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The best defense against an achy neck or back in the morning is to sleep just like you stand, says Ellen Wermter, a nurse practitioner who runs Restorative Sleep Medicine, a sleep clinic in Virginia. When you sleep in a position that follows the natural curvature of your spine, it reduces the possibility of muscle strain.

While lying down, your body should form a straight line from the top of your head to your tailbone. Wermter suggests placing your ears over your shoulders and your shoulders over your hips. Point your chin straight ahead, not tucked into your chest or stretched up toward the sky. Aim for symmetry with your arms for proper circulation.

For more tips on how to minimize body aches in the morning, read our story: https://n.pr/42mJ64J