“Better alone than in bad company.” This is what popular wisdom suggests… but when it comes to sleep, is it better to be alone or with your partner?
Science still doesn’t have a definitive answer. In other words, sleep is such a personal matter that everyone has their own preferences.
However, one thing is certain: sleeping well is crucial for both health and relationship quality.
Yet, thanks to a trend popularized by some celebrities, the concept of Sleep Divorce—sleeping in separate beds—is gaining traction.
In this context, Emma – The Sleep Company, a leading global brand in this industry, wanted to share some tips to help improve couple well-being starting from resting.
Sleep Divorce: What It Is and Its Benefits
As an integral part of our overall health, quality rest should never be neglected.
The trend of Sleep Divorce is based on the idea that sleeping separately can actually improve the relationship, especially in cases where co-sleeping makes it hard for one or both partners to sleep well.
This trend is essentially a consensual decision to be in separate beds under the same roof, not due to relationship strife, but with the aim of enhancing both partners’ sleep and health.
This practice is already established in many cultures, such as the Japanese, and is becoming more common in the West, partly thanks to numerous celebrity couples who have adopted this system.
Happy Rest, Happy Couple
Healthy and restful sleep can be fundamental within a relationship. If our rest is disturbed or we don’t get enough hours, it will certainly affect our mood the next day.
This doesn’t help us be loving partners. We may easily find ourselves irritated and resentful towards the other person, especially if they are the cause of our poor rest.
This idea is supported by a study from Ohio State University, which found that poor sleep quality increases communication problems and conflicts in relationships.
Moreover, without energy, we are less inclined to spend time with our partner. Over time, this can be detrimental to the relationship and even lead to a breakup.
To Sleep Together or Apart? The Pros and Cons
It’s well established that couples’ sleep is interdependent.
Whether being in bed together is positive or negative depends on each individual and the overall strength of the relationship. However, studies show clear benefits.
For instance, smelling your partner while falling asleep can enhance efficiency. Additionally, sleeping together can increase the amount of REM sleep.
The REM phase is the deep phase where we dream, and it is closely linked to our emotional conflicts. During this phase, the body reduces and removes a stress hormone called norepinephrine, helping us wake up more relaxed.
It’s also important to note that physical contact releases oxytocin, the “love hormone.” This has positive effects on both stress levels and our connection with our partner. A recent study found that sleeping with a partner improves intimacy and synchronizes heartbeats.
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This article first appeared on Grazia.it – Author: Miriam Tagini
