So what should you look for in a mattress? The Cornell University's Ergonomics group gives some guidelines for choosing your mattress.

Look for a mattress that is:

> Designed to conform to the spine's natural curves and to keep the spine in alignment
when you lay down.

> Designed to distribute pressure evenly across the body to help circulation, decrease body movement and enhance sleep quality.

> Designed to minimize the transfer of movement from one sleeping partner to the other.

> Designed with perimeter edge support.

Pillow Selection
Also, look for a pillow that complements the mattress, and choose pillows that are:

> Designed to keep the spine in natural alignment.

> Designed for maximum adjustability.

> Designed with the ability to be fluffed to fit the unique contour, shape, and sleeping
posture of the user.

> Designed to support different sleep positions:
Side sleeper - Back sleeper - Stomach sleeper.

> Designed to support the head.

> Designed to provide tactile softness.

> Designed to eliminate pressure points.

> Designed to increase facial air circulation.

> Designed as hypoallergenic.

Remember, you'll spend around some 24 years of your life sleeping, so take time to choose the best sleep system (i.e. the mattress, support structure, pillows and sheets) that you can and it will improve your sleep and your quality of life.

Info courtesy Relax the Back