Have you heard the latest trend that Reader’s Digest is promoting and encouraging?
Okay, we realize that every person is unique, which can lead to some disagreements, but sleeping in separate beds is never a good solution. It can be hard to figure out how to sleep in the same bed with someone, especially if there are issues like snoring or a difference in mattress preferences. However, we think married couples SHOULD sleep in the same bed for many reasons.
The Separate Bed Trend
Sleep is pretty important, especially since many people in America suffer from sleep deprivation. This problem affects men and women though it seems to have more detrimental effects on women. Some women are more susceptible to things like anxiety, hostility, depression, and other issues.
This reality could be fueling a new trend being promoted to couples: the separate bed trend. There are many reasons why sleeping separately is becoming popular. For example, you do not have to worry about things like blanket hogging, snoring, or other things that can disturb someone’s sleep.
The problem is that this solution seems to simply go around the problems couples might have when they sleep in the same bed rather than face them and work through it.
Why Sleeping Together is Important
Yes, sleep deprivation is a major concern, but that doesn’t mean couples must sleep separately to get enough rest. You can take active steps towards making your bed comfortable for both you without taking such a drastic step. Even if you are cosleeping with a newborn, it’s totally possible to get the best night’s sleep together, in the same bed.
A study points out that the happiest couples sleep in the same bed together. Now, sleeping together could mean all sorts of things, but the study highlighted that couples whose bodies touch while they sleep are quite content in life and in their relationships. This is not to say that personal space is not important. Some of the couples in the study slept back-to-back while still reporting high levels of happiness.
The key here is to try to find a way to make sure you are both happy
How to Improve Your Sleep Together
Those who have been in a long-term relationship probably know that most issues can be resolved by addressing them. It may seem a little intimidating to talk about things you do not want to discuss, but addressing these issues can improve sleep for both of you. My grandparents set the best example for me growing up – they never went to bed angry at each other. No matter how much they fought or yelled at each other during the day, they would always make up before they went to bed and kiss each other goodnight.
The following are a few tips to help you get more sleep with your spouse so you can sleep in the same bed:
The Bed
One of the first things you should talk about is the comfort level of your bed! This might seem obvious, but you need to make sure your bed is large enough for the two of you and a baby too if you’re co-sleeping. A good rule of thumb is to go for a king size mattress. With a big bed, you have the option of having your own space if you want it. You can still sleep close to each other if you want to, but the room gives you a sense of freedom when you don’t want to cuddle. Additionally, you need to make sure that the bed you choose is comfortable for BOTH of you so you can happily sleep in the same bed.
The Snuggle
You should also talk to your partner about snuggling preferences. Some people love to snuggle but others find it uncomfortable. I love to cuddle but my husband can’t fall
Body Temperature
Those who are bothered by their partner’s natural body temperature need to take steps to make your sleep more comfortable. For example, if you have a partner with a hot body temperature, you should consider sleeping with silk or satin pajamas because it can help keep you cool. Microfiber sheets can make your sweat because they are basically made from plastic which doesn’t breath. Look for bamboo sheets or cotton sheets which breath and absorb moisture. You can sleep in the same bed and still avoid overheating with just a few changes.
Sleep Sensitivity
Some people have problems staying asleep if a light is on or if there is too much noise. This could be a problem for those who have a partner who is noisy at night or loves a nightlight. Do not fret about this; there are a few steps you can take to ensure a good night’s sleep. For one, you can wear an eye mask at night to block out any light disturbances, and you can use a white noise machine to drown out noises that could startle you out of your sleep. This is a great way to be able to sleep in the same bed.
These are just some of the steps you can take to sleep with your partner. There is no need to give in the to the separate bed trend. Just work together to find a way to satisfy both of your sleeping needs so you can sleep in the same bed. You two are worth the effort, and hopefully, some of these suggestions help!
