Does it hurt your neck to lay on your side? Does supporting your head with your arm hurt your shoulder? In this article and video, I share how to lay on your side without hurting your shoulder or neck. It’s a literal quick fix that could save you some pain and suffering.
If you can’t view the embedded video above, you can view the video on YouTube. Maybe add it to a playlist? Above all, remember to subscribe to my channel. New videos are uploaded regularly. However, for exclusive longer format videos sign up for my Patreon community. Each month we explore poses, transitions, and trouble areas. Patrons also get early access to all my videos, along with lots of other benefits.
Disclosure: Links in this post may be affiliate links. This means that if you click on one of the product links and purchase a product, I’ll receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support the channel and allows me to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support!
How to lay on your side without hurting your shoulder or neck
If you have ever had pain or discomfort lying on your side, even for a short while, you know that sometimes that pain lasts! Let’s look at the problem of when you lay on your side. The problem is your head has no support.

Now you could use your arm for some support but frankly that can lead to other pain in your shoulder. Plus if you already have limited shoulder mobility or shoulder pain that just isn’t possible.

Instead, there is an instant quick fix of how to lay on your side without hurting your shoulder or neck. How? All you need to do is grab a yoga block and use that under your head.

No yoga block? Use a cushion, pillow, folded blanket, or towel. Whatever item you can find to support your head so your neck is in line with your spine. This should help avoid straining your neck, and without compressing your shoulder. Try it and see if it helps!
For more yoga for head and neck check out these posts (with videos)
- 5 minute yoga for neck pain and tension
- Somatic Head and neck release with Yoga block
- Somatic yoga for headache relief with a tennis ball
Like this post? PIN it to share with others!

Want more?
If you’re looking for real yoga for real bodies, consider joining my Patreon. Each month I release two yoga classes exclusively for my Patreon community. On the other hand, other ways to find more yoga with me are signing up for my 7-day yoga challenge, or subscribing to my YouTube channel. Remember you can get your reminder to practice more with my “do more yoga” t-shirt.
Questions
- Do you have neck or shoulder pain laying down?
- Have you used yoga blocks while side lying?
- Are there other positions that cause you pain?