe Harris, chief customer officer at On the Beach, which is exclusively offering the limited-edition toppers at Crete’s Lyttos Beach Hotel, said: “Some holidaymakers don’t even get chance to sit on their sunbed because they can’t face the 6am dash – resulting in sunbed wars.
“Hopefully now the summer sunbed crisis will be solved so jetsetters can lounge comfortably in their favourite position.”
The six most popular sunbathing positions and what they say about you:
1. The Sun Goddess/God (43 per cent)
You are the ultimate sun seeker. Lying flat on your back with arms outstretched to soak up as much sun as you can means you’re confident, and embrace life with enthusiasm. You are bold, unapologetic, and relish in letting the world see you live your best life.
2. The Goldilocks (20 per cent)
Half in the shade, half in the sun…that’s just right. You value balance in all aspects of your life, and poolside siestas are no exception. You are enjoying the best of both worlds and know where you feel most comfy. You’re practical, adaptable, and have a knack for finding the perfect middle ground.
3. The Flip-Flopper (17 per cent)
If you are constantly shifting from your back to your front and back again, then you are a classic Flip-Flopper. You’re spontaneous, adventurous and always up for trying something new – even in your dreams. You keep everyone guessing and that’s just the way you like it.
4. The Nosey Parker (17 per cent)
You love nothing more than people watching from the comfort of your bed, hiding behind a huge pair of sunglasses so you aren’t spotted. This means you are very observant and love the local gossip. You know everyone’s business – sometimes even before they do. Your attention to detail is unmatched, and you love to stay informed and connected.
5. The Social Butterfly (11 per cent)
Sitting up on your sunbed, engaging with everyone who passes by, you’re the Social Butterfly. You are extroverted and love meeting new people, making memories, and being at the heart of social interactions. For you, life is about connections and shared experiences, and you prioritise engaging with others over solitary relaxation.
6. The Total Starfish (two per cent)
You are a free spirit and not worried about perfecting your tan line or looking silly. You’re here to have a good time and nothing can rain on your parade. You’re carefree, confident, and happy-go-lucky – always finding joy in the small moments.