Did you know that on average each person spends about one-third of his or her lifetime in bed? Considering sleep is one of the best things we can do for ourselves, it definitely makes sense, which means that our beds need to be a healthy place to rest. According to the October 2009 issue of Glamour magazine, our pillows can contain as many as 47 different types of fungi, so it is important to know what goes into them. For example, down pillows can actually double in size within their first year of use due to the fecal matter of dust mites and other bacteria that hangs out where you rest your head. As someone who suffers from allergies and asthma, I made the switch to Natura pillows a few years ago. Natura has been making all-natural pillows, bedding and mattresses since 1994. The company’s CEO, Ralph Rossdeutscher, says, “Healthy sleep is vital to a healthy life, and we believe using natural materials is the best solution for ourselves and our planet. By using sustainable, earth-friendly manufacturing practices and materials, Natura is truly where nature meets nurture.” If you have been searching for that perfect pillow, Natura probably makes it. My favorite is the Organic Dream Mate, which is made from shredded natural latex (derived from the Pará rubber tree in Asia) and is hypoallergenic and antimicrobial. Natura invented the shredded latex process to keep latex from the landfill — latex ends are shredded and then used for pillow cores. And because the latex is natural, this also means that the pillows will biodegrade easier in the landfill. Do you wake up feeling achy with tension in your neck, shoulders and back? If so, it is most likely because it’s time for a new pillow. I like the Organic Dream Mate because it gives the cozy, comfortable feeling of down while also providing support to relax my muscles. I was surprised that I felt relief almost instantly because I never realized I was hurting my sleep. The Organic Dream Mate has a 100% organic wool liner and a 100% organic velour cotton cover. Other resources that Natura uses in its products are organic wool, foam that is made from 30% soy (rather than petroleum) and recycled water bottles. While there are many eco-bedding products on the market today, I like Natura because it has been recognized with a slew of awards and certifications, and because the company is committed to transparency. The pillows start at about $80, but are well worth it because they last for years. And when it comes to getting a better, healthier night’s sleep, I’ve learned that is priceless.