- Staff
- #1
A study published in the Journal of Sleep Research has found a notable link between the use of multiple pillows and elevated anxiety levels. 
Researchers analysed the sleep environments of over 1,000 adults and discovered that individuals who sleep with three or more pillows were significantly more likely to report symptoms of anxiety, frequent nighttime restlessness, and waking up feeling unrested.
The study suggests that surrounding oneself with pillows may reflect a subconscious need for security or control. Psychologists interpret this behaviour as a coping mechanism, where the pillows serve as physical boundaries or a "safe zone" that helps ease hypervigilance triggered by stress.
Common patterns among anxious sleepers included the use of body pillows, stacking cushions behind their backs, or hugging a pillow throughout the night. These actions, researchers say, may be the nervous system's attempt to self-soothe and create a sense of grounding during sleep.
Additionally, the study found that those who used three or more pillows were more likely to experience racing thoughts and difficulty turning off their minds at bedtime — further suggesting a connection between elevated stress and disrupted sleep habits.
How many pillows do you sleep with!?
Researchers analysed the sleep environments of over 1,000 adults and discovered that individuals who sleep with three or more pillows were significantly more likely to report symptoms of anxiety, frequent nighttime restlessness, and waking up feeling unrested.
The study suggests that surrounding oneself with pillows may reflect a subconscious need for security or control. Psychologists interpret this behaviour as a coping mechanism, where the pillows serve as physical boundaries or a "safe zone" that helps ease hypervigilance triggered by stress.
Common patterns among anxious sleepers included the use of body pillows, stacking cushions behind their backs, or hugging a pillow throughout the night. These actions, researchers say, may be the nervous system's attempt to self-soothe and create a sense of grounding during sleep.
Additionally, the study found that those who used three or more pillows were more likely to experience racing thoughts and difficulty turning off their minds at bedtime — further suggesting a connection between elevated stress and disrupted sleep habits.
How many pillows do you sleep with!?
