Urban Sanctuaries: Creating Peaceful Homes Amidst City ChaosPresented by:Save this picture!Casa Jardim Secreto / ROOM+ Design & Build. Sonmeo Nguyen Art Studio"Feeling at home" is more than just an expressionit is the sense of warmth and comfort that transforms a space into a true refuge. To achieve this, elements like color, texture, lighting, and materials play a crucial role in shaping an environment that fosters relaxation and well-being. Backed by research in environmental psychology and neuroscience, the connection between physical spaces and human behavior highlights how architecture can directly influence the atmosphere, turning chaos into tranquility.Finnish architect Juhani Pallasmaa argues that a home is more than just a physical structure; it is a fluid, evolving condition shaped by memories, images, desires, and fears. Built over time through rituals and routines, a home develops as individuals and families adapt to their surroundings. In this process, the pursuit of a space that conveys warmth and tranquility becomes essentialespecially when the external world suggests the opposite. With this in mind, we have selected five strategies to help create sanctuaries shielded from external chaos.Save this picture!These strategies work together to create serene environments that promote intimacy and comfort. Thoughtfully designed elements enhance personal connections and sensory experiences, cultivating spaces that invite tranquility. Additionally, a well-planned entryway serves as a transition from the external hustle to the peaceful retreat of home, reinforcing its role as a sanctuary within the urban landscape. Related Article Psychology of Space: How Interiors Impact our Behavior? Creating Cozy Spaces"The light from a home's window is a light that waits," observed Bachelard. A true home has a soula presence that awaits its inhabitant. Lighting plays a fundamental role in shaping this atmosphere. Since tranquility is closely linked to warmth and a sense of belonging, light becomes a powerful tool in influencing emotions. Soft, warm lighting creates a cozy ambiance, while abundant natural light promotes both physical and mental well-being. Alongside lighting, colors stimulate the brain, forming a unique visual language connected to personal memories and experiences. Color combinations communicate on a deep level, directly or indirectly influencing human behavior. Beyond shaping the spatial atmosphere, colors serve as a powerful tool for evoking emotions, with neutral and soft tones like blue, green, and light gray fostering a sense of calm.One of the most well-known strategies for creating cozy spaces is incorporating natural elements and materials. This practice, known as biophilia, highlights the importance of nature in reducing stress. Depending on the available space, this can mean integrating thoughtfully designed landscaping or even small touches of greenery. Additionally, using natural materials for structures or finishessuch as woodadds warmth to the home environment, reinforcing a connection to nature.The Nest House / Ho Khue ArchitectsSave this picture!House of Tranquility / Tal Goldsmith Fish Design StudioSave this picture!Casa Jardim Secreto / ROOM+ Design & BuildSave this picture!Acoustic InsulationAccording to Schmid, "A house welcomes; it meets basic needs for security and belonging [...] as if offering endless comfort to humans, while the outside world often does the opposite." In this contrast between home and the external world, acoustic comfort becomes essential. Acoustics is one of the most complex aspects of built environments because human hearing is extremely sensitive. In this context, urban noise becomes a significant concern, directly impacting health and contributing to stressmaking soundproofing essential.To achieve this, various technologies can be used, such as floating floors, acoustic insulation for ceilings and walls (like rock wool and glass wool), or even soundproof windows and doors. A quicker and simpler solution for noise reduction is the strategic use of rugs, curtains, panels, and upholstered furniture. Adding soft music or nature sounds, like flowing water, further enhances the sense of calm.Weekend House in Downtown So Paulo / SPBR ArquitetosSave this picture!House with Indoor Garden / Hiroshi Kinoshita and AssociatesSave this picture!Terrace House near Demachiyanagi / atelier LukeSave this picture!Emotional Connection with HomeHeidegger states that 'to dwell is to care,' a continuous process of organizing and beautifying spaces, making them extensions of ourselves. Through symbols and design elements, humans imprint their identity onto their surroundings, turning a house into a reflection of their essence. The choice of finishes, furniture, and decorative objects often reveals the personality of the inhabitants, strengthening their emotional connection to the home. Sentimental items such as photographs, travel souvenirs, and artwork further enhance the sense of belonging and well-being, transforming the house into a true sanctuary.Casinha / Letcia Bianchi ArquiteturaSave this picture!Bookshelf House / Shinsuke Fujii ArchitectsSave this picture!Morro do Querosene House / grupospSave this picture!Aroma and TexturesWhen asked about his childhood home, Finnish architect Juhani Pallasmaa noted that his memories are based more on scent than sight. According to him, every home has a distinct smellone that often goes unnoticed while living there but is instantly recognizable upon returning. From an architectural perspective, incorporating scents from building materials and furniture is an interesting and often overlooked design approach. In an interview with Ila Bka and Louise Lemoine, Pallasmaa suggested that architecture could integrate scents more actively, citing wood as an example. He explained that wood releases a familiar, comforting aroma, something he describes as a "touch for the nose."In addition to scents, textures also contribute to a relaxing environment. The surfaces of floors, walls, and furniture, along with factors such as temperature, humidity, and ventilation, play a major role in tactile comfort. Natural, textured fabrics like cotton, linen, and wool add warmth to a space, providing pleasant sensory experiences.Liquid Earth House / Oficina de arquitectura XSave this picture!Jordi & Anna interior renovation / Hiha StudioSave this picture!Estdio em azotea Tapachula / TOSave this picture!Entrada como Limiar entre Exterior e InteriorA entrada da casa um local de transio entre o mundo catico da cidade e o seu refgio, por isso, um ambiente acolhedor logo ao entrar ajuda a preparar a mente para o descanso. Pensar na entrada como um verdadeiro portal para um refgio urbano significa projet-la para ser mais do que um mero local de passagem. Com pequenos ajustes, ela pode se tornar um convite para desacelerar, um lembrete dirio de que, dentro de casa, o ritmo pode ser mais tranquilo, confortvel e alinhado ao bem-estar.Casa da Ponte / Leo RomanoSave this picture!Jardins House / Stemmer Rodrigues ArquiteturaSave this picture!House 1/3 / MomentoSave this picture!This article is part of an ArchDaily series that explores interior architecture resources using our own project database. Each month, we highlight how architects and designers are incorporating new elements, features, and design signatures in interior spaces worldwide. As always, we greatly value contributions from our readersif you have specific ideas we should cover, feel free to send us your suggestions.This article is also part of ArchDailys Tpoic: Atmosphere in Architecture and Perception of Space. Every month, we dive deep into a theme through articles, interviews, news, and architectural projects. We invite you to explore more of ArchDailys topics, and as always, we welcome contributions from our readers. If you would like to submit an article or project, contact us.Image gallerySee allShow lessAbout this authorCamilla GhisleniAuthorCite: Ghisleni, Camilla. "Urban Sanctuaries: Creating Peaceful Homes Amidst City Chaos" [Santurios Urbanos: Como criar lares tranquilos em meio ao caos da cidade] 19 Mar 2025. ArchDaily. (Trans. Simes, Diogo) Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/1028000/urban-sanctuaries-creating-peaceful-homes-amidst-city-chaos&gt ISSN 0719-8884Save!ArchDaily?You've started following your first account!Did you know?You'll now receive updates based on what you follow! Personalize your stream and start following your favorite authors, offices and users.Go to my stream

SORA Rooftop Bar & Restaurant / PACT architectsSave this picture! Sam NoonanArchitects: PACT architectsAreaArea of this architecture projectArea:1108 mYearCompletion year of this architecture project Year: 2024 PhotographsPhotographs:Sam Noonan Lead Architects: Tom Jarrett, Georgia Cant More SpecsLess SpecsSave this picture!Text description provided by the architects. SORA is an immersive and adaptive structure with an operable skin. A faade and roof that changes with the weather, the season, and the needs of its occupants. SORA breathes, feeds, shelters, and sings. The State Heritage Pirie House entrance sets the tone of our architectural response.Save this picture!Save this picture!Save this picture!Positioned on levels 9 and 10, rather than offering panoramas, the views from the roof were interesting views of hills and the city between buildings and down laneways through the city. With a Northern aspect, we know rooftops get hot. Our response was a lightweight structure with an operable skin, one that could retract and breathe with the weather. Framed views through stretched parabolic arches - a tip of the hat to Pirie House below, albeit with a very different language.Save this picture!Save this picture!This project is adaptive. Its design responds to its locality, its use, and its need to be a destination. Not to mention, it was also erected above one of Adelaide's busiest CBD streets, on the rooftop of an occupied office building below.Save this picture!SORA started with an important reference to a state heritage place while creating its own identity within the cityscape. This identity is then reinforced and amplified upon arrival into the venue itself; this simultaneous architectural expression at urban and interior scale is vital to brand reinforcement.Materials were chosen to complement the culinary direction, the process, the fire, the rooftop environment, and the ambition and scale sought by our brave clients. The specific menu adapts and changes with the seasons, as does the built environment. Functionality is imperative for any venue while embracing the rooftop ideal, operable facades and roofs enable an adaptive venue for trade year-round.Save this picture!Project gallerySee allShow lessAbout this officePublished on March 19, 2025Cite: "SORA Rooftop Bar & Restaurant / PACT architects" 19 Mar 2025. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/1027633/sora-rooftop-bar-and-restaurant-pact-architects&gt ISSN 0719-8884Save!ArchDaily?You've started following your first account!Did you know?You'll now receive updates based on what you follow! Personalize your stream and start following your favorite authors, offices and users.Go to my stream

Birds-of-paradise are among the most resplendent creatures on Earth, with long, elaborate feathers in eye-popping shades of yellow, blue, and red. Naturalists have admired them for centuries. Yet it turns out they didnt know the half of it.As if those vibrant colors werent enough, a recent study found that the birds native to Australia, Indonesia, and New Guinea are also biofluorescent. Their skin and plumage absorb light at high-energy wavelengths, then re-emit it at low-energy wavelengths visible to other birds as a bright yellow-green. Basically, they harness the suns rays to make their already impressive displays even more dazzling.Biofluorescence by itself isnt big news; it shows up in plenty of animals, including humans (our teeth fluoresce under UV light). But almost always it either has no discernible function, or its used for camouflage. This, says lead author Rene Martin, a biologist at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, is one of the few cases where were seeing biofluorescence is very likely being used as a signal. Thats where it tends to be rare.Evolution for DesireThe birds-of-paradise evolved optimal brilliance to communicate something, and that something is their own attractiveness: Like so many of their striking features, biofluorescence seems to help them entice mates. The females are very choosy, Martin says, and the males tend to be very flashy. Biofluorescence is just a small component of that.Martin and her colleagues tested all 45 species, using specimens from the American Museum of Natural History, and found biofluorescence in each of the 37 core birds-of-paradise. This suggests that their common ancestor was also biofluorescent, and for some reason the other eight species lost that trait over time. In those that retained biofluorescence, the trait has diversified wildly under the auspices of sexual selection. This is the lesser-known force that, along with natural selection, drives evolution. Whereas natural selection favors the fit, sexual selection favors the beautiful: The most desirable individuals are most likely to pass on their genes. Female choosiness can result in a positive feedback loop where exaggerated features grow more ornate from generation to generation, even to the point of conflicting with natural selection a male bird-of-paradise is conspicuous not only to mates, but also to predators. Nevertheless, sexual preference is a powerful sculptor. And birds have terrific eyesight, with visual acuity and color discrimination to rival any animal, so its no surprise these creatures evolved such a dramatic appearance. The Black Hole EffectBeyond biofluorescence, birds-of-paradise have another trick to enhance their look, and to stand out amid a noisy forest background. A 2018 study found that the birds colors arent just brighter, the surrounding areas are also darker theyve evolved super black feathers, which absorb more light than the feathers of other birds. This black hole effect creates an intense, irresistible contrast.Some species fan these plumes around their face to create a dark halo, then open their biofluorescent mouth for potential mates to appraise. In other species the females observe from above, so males spread their feathers out skirt-like to isolate a spark of biofluorescence on the crown of their head. They even choose their display sites carefully to exploit whatever sunlight is available to them. As Martin put it, they're playing with that light source to enhance their flashiness.Searching for a PurposeGiven that biofluorescence is often a mere byproduct of the structure of animal tissues, you cant just assume it serves some tangible purpose. To be sure that it does in birds-of-paradise, Martins team followed an established framework with five criteria. They proved four of them. The pigments are well-suited to absorb light in the birds natural habitat, theyre viewed against a contrasting background, theyre located in the relevant bodily regions, and the birds eyes are particularly sensitive to the re-emitted wavelengths.But theres one thing the researchers havent yet been able to test: Whether biofluorescence changes the behavior of females who behold it. Thats a tough one; the team would need to compare mating success in males with and without biofluorescence, so for the control group theyd need a way to turn off the UV light that excites that biofluorescence.We cant turn off the sun, of course, but it might be possible to run such an experiment with captive birds under artificial light. And the right doors seem to be opening already shortly after her paper was published, Martin received an email from a zookeeper who offered to collaborate. The woman didnt seem surprised to learn that birds-of-paradise were biofluorescent. Every time I see their feathers, Martin recalls her saying, I feel like there must be more.Article SourcesOur writers at Discovermagazine.com use peer-reviewed studies and high-quality sources for our articles, and our editors review for scientific accuracy and editorial standards. Review the sources used below for this article:Royal Society Open Science. Does biofluorescence enhance visual signals in birds-of-paradise?The Royal Society. Fluorescence as a means of colour signal enhancementCody Cottier is a contributing writer at Discover who loves exploring big questions about the universe and our home planet, the nature of consciousness, the ethical implications of science and more. He holds a bachelor's degree in journalism and media production from Washington State University.

ShareWe may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more You should be sleeping at least 7 hours each night, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Success in achieving this goal largely depends on creating an environment conducive to sleeping. The right pillow is a crucial component, creating a soft yet supportive cradle for your head and neck.To ensure optimal sleep quality, selecting the right pillow is essential, and a good pillow should have an outer fabric that acts as an effective barrier to allergens, preventing exposure to dust mite allergen and other irritants, says Dr. John McKeon, CEO of Allergy Standards Ltd. McKeon tells me the right pillow should also feature a breathable outer fabric to enhance comfort and promote airflow. It should also be easy to clean, durable, and free from chemicals above levels that are known to trigger asthma, allergy symptoms, and irritants, he explains.The crowded pillow market is chock-full of offerings at various price pointslike our best overall, the not inexpensive Purple Harmony Pillow. Realizing that the right pillow may vary by user, we tested a variety of materialsincluding down, latex, down alternative, and coolingas well as the best pillows specifically for stomach, back, and side sleepers.Best overall: Purple Harmony PillowBest for side sleepers: Nest Bedding Easy Breather Side Sleeper PillowBest for stomach sleepers: Sleep Number Comfort Fit PillowBest for back sleepers: Saatva Latex PillowBest for neck pain: Ostrichpillow Memory Foam Bed PillowBest down pillow: Parachute Down PillowHow we chose the best pillowsTo compile this list of the best pillows, we conducted extensive research and contacted Dr. Ruchir Patel, founder of TMS Institute of Arizona, an insomnia and sleep institute; Dr. John McKeon, CEO of Allergy Standards; and Kenneth Mendez, president and CEO of the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA). We also tested dozens of pillows, considering peer recommendations and consumer reviews, comfort and support levels, maintenance and durability, and anti-allergy effectiveness.The best pillows: Reviews & RecommendationsBefore I started testing pillows for a living (circa 2018), I would typically go to TJ Maxx or Marshalls and grab a pair of fluffy pillows. However, I often woke up with aches and pains, and I noticed that the pillows didnt last long. Thats when I discovered I needed to get pillows based on my sleep style and other factors. Several years later, Ive tested dozens of high-quality pillows, and our list compiles the best of the best, designed to meet a variety of sleep preferences and needs.Best overall: Purple Harmony PillowTerri Williams ProsSquishy softThree lofts for back, side, and stomach sleepersGel-flex grid responds to movementCooling featureConsExpensiveSpecsType: LatexSizes: Standard, kingWashable: CoverId tested several dozen pillows before I got around to trying a pair of Purple Harmony Pillowsand immediately, I knew something was different. Combining Talalay latex and a honeycomb grid, the Purple Harmony Pillows have a squishy, marshmallowy feel thats more like a childs toy than something to sleep on. And maybe thats the point. Ill admit I spent a fair amount of time hugging the pillows as I slept. They also passed the most important test: When I wasnt actively comparing pillows, I always put the Purple Harmony pair back on my bed (along with the Parachute Down pillows).Sleeping on the Purple Harmony Pillows is like sleeping on a giant marshmallow cloudbut one that still manages to provide an excellent level of support for my head, neck, and back. And thats what makes it different. Ive slept on plenty of squishy pillows, but I woke up with a crook in my neck and/or pain in my back or shoulder. However, the Purple Harmony Pillows created the sensation of sleeping on air. Also, the GridFlex material (hyper-elastic polymer) is designed to keep the pillows cool (which is important to me since I tend to be a hot sleeperprobably because Im under all my bedding regardless of the season).The pillows are also available in low, medium, and high loft. So, whether youre a back, side, or stomach sleeper, you can choose the loft that fits your sleeping style. Im a side and back sleeper (known as a combination sleeper), so a medium loft fits me perfectlyalthough the tall loft version would have as well. The low-profile version might be more suitable if youre a stomach and back sleeper.The GridFlex material is also hypoallergenic: both CertiPUR-US certified and CleanAir GOLD certified. The moisture-wicking cover is made of 92 perfect nylon fiber and 8 percent spandex fiber. It can be removed and laundered in the washing machine and then air-dried. (Purple Harmonys unique grid technology also earned a spot on our list of the best seat cushions for office chairs.)Best for side sleepers: Nest Bedding Easy Breather Side Sleeper PillowTerri Williams ProsDesigned specifically for side sleepersFill can be adjustedCooling featureConsOnly one sizeSpecsType: Shredded foamSizes: StandardWashable: CoverIm a combination sleeper (alternating between sleeping on my side and stomach), so I was eager to test a pillow designed specifically for side sleepers. The Nest Bedding Easy Breather Side Sleeper Pillows did not disappoint. Theyre shredded foam pillows, and the fill can be removed to customize the pillows. For example, if youre a back sleeper, removing about 25 percent of the fill can make it more comfortable; whereas, if you sleep on your stomach, removing about 33 percent of the fill can customize it for your desired height and firmness level. Note: the pillows ship overstuffed, and theres a bag included in case you want to take out some of the filling and store it away.The Nest Bedding Pillows come in three sizes: standard/queen, king, and side sleeper. The other two sizes look like regular pillows, but the side sleeper pillows have a curved cut-out. I found that this design provided a more comfortable sleeping experience and allowed my head and neck to be more aligned as I slept. Thats due in part to the plush foam filling and in part to my ability to make the pillow as thick or thin as I desired. This level of customization certainly contributes to the feeling of comfort and support. The pillows also have a breathable cover, so it doesnt trap heat, and this helps to keep me cool at night.The shredded foam is CertiPUR-US certified for low chemical off-gassing. The cover is removable and can be laundered in the washing machine and dried on low heat.Best for stomach sleepers: Sleep Number Comfort Fit PillowTerri Williams ProsCombines memory foam and down alternative fibersThree shapes to choose fromBreathable coverConsSpot clean onlySpecsType: Memory foam/Down alternative fibersSize: Standard, kingWashable: Spot clean onlyWhen Im not sleeping on my side, Im sleeping on my stomach, and the Sleep Number Comfort Fit Pillows provide a thoroughly comfortable yet supportive experience. The fill is made of memory foam and down alternative fibersso it provides the best of both worlds. I love the responsiveness of memory foam and also the softness of down. However, if youre allergic to down, this pillow still allows you to experience that soft and comfortable experience. The pillows have a Lyocell blend cover that is breathable and hypoallergenic.The Sleep Number ComfortFit Pillows come in three shapes. I have the Classic pillows, but the company also makes Curved pillows for back and side sleepers and Ultimate pillows with three removable inserts, so you can customize the height and level of support, making them a good choice for any type of sleeping position.The pillows use CertiPUR-US certified foams. Sleep Number recommends that the Classic and the Curved shape pillows be spot cleaned only, although the Ultimate pillows have a removable cover that can be machine washed. According to the company, the fill deteriorates every time a pillow is washed. And the down alternative material can lose its shape over a period of time and begin to clump. Sleep Number recommends using a pillow protector on the pillows.This is the only selection on our list that is neither a washable pillow nor has a removable cover. However, were making an exception because a memory foam and down alternative pillow that provides excellent support and comfort and is also breathable and hypoallergenic is worth considering. I use pillow protectors and tend to occasionally toss the pillows in the dryer on the antibacterial or steam setting.Best for back sleepers: Saatva Latex PillowTerri Williams ProsThick and plushAvailable in two loftsMachine washable fill and coverConsExpensiveSpecsType: Latex and microdenierSizes: Standard, kingWashable: Fiber layer and coverAnother hybrid option thats supremely comfortable yet supportive is the Saatva Latex Pillow. The pillows are a combination of shredded natural latex and a microdenier (down alternative) material. Im not usually a back sleeper, but I slept in this position for testing purposes. The pillows cradled my head and neck while sleeping and kept my back and spine in alignment as well, so I never experienced any type of neck or back pain. Thats because the inner core is made of a natural latex layer that provides head and neck support. And since its not synthetic, the material is also hypoallergenic, breathable, and resists dust mites and mildew. The fill layer provides a plush, down-like experience.The Saatva Latex Pillows have a luxurious look and feel as the result of the cotton cover, which has gusseted sides and contrast welting. The pillows come in two lofts. I have the standard loft, and this lower loft works best for back sleepers (and side sleepers as well). The high loft option is better for side and combination sleepersor for people who just want a plusher experience.Both the cover and the microdenier pillow are removable and can be machine-laundered and air-dried. However, the latex core cannot be washed.Best for neck pain: Ostrichpillow Memory Foam Bed PillowTerri Williams ProsThree-dimensional designSupports any sleep styleMultiple pillow-case colors availableConsSmaller than standard sizeSpecsType: Memory foamSizes: Smaller than regular bed pillowsWashable: Outer coverFun is not a word typically used to describe a pillow. However, that term certainly fits the Ostrichpillow Bed Pillows. Theyre smaller (25 x 15) than standard bed pillows (26 x 20), but I didnt miss those extra inches when testing a pair. The Ostrichpillow Bed Pillows are among the most versatile pillows Ive ever tested. The right and left sides of the pillow are designed for side sleepers, while the top and bottom sections are designed for back and stomach sleepers. The center of the pillow has a concave design to support my head perfectly.The ergonomic pillows greatly alleviate neck pain regardless of which position Im sleeping in. And they come in handy in other scenarios as well. For example, I tend to lounge on my sofa or my chaise lounge and often fall asleep. And when I do, I usually wake up with neck pain when sleeping on one of these pieces of furniture. However, the Ostrichpillow Ped Pillow is the perfect size to use on a sofa or chaise lounge, and I never experience neck pain when using it.The medium-density foam pillows absorb pressure and relax my neck, spine, and shoulder muscles. The open channels keep the pillows from trapping heat so they can circulate air. Another fun feature: You can purchase pillowcases for $19. Color choices include ocean slumber, sunset dream, forest snooze, dark night, and deep blue. The pillows outer cover is machine-washable.Best down pillow: Parachute Down PillowTerri Williams ProsSoft and plushThree densitiesPillow can be machine-washedConsNo removable coverSpecsType: DownSizes: Standard, kingWashable: PillowIf you love down pillowsand I dothe Parachute Down Pillow is our top choice. The European white down pillows are made of 85 percent down clusters and 15 percent down and feather fibers. In addition, they have a 100 percent cotton sateen shell with a double-stitched piping seam. The pillows are comparable to the type of pillows youd expect at your favorite high-end hotelbut you can have this experience every night in your own home.The pillows are plush and soft but still provide support for my head, neck, and back. Theyre available in three densities. I have the soft-density pair, and this version works well for side sleepers and those who prefer a squishier feel. The medium-density pillows are a good choice for back sleepers, and people who want more support. Back sleepers will also appreciate the firm-density version, as will sleepers who want the highest level of support. (Note: Parachute also makes a Side Sleeper Down Pillow for side sleepers.)The responsibly sourced down comes from RDS-certified suppliers, meaning the ducks and geese are humanely treated. I tend to fluff the pillows at least once a week to keep them nice and fat. The pillows can also be tossed into the washing machine to launder and then dried on a low cycle. However, they dont have a removable cover, so you cant just clean one thing instead of the entire pillows.What to consider when buying the best pillowsThere are several factors to consider when deciding which pillow is right for you. The following are some of the most important considerations:Sleeping positionYour sleeping stylesleeping positionis one of the most crucial factors to consider when looking for a pillow. A side sleeper would need to select a pillow that has enough support to allow the cervical neck to remain aligned with the rest of the spine, says Dr. Ruchir Patel, founder of TMS Institute of Arizona, an insomnia and sleep institute. He warns that you would not want a pillow that results in the neck being curved as this could create potential short-term and long-term neck issues.A back sleeper would need again to select a pillow that supports the back of the head but again one that helps to maintain good alignment of the neck with the rest of the spine, Patel says.Often a memory foam pillow with a curve designed specifically to support the neck is a great option, Patel says.If you tend to sleep on your stomach, a lower loft would do a better job of keeping you comfortable.ComfortRegarding comfort, sometimes its necessary to separate perception from reality. Individuals like to have a fluffy, down-filled pillow, but while comfort is very important, one must also consider the durability of the pillow and support as mentioned above, Patel says. For example, I love down pillows, but I know people who thought they loved down pillows until they actually tried themand found the pillows too soft to be supportive.Washability and durabilityBedding naturally collects sweat, skin cells, and allergens, making regular washing essential; however, not all pillows are designed to withstand frequent laundering without losing their shape or effectiveness, Dr. McKeon says. Also, some washable pillows take hours to dry, which can be a hassle. Pillows that have to be air-dried can take days to dry. On the other hand, some pillows have outer covers that can be removed and washed instead. This is my preferenceand then I use the antibacterial or steam feature on my dryer to clean the pillows at least once a quarter.If you put a pillow protector on your pillow, you wont need to clean the pillows as frequently.Limited exposure to harmful chemicalsMany pillows undergo chemical treatments to enhance wrinkle resistance, flame retardancy, or color vibrancy, McKeon says. Some pillows contain chemicals such as azo dyes, pesticides, VOCs, and other irritants that can trigger allergic reactions or skin irritation, he warns. McKeon recommends choosing a pillow that has been tested and proven to have a low presence of harmful chemicals, as this helps to create a healthier indoor environment.AllergiesLimiting exposure to harmful chemicals is especially important if you have allergies. Patel recommends avoiding anything that could disrupt your sleep secondary to allergic rhinitis, etc.McKeon agrees, adding that you should look for pillows with an outer fabric that effectively blocks dust mites and dust mite allergens from passing through. FAQSQ: How do I choose the best down pillow? McKeon recommends certified feather and down pillows.While feather allergies were once thought to be common, research now shows that most people who experience reactions to feather pillows are actually sensitive to dust mites or residual proteins Q: How often should pillows be replaced? To reduce exposure to common allergens, Kenneth Mendez, president and CEO of the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), recommends replacing bed pillows every two years or sooner based on the manufacturers recommendations. After two years, around 10 percentand sometimes even moreof the weight of your pillow can be from dead dust mites (tiny bugs that arent detectable by simply looking with your eyes) and their droppings, he warns. The fabric of the pillow can also become more permeable to dust mites, Mendez says, explaining that dust mites live practically everywhere, especially in fabric-covered items in your house and bedroom. You can be allergic to both the body parts and droppings of dust mitesand pet dander and mold can also be absorbed or retained by your pillow. In addition, Mendez explains that pillows can change shape and appearance over time due to regular use and washing. Q: How do you know when its time to replace pillows? In addition to the year-year rule, Mendez says there are also specific signs that you need to replace your pillows:Theyre discolored Discoloration could be a sign of moisture absorption or due to the collection of dust and other allergens.Theyve lost their shape A pillow that has lost its shape may pose risks unrelated to allergies (back and neck pain, etc.).They smell an unpleasant odor coming from your pillow could be a sign of mold, possibly due to sleeping on the pillow with damp hair. Some people are allergic to certain types of mold, and inhaling mold poses health risks even for people who do not have allergies.Allergies If you notice your allergy symptoms are worse at night or after youve slept on your pillow, it could be a sign that the pillow has collected and is holding allergens that trigger your symptoms. If the symptoms persist after washing the pillow, its time to consider replacing it. Q: Does a pillow protector really help? A, ensuring both comfort and protection, he explains. Q: Can I use a latex pillow if I have latex allergies? Yes. For example, according to Saatva, their natural latex undergoes a thorough washing process that removes allergy-causing proteins. In addition, the allergy layer never makes contact with the skin. Saatva notes that natural latex is also antimicrobial and resists mildew, dust mites, and other indoor allergens. Final thoughts on the best pillowsBest overall: Purple Harmony PillowBest for side sleepers: Nest Bedding Easy Breather Side Sleeper PillowBest for stomach sleepers: Sleep Number Comfort Fit PillowBest for back sleepers: Saatva Latex PillowBest for neck pain: Ostrichpillow Memory Foam Bed PillowBest down pillow: Parachute Down PillowThe right pillow should provide adequate comfort and supportand the best one for you might depend on your sleeping style. Whether you need a low, medium, or high loft, the pillow should also be easy to care for, avoid introducing allergens into your environment, and it should be easy to care for. Were confident that at least one of the options on our best pillows list will meet your needs.

Balancing my work schedule, meal planning, and family chores is like having a second full-time joband an unpaid one at that. Relying on sticky notes and whiteboards led me and my family to missed appointments and forgotten chores, so when I saw TikTok parents raving about this digital wall calendar, I knew we had to try it.I saw others talking about the Skylight, but its price tag and subscription cost to display photos turned me away. But this one thats $50 less and doubles as a digital photo frame for free is more my style.Test-driving the touchscreen calendar and chore chartSetupI recommend downloading the eCalendar app (available on the App Store and Google Play Store) for the most straightforward setup. There, I added my husbands and my work calendarsthey took about 24 hours to sync fully.I chose to mount my smart home calendar horizontally in our kitchen so its accessible to the whole family, though you can choose a vertical installation. You only need one screwor you can use the stand if you dont want to drill holes in your wall.Actually using the thingAdding calendars took care of my husband and Is work schedules and appointments, but not my two kids chores. Using the touchscreen on the calendar, I easily started assigning them chores and color-coding them based on their names.I also planned out meals for the whole monthsomething Ive always wanted to doso my kids no longer nag me about whats for dinner. Its also one less thing on my mind.Through this process, I also discovered I can use the eCalendar app to manage the calendar and tasks remotely. This summer, I might use this to add or remove chores from my kids based on their behavior.Finally, I added some family photos to the app so we could all enjoy the photo-frame capabilities of the digital calendar.Overall, Id recommend this Skylight calendar alternative to any busy family looking to simplify their planning and organization. Especially when its only $249.99 and the Skylight is currently $299.99.StackSocial prices subject to change.HD Touchscreen Digital Calendar & Chore Chart $249.99See Deal

NewsSpaceThe nearest single star to Earth has four small planetsThis is the second study in six months to find planets around Barnards star Four small, probably rocky planets orbit Barnards star (illustrated). The planetary system is the nearest one to the sun centered on a single star. R. Proctor and J. Pollard/International Gemini Observatory/NOIRLab/AURA/NSFBy Lisa Grossman34 seconds agoThe nearest single star to the sun, Barnards star, has a brood of planets all its own. The red dwarf star, about six light-years from Earth, hosts four close-in planets each about two to three times the mass of Mars, astronomers report in the March 20 Astrophysical Journal Letters.Barnards star has a long history of claimed detections, but none of them could be confirmed for a long time, says astronomer Ritvik Basant of the University of Chicago. Its pretty exciting to know whats orbiting the nearest stars.

Nature, Published online: 18 March 2025; doi:10.1038/d41586-025-00843-4Iguanas from the Americas might have rafted 8,000 kilometres across the Pacific Ocean to Fiji. Plus, that US scientists are being told to avoid mentions of mRNA vaccines in NIH grant applications.

Google X has introduced the Taara chip, a fingernail-sized invention that taps the "virtually limitless" potential of light-based internet connectivity.

"When a dragonfly hunts, it hovers perfectly still and positions itself between its prey and a shadow cast behind it by, say, a tree, concealing its position. It's a bit like creeping up on someone in a forest hiding behind branches."

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