Sleep is one of the fundamental pillars of well-being. But what happens when we sleep as a couple? If you can share the bed, staying close (not necessarily hugging each other) your relationship is strong and your health is safe. Various research conducted in recent years has certified this. According to an investigation conducted by the doctors of Center for Integrative Psychiatry in Germany, partners who manage to synchronize sleep patterns have a higher memory consolidationsocial interactions and are more creative. But not only.
Sleeping as a couple improves the quality of sleep
A study conducted by the University of Pittsburgh found that couples who sleep together have a better sleep quality compared to those who sleep alone. In fact, those who have someone with whom they have a good intimate relationship next to them are able to do so during sleep harmonize the movements of the limbs and have better creative abilities in the morning and more memory. Sharing the bed also strengthens the REM phase, consequently i dreams they result more vivid and frequent.
Reduces stress
Physical contact during sleep can positively influence stress levels. Research published in the journal Psychosomatic Medicine has shown that physical contact, such as hugging or holding hands during sleep, can reduce cortisol levelsthe stress hormone, promoting deeper, more restful sleep.
Sleeping as a couple promotes emotional well-being
Sleeping as a couple can also promote emotional well-being. A study from the University of Hertfordshire found that people who sleep next to their partner are happier and more satisfied with their relationship than those who sleep alone. THEThe sense of closeness and intimacy during sleep can strengthen emotional bonds Apr and partner.
It is a panacea for cardiovascular health
Sleeping next to your partner can also have benefits for cardiovascular health. Research conducted at the University of Arizona has shown that couples who sleep together tend to have lower blood pressure during sleep compared to those who sleep alone. This can reduce the risk of hypertension and others cardiovascular diseases.
Sleeping next to a pet
Even the presence of a pet during sleep can reduce stress and anxiety levels. The company of a pet can have a calming effect on the nervous systemhelping to reduce the production of cortisol. The feeling of security and comfort that comes from the presence of the animal can promote deeper and more restful sleep.
Tips for sleeping better as a couple
Sleeping with people we are close to indicates, even on an unconscious level, that the environment is safe and sleep is more stable. All this is valid as long as there is chemistry with the partner. To try to improve bed sharing some can be followed directions.
Choose an appropriate mattress
Make sure the mattress is large enough to accommodate both partners comfortably, minimizing sleep disturbances due to movement.
Respect individual preferences
If one partner has specific sleep needs, such as room temperature or pillow type, find a compromise that satisfies both. Otherwise you can find solutions such as a topper, which improves the comfort of one side of the mattress or use separate duvets that have different degrees of warmth.
Create a sleep routine
Establishing a relaxing pre-sleep routine can help both partners prepare for a restful night. This could include activities such as reading or meditation.
Communicate openly
If either partner has trouble sleeping, it’s important to communicate openly and seek solutions together. This might include looking for strategies to reduce sleep disturbances, such as using eye masks or earplugs.
For those who cannot sleep as a couple there is sleep divorce
However, if you are unable to find a solution due to a partner who snores or turns over too many times in bed, all that remains is to put sleep divorce into practice. The term refers to the practice of sleep in separate rooms from your partner to improve the quality of your sleep. It is not necessarily a separation in the traditional sense, but rather a consensual choice to sleep in separate rooms in order to improve a night’s rest.