Ask anyone who has traveled to Japan, and chances are, they’ll agree – one of the most notable distinctions between Eastern and Western culture is the way we sleep. Unlike Western beds composed of thick mattresses piled high atop a large wooden or metal bed frame, Japanese tradition dictates an entirely different approach to slumber: sleeping on the floor. However, this doesn’t mean that comfort or appeal has been completely relinquished. Combining ergonomic precision with a minimalist approach, Japanese bedding is both practical and in many instances, quite beautiful. In this article, we’ll explore the subtleties of a good night’s rest, Japanese-style.
For many centuries, Japanese practice dictates sleeping on a specific combination of mats and cushions. In fact, historical evidence indicates that the culture of the tatami dates back as early as the 8th century. By sleeping with the mat on the floor – rather than on a bed frame, as in Western culture – the Japanese believe it helps to relax the muscles, while enabling the hips, shoulders and spine to maintain a natural alignment during rest.
The foundation of a Japanese bed begins with a tatami mat, which is composed of a woven rush grass cover, and filled with rice straw. Next, a shikifuton (Japanese-style mattress) and a kakebuton (duvet) complete the bed, while a special pillow made from buckwheat hull rounds out the customary Japanese bedding ensemble.
Traditionally, tatami mats were utilized as a flooring surface all throughout Japanese homes. Today, they’re used primarily in designated areas – referred to as ‘tatami rooms’ – which are essentially sleeping quarters. While tatami mats are practical and convenient – they may be rolled up and tucked away out of sight when not in use – they also offer a variety of sleep hygiene benefits. In addition to serving as a comfortable sleeping surface, these cleverly-engineered mats provide a moisture barrier between the floor and the futon mattress, enabling the bedding to ‘breathe’ and stay cool, which is particularly helpful in the warmer months.
If you’re thinking of recreating a tatami-style bed at home – or simply prefer your mattress on a hardwood floor in your bedroom – you may have some reservations. However, it’s perfectly fine to put bedding directly on the floor, as long as you follow a few useful guidelines. Below, some professional advice for setting up your new sleep space:
Whether you desire the health benefits of traditional Japanese bedding, or merely prefer the minimalist aesthetic it imparts to your décor, there are numerous perks to sleeping with your mattress on the floor. In addition to improved skeletal alignment, many people – both Eastern and Western – have found that beds such as the tatami mat provide superior comfort and support. For other enthusiasts of tatami culture, it may just be the appeal of simplicity in the sleep space that the Japanese have employed for thousands of years.
Some of the benefits of sleeping on the floor include improved posture, a reduction in sciatica and neck pain, and even better blood circulation. Additionally, if you tend to get hot at night, a bed without a frame may be just the solution – since the air circulates more freely through the mattress and bedding, it can potentially keep you cooler. However, since air is colder close the floor, those who live in chilly climates may want to think twice before ditching their bed frame.
For those concerned about bed height, fear not – according to the experts, your bed’s height won’t affect the quality of your sleep. On the other hand, the thickness of your mattress can determine the amount of support and comfort you’re going to get, so be sure that the bedding you choose is appropriate for your body type, weight and sleep habits (e.g., if you’re a side-sleeper versus someone who sleeps on your back or stomach), as well as your partner’s, if applicable. Choose a mattress that allows you to easily get in and out of your bed, so for those who struggle with certain health issues (such as arthritis or a bad knee), a bed on the floor may not be the most suitable option. If you do decide to place your mattress on the floor, be sure to place it up against the wall at least once a week when not in use to air it out.
Finally, consider your personal style – after all, your bedroom is your sanctuary. Therefore, the type of bedding you choose is not only a reflection of your aesthetic, but will directly impact the look and feel of your entire room. While taller, traditional beds may be appealing in a home with high ceilings, a low bed (e.g., a tatami mattress or a platform-style bed) can be a sleek option that gives the illusion of more space. For those who desire contemporary décor – for example, as reflected in Japanese and Nordic-inspired interiors – lower beds can instantly transform a room, imparting an airy, modern allure that conjures a sense of timeless tranquility.
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