How to Set an Adjustable Bed to Zero Gravity

The zero gravity sleep position is named for the way it mimics the weightless feeling astronauts experience, taking pressure off your spine and joints while you rest.

People who sleep this way anecdotally report less pain, better breathing, and deeper sleep throughout the night. And you don’t need a spaceship to try it—just an adjustable bed or some strategically placed pillows.

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This guide will show you exactly how to set up your perfect zero gravity position, explain the science behind why it works, and help you decide if this sleep solution is right for you. Your body might thank you for making this simple change to your sleep routine.

What Is the Zero Gravity Position?

The zero gravity position places your body in a specific posture where both your upper body and legs are slightly raised. Your knees bend slightly and stay level with your chest, while your head rises just above your heart.

This position creates a shallow “V” shape with your body that spreads your weight evenly across the sleep surface. Your spine maintains its natural curve in this position instead of flattening against the mattress.

The name “zero gravity” comes from the weightless feeling it creates, though you won’t actually float. Many people find this position immediately comfortable because it removes pressure from areas that often cause pain during sleep.

Origins of Zero Gravity Sleep

NASA researchers first developed the zero gravity position when studying how to protect astronauts’ bodies during rocket launches. They found this specific position helped reduce pressure on astronauts’ spines and organs during the intense forces of takeoff.

Sleep experts later realized these same benefits could help everyday people get better rest. They discovered that the position NASA designed for short periods during space missions could provide lasting comfort throughout a full night of sleep.

The medical community soon adopted this position for hospital beds because it helped patients with various conditions rest more comfortably.

Today, many adjustable bed makers include zero gravity settings in their designs, making this space-age sleep solution available to anyone looking for better rest.

Benefits of Zero Gravity Sleep

Zero gravity beds offers many benefits beyond simple comfort. These advantages can help people with specific health concerns as well as anyone looking for better sleep quality.

Reduced Pressure on the Spine

Your spine naturally forms an “S” shape, but lying flat forces it into an unnatural position that creates pressure points. The zero gravity position supports your spine’s natural curve, allowing your back muscles to fully relax during sleep.

This position distributes your weight evenly across your body instead of concentrating it on your lower back or shoulders. Many people with chronic back pain report feeling relief after just one night in the zero gravity position.

The balanced support helps your spine stay properly aligned throughout the night, preventing the stiffness and soreness that often comes with waking up from conventional sleep positions.

People with physically demanding jobs particularly benefit from this pressure relief after long days of standing or heavy lifting.

Improved Breathing and Reduced Snoring

Raising your upper body in the zero gravity position helps keep your airways open and clear during sleep. When you lie flat, the tissues in your throat might relax too much and partially block air passage, causing snoring or breathing difficulties.

The slight elevation of your head and chest in zero gravity prevents your tongue and soft palate from collapsing backward. People with sleep apnea often find they breathe more easily and experience fewer breathing interruptions in this position.

The improved airflow also helps those with asthma or allergies get more restful sleep with less congestion. Better breathing leads to better sleep quality and more energy the next day.

Better Blood Circulation

The zero gravity position improves blood flow throughout your body by elevating both your upper body and legs. This position reduces the work your heart must do to pump blood, allowing for more efficient circulation during sleep.

Raising your legs slightly above your heart level helps prevent blood from pooling in your lower extremities. People who spend long hours standing often experience swelling in their feet and ankles that the zero gravity position can help reduce.

The improved circulation delivers more oxygen to your muscles, helping them recover faster from daily activities. Many people report waking with less stiffness and faster morning mobility after sleeping in this position.

Help for Digestive Issues

The slight upward angle of your upper body in the zero gravity position uses gravity to keep stomach acid where it belongs. When you lie completely flat, acid can more easily travel up your esophagus, causing uncomfortable heartburn or acid reflux.

Raising your head and chest by just a few inches creates enough of an incline to prevent this unwanted movement. People who regularly experience nighttime heartburn often find significant relief with zero gravity sleep.

The position also supports better digestion overall by putting less pressure on your stomach and intestines. Many people find they can enjoy evening meals without worrying about digestive discomfort disrupting their sleep later.

How to Set Your Adjustable Bed to Zero Gravity

Setting up your adjustable bed for zero gravity sleep is simpler than you might think. Whether your bed has preset options or requires manual adjustment, you can find your perfect position with just a few steps.

Using Pre-Set Options

Many modern adjustable beds include a dedicated zero gravity button right on the remote control. Look for a button labeled “Zero-G,” “ZG,” or sometimes simply “Anti-Gravity” on your bed’s remote.

Pressing this button automatically moves both the head and foot sections of your bed into the ideal zero gravity position. This preset option takes the guesswork out of finding the correct angles for true zero gravity sleep.

The manufacturer has programmed the exact NASA-recommended position into your bed’s memory. If you’re not sure whether your bed has this feature, check your owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s website for information about your specific model.

Manual Adjustment Steps

Even without a preset button, you can manually set your adjustable bed to the zero gravity position. Start by using your remote to raise the upper body section until it forms approximately a 120-degree angle with your thighs.

Next, elevate the foot section until your knees bend slightly and rise just above your heart level. Your body should form a shallow “V” shape when viewed from the side.

You’ll know you’ve found the right position when you feel a sensation of weightlessness and notice pressure relief throughout your body.

Make small adjustments as needed until you find the most comfortable position for your body type and sleep preferences.

Saving Your Perfect Position

Once you’ve found your ideal zero gravity position, you can save it for easy access night after night. Most adjustable beds include memory buttons on the remote labeled with “M,” “Memory,” or numbered preset options.

Press and hold one of these memory buttons for a few seconds after adjusting to your perfect position. The bed will store these exact settings in its memory, allowing you to return to your zero gravity position with just one button press.

Some advanced models store multiple position settings, letting different sleepers save their own preferred angles. If you make seasonal adjustments or find that your preferences change over time, you can always reprogram your settings with the same simple process.

Making Zero Gravity Work Without an Adjustable Bed

You don’t need to invest in an expensive adjustable bed to enjoy the benefits of zero gravity sleep. With some creative pillow arrangements and simple supports, you can create a similar effect on your regular mattress.

Using Pillows and Supports

Standard bed pillows can help you mimic the zero gravity position with a little careful arrangement. Place two to three pillows under your upper back and head to create the needed elevation for your upper body.

Use a firm pillow or rolled blanket under your knees to raise your legs to the proper height and create the slight bend in your knees. Add a small, thin pillow or rolled towel in the small of your back to maintain your spine’s natural curve and provide crucial lower back support.

Experiment with different pillow thicknesses until you find the combination that feels most comfortable and supportive. Be prepared to readjust your pillows during the night if they shift out of position while you sleep.

DIY Zero Gravity Setup

For a more stable zero gravity setup that won’t shift during the night, consider using specialty supports. Foam wedges designed for sleep positioning provide firmer, more reliable support than standard pillows.

Place a larger wedge with about a 30-45 degree incline under your upper back and head, and position a leg wedge under your knees to achieve the proper elevation. Some people find that a body pillow placed in a U-shape works well to maintain position throughout the night.

Specialty cushions designed for back support, available at many home goods stores, can provide excellent lumbar support in this position. If you enjoy the benefits of zero gravity sleep with your DIY setup, you might eventually consider investing in an adjustable bed frame for even greater convenience and comfort.

Choosing the Right Mattress for Zero Gravity

The mattress you use plays a crucial role in how well zero gravity position works for your body. Not all mattresses can properly bend and flex while still providing the support you need.

Best Mattress Types

Memory foam mattresses excel in zero gravity positions because they adapt to your body’s shape while bending easily with the bed’s adjustments. These mattresses contour to your body curves, providing support exactly where you need it without creating pressure points.

Latex mattresses offer similar flexibility with the added benefit of more bounce and a cooler sleep surface for those who tend to sleep hot.

Some hybrid mattresses that combine pocketed coils with foam layers can work well too, especially newer models designed specifically for adjustable bases.

The ideal mattress thickness for zero gravity sleeping falls between 8 and 12 inches—thick enough to provide comfort but thin enough to bend properly.

Look for mattresses with medium firmness (5-7 on a 10-point scale) as they typically offer the best balance of support and flexibility for zero gravity sleeping.

What to Avoid

Traditional innerspring mattresses with connected coil systems often perform poorly in zero gravity positions because they resist bending. Very thick mattresses (over 14 inches) may technically bend but can develop creases and wear out faster when repeatedly adjusted.

Mattresses with rigid edge support systems might also struggle to conform properly to zero gravity adjustments. Extra-firm mattresses sometimes fail to contour adequately to your body’s natural curves when in the elevated position.

Avoid mattresses with quilted pillow-tops that can bunch up uncomfortably when the bed articulates. Before purchasing a new mattress for zero gravity sleeping, check that it specifically states compatibility with adjustable beds in its product information.

Testing the mattress on an adjustable display model in a showroom can also help ensure it maintains comfort and support in various positions.

Tips for Different Sleep Styles

Your regular sleep position affects how you’ll experience zero gravity sleeping. While this position works well for many people, some sleepers need special adjustments to get the most benefit.

Back Sleepers

Back sleepers typically adapt most easily to the zero gravity position because it naturally complements this sleep style. The standard zero gravity angles support your spine’s natural curve while relieving pressure on your lower back.

You’ll likely feel immediate comfort with the standard zero gravity settings without needing many adjustments. Your arms can rest comfortably at your sides or on your stomach without causing shoulder tension or numbness.

Many back sleepers report falling asleep faster in zero gravity because the position immediately relieves pressure points that might otherwise cause discomfort. If you’re new to back sleeping but want to try zero gravity, start with shorter naps in this position before committing to a full night.

Side Sleepers

Side sleepers can still benefit from zero gravity sleep but might need to make some adjustments for optimal comfort. Try lowering the head section slightly from the standard position, as the typical angle might put too much pressure on your shoulder.

Consider placing a thin pillow between your knees to maintain proper hip alignment while in the elevated position. You might also benefit from a softer mattress that allows your shoulders and hips to sink in deeper while maintaining the elevated position.

Some side sleepers prefer to lower the foot elevation slightly below standard zero gravity height for better comfort. Experiment with different angles and pillow placements to find what works best for your specific body type and preferences.

Who Should Avoid Zero Gravity

Stomach sleepers should generally avoid zero gravity sleeping positions entirely. The elevated head and foot sections force your neck and spine into an unnatural and potentially harmful backward arch.

Pregnant women, especially in their second and third trimesters, should consult with their doctor before using zero gravity positions, as specific pregnancy sleeping positions are recommended for maternal and fetal health.

People with certain medical conditions like glaucoma or specific heart conditions should speak with their healthcare provider before trying zero gravity sleep. The elevated head position might affect eye pressure for some individuals, while others might find the position influences their heart function.

Those recovering from certain surgeries, especially spinal procedures, should get clearance from their surgeon before adjusting their sleep position. Remember that comfort matters—if you try zero gravity and find it uncomfortable after a reasonable adjustment period, listen to your body and return to a sleep position that works better for you.

Points to Remember

This position offers a scientifically-backed approach to improve your sleep quality and health. Adjusting your bed to zero gravity can transform your nightly rest experience.

• Pressure Relief: Zero gravity takes weight off your spine and joints. This reduces pain and helps your body fully relax during sleep.
• Improved Circulation: Elevating your legs above heart level helps blood flow back to your heart. Better circulation means less swelling in your feet and legs while you sleep.
• Enhanced Breathing: Raising your upper body opens your airways for easier breathing. This position helps reduce snoring and can lessen symptoms of sleep apnea.
• Digestive Benefits: The slight incline of your upper body prevents stomach acid from rising into your esophagus. Many people find relief from heartburn and acid reflux when sleeping this way.
• Faster Sleep Onset: The comfortable, weightless feeling often helps people fall asleep more quickly. Your body doesn’t need to fight pressure points, allowing you to drift off sooner.
• Deeper Sleep Cycles: Many users report reaching deeper sleep stages more easily in zero gravity. This leads to more restorative sleep and feeling more refreshed in the morning.
• Versatility: Zero gravity works for many different health conditions and sleep preferences. You can make small adjustments to find your perfect angle for maximum comfort.

Finding your ideal zero gravity position may take some experimentation with different angles. The effort is worthwhile when you wake up feeling better rested and with fewer aches and pains.

FAQs

Why is it called “zero gravity” if I don’t actually float?

The name “zero gravity” comes from the weightless feeling this position creates, not because you actually float.

When your body is positioned with both your upper body and legs slightly elevated, the pressure gets distributed evenly across your entire body instead of concentrating on specific points.

This even distribution creates a sensation similar to what astronauts experience in space, where gravity doesn’t pull on any single part of their body more than others.

The position was first developed by NASA researchers to help reduce the pressure on astronauts during takeoff, which is why it carries the space-inspired name.

How long does it take to get used to sleeping in zero gravity position?

Most people need about one to two weeks to fully adjust to sleeping in the zero gravity position. During this adjustment period, you might find yourself naturally shifting out of position as your body gets used to the new way of sleeping.

Some people experience mild discomfort in the first few nights as muscles that typically stay relaxed during sleep now work differently to support your body in the new position.

By the end of two weeks, many sleepers report they no longer want to return to their old sleep position because they’ve begun experiencing the benefits of better circulation, reduced pressure points, and improved breathing.

Can I still use my favorite pillow with an adjustable bed?

You can absolutely continue using your favorite pillow with an adjustable bed in the zero gravity position. However, you might need to adjust how you use it since your head is already elevated by the bed itself.

Many people find they need a thinner pillow than usual or position their pillow differently to maintain proper neck alignment.

Some sleepers discover they need less pillow support under their head but benefit from adding a small pillow under their lower back for additional lumbar support. Others may need household hacks to keep the pillow from falling off the bed.

Experiment with different pillow placements to find what feels most comfortable for your specific body type and preferences.

Will my sheets stay in place when the bed is adjusted?

Regular fitted sheets sometimes slip off the corners when using an adjustable bed, especially in the zero gravity position. The bending of the mattress can pull the sheets away from the corners and create an uncomfortable sleeping surface.

Deep pocket sheets provide extra fabric that helps accommodate the bed’s movements without coming loose. Some companies make sheets specifically designed for adjustable beds that include extra elastic or different pocket designs to stay put through various adjustments.

Sheet straps or suspenders, which clip to the corners of your sheets and run underneath the mattress, can also help keep sheets on an adjustable bed in place.

Is zero gravity sleeping safe for everyone?

Zero gravity sleeping is safe for most people, but some individuals should consult with healthcare providers before trying it.

Pregnant women, especially in their second and third trimesters, should check with their doctor as specific sleeping positions are recommended during pregnancy.

People with certain health conditions like glaucoma, heart issues, or recent surgeries should get medical clearance before changing their sleep position.

Stomach sleepers should generally avoid zero gravity positions entirely, as the elevated head and foot sections force the neck and spine into an unnatural arch.

Children should use zero gravity settings only under adult supervision and with guidance from their pediatrician.

Can I create a zero gravity position without buying an adjustable bed?

You can definitely create a similar effect to the zero gravity position without investing in an expensive adjustable bed. Foam wedges designed for sleep positioning provide stable support that mimics the angles of an adjustable bed.

Place a larger wedge with about a 30-45 degree incline under your upper back and head, and position a leg wedge under your knees. Regular pillows can also work, though they tend to shift during the night and require more adjustment.

Body pillows arranged in a U-shape help maintain position throughout the night for some sleepers. While this DIY approach doesn’t offer the convenience of button-controlled adjustments, it provides many of the same benefits at a fraction of the cost.

Will sleeping in zero gravity help with my snoring?

Sleeping in the zero gravity position often helps reduce snoring for many people. The elevated position of your head and upper body helps keep your airways more open during sleep, preventing the soft tissues in your throat from collapsing backward and causing the vibrations that create snoring sounds.

This position can be particularly helpful for people whose snoring gets worse when they sleep on their back. Many sleep partners report noticing a significant decrease in their partner’s snoring after switching to zero gravity sleep.

For those with sleep apnea, the position may help reduce the frequency and severity of breathing interruptions, though it should not replace medical treatments like CPAP therapy without a doctor’s approval.

Conclusion

The zero gravity sleep position offers a science-backed way to improve your sleep quality and address common sleep problems. By distributing your weight evenly and supporting your body’s natural alignment, this space-inspired position can reduce pain, improve breathing, and enhance circulation while you rest.

Whether you use an adjustable bed with built-in settings or create your own setup with pillows, the benefits of zero gravity sleep are accessible to nearly everyone looking for better sleep.

The initial adjustment period requires some patience, but many people find they can’t imagine returning to conventional sleep positions after experiencing the weightless comfort of zero gravity.

Not every sleep style works perfectly with this position, so listen to your body and make adjustments that suit your personal needs and comfort preferences.

Give yourself time to adapt to this revolutionary sleep position, and you might discover that the answer to better sleep has been floating above us all along.

And do let us know in the comments below or on social media how your experience with the zero gravity position goes! Did you find it to be the pinnacle of comfort or is there another position you prefer? We’d love to hear from you!