“The Carbon Air Pillow has been a game-changer for me”
Humans have been using pillows since the beginning of time. In fact, researchers have found the first trace of pillows around 7000 B.C in Mesopotamia, an ancient region in the eastern Mediterranean. The pillows consisted out of blocks of stone to elevate the head from the ground. Furthermore, ancient Chinese rested their heads on jade, bronze, and even porcelain, while ancient Greeks and Romans used straw to create softer pillows.
Although ancient pillows do not sound like anything that we’re used to nowadays, the history of the pillow suggests that elevating one’s head during sleep must have some benefits. Researchers at the University of Rochester Medical Center confirm this statement. According to their research, pillows keep your spine in the correct position and support the natural curve of your neck. Matthew O’Rourke, a physical therapist at Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, explains “If your neck is bent in any way for an extended period of time, you’ll get uncomfortable.” This can cause neck and back pain.
At Eight Sleep, we’ve always known that pillows are a very important part of your sleep. We create products like the Pod that help you sleep better by using dynamic temperature regulation. In addition to the Pod, we wanted to offer our members a pillow that’s designed to stay cool – in addition to being comfortable. Our best-selling Carbon Air Pillow is made out of carbon-infused ventilated foam for lasting cooling properties that filter heat away from the body. Besides the unique cooling feature, the Carbon Air Pillow supports spine alignment in all sleep positions.
I’ve been using the Carbon Air Pillow for three months now. It has definitely been a game-changer for me. Read my review to find out why.
Carbon Air Pillow Specs
- Review price: $150 for one, $265 for two
- 16 inches wide x 29 inches long x 6 inches loft
- Carbon-infused foam for cooling properties
- Perforated design for increased airflow and breathability
- Premium breathable cover
- 5-year warranty and 30-night trial
The science behind pillows
Having the right pillow is not only comforting, but it also plays a big role in the health of your spine. A pillow affects the way your neck aligns with your spine, which can either be beneficial or put more tension on your back which possibly triggers headaches, neck pain, and even arm numbness.
Image: good vs bad spine alignment. Source: Orthopaedic Associates
To decide what pillow works best for you, consider the position that you sleep in the most. The goal is to keep your head in neutral alignment, meaning it rests on your shoulders, similar to a good posture when you’re standing up.
- Back sleepers should have a pillow that supports the natural curve of the neck and takes the shape of the head. The height of the pillow should neither be too high so that it tilts your head too forward, nor too low that it extends the neck and tilts the head upwards. Generally, a thick and firm pillow is the best choice for back sleepers.
Image: Neck alignment in back sleeping. Source: Bedding Pal
- Side sleepers require extra support because there is a bigger distance between the head and the mattress. To keep the head and neck in a neutral position, side sleepers need firm pillows. The pillow should be able to stay firm throughout the whole night for the best support.
Image: Neck alignment in side sleeping. Source: Mind Body Spine
- Stomach sleepers should use a flat and soft pillow to reduce stress on the lower back. Using a pillow that’s too thick, will bend your spine at an a