Does your partner’s tossing and turning keep you from getting a decent night’s sleep? Wonder if sleeping alone is the solution? While it may seem an attractive option, don’t head to the couch just yet.
The choice of whether or not to sleep alone often comes down to things like, whether your partner snores or has other health issues, if one is a deep sleeper and another a light sleeper, or a night-owl with an early riser. According to the National Sleep Organization, “About 25 percent of married people or those who live with a significant other sleep in separate beds. And, “About 26 percent of people say that they get a more restful night’s sleep when they sleep alone.” On the other hand, a 2009 study found that some women slept better with their partners, possibly because people who share a sleep space often feel safer and are less anxious.
However, there are some other criteria to consider, such as your mattress. The National Sleep Organization says: “If a mattress is at the heart of your sleep issues, consider investing in a quieter mattress. If you or your partner is a light sleeper, look into purchasing a memory foam mattress or latex bed. Each of these types of mattresses can absorb your partner’s nocturnal movements.”
If your partner snores, maybe they should look into an anti-snore pillow or get a medical check-up to make sure it’s nothing more serious. It could also be as simple as a white noise machine to reduce the sound of snoring or tossing and turning. You can find white noise sounds by downloading the Rain Rain app.
Just like any other issue in a relationship it often comes down to good communication. Discuss things like room temperature (neither too hot nor cold), darkness (dark is better), quiet (quiet is best) and also each other’s bedtimes. If all else fails, there’s always the couch.