Why Some Happy Couples Sleep in Separate Rooms
Most married couples look forward to sharing a bed after a long day. Spending time being physically close to your partner is an important component to any romantic relationship. A lack of physical intimacy is often associated with a higher likelihood of divorce. According to a study by the National Sleep Foundation, however, many married couples are choosing to sleep in separate bedrooms.
A Better Night's Rest Can Lead to a Healthier Relationship
Whether we like to admit it or not, most of us have at least some annoying nighttime habits. Some snore loudly or toss and turn; others talk in their sleep or sleepwalk. A person may get up to go to the bathroom several times throughout the night or be unable to stay asleep because of insomnia or other health issues. All of these interruptions can lead to a very unrestful night for a partner sharing the same bed. After a night of being interrupted and getting little quality sleep, a person is likely to be grumpy and irritable. Some may even feel anger or resentment towards their partner for disrupting their sleep – even if they know it is not their partner’s fault. This resentment can build up over time and be a catalyst for arguing and poor communication between spouses.
The Value of Alone Time
Experts agree that while spending time together is a necessary part of a healthy relationship, everyone needs their space once in a while. Some couples find this space in separate bedrooms. Such independence allows them to do more of the activities they enjoy without bothering their partner. For example, some individuals may like waking up early in the morning and starting their day while others want to sleep longer.
Having separate spaces also allows each partner to choose what to have in their room. A person can decorate the room how they choose, have the type of bed they find most comfortable, and have white noise or other environmental influences which make them most relaxed without worrying about imposing on their partner. Many couples who sleep in separate bedrooms still make time to be together throughout the day or on weekends. Others do not sleep separately every night; they may choose where to sleep based on the next day’s plans. While sleeping separately may not be for everyone, there is a growing percentage of couples who believe that happier nights have made for a much more stable marriage.
Unfortunately, a change in sleeping arrangements may not be sufficient to fix a marriage in serious disrepair. If your relationship has broken down to the point where you are considering a divorce, contact an experienced DuPage County divorce attorney. Call 630-409-8184 for a confidential consultation at the Law Office of Matthew M. Williams, P.C. today.
Sources:
http://www.amandazayde.com/
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/should-i-sleep-in-a-separate-bed_us_572278e5e4b01a5ebde51c14
http://www.today.com/health/happily-united-separate-rooms-why-my-husband-i-sleep-apart-t104101