Experts say that it is important for spouses to sleep together emotionally, but it can have different effects on sleep quality.
Expert Clinical Psychologist Merve Türkkol, who stated that physical contact can provide a sense of trust by increasing the secretion of oxytocin and can make it easier to fall asleep, said, “While sleeping in close contact with a partner creates a reassuring effect for some individuals, for others this can cause frequent sleep interruptions,” and made explanations about the effect of spouses sleeping together on sleep quality.
Physical contact can provide peaceful sleep
Sleep is a critical time period where physiological and psychological processes interact, allowing the body to rest and renew. Physical contact between partners can affect the process of falling asleep and the quality of sleep in various ways. Behaviors such as cuddling, holding hands or close contact in bed between couples can positively or negatively change the transition to sleep.
Among the positive effects of physical contact is the increase in the hormone oxytocin. Oxytocin is known as the ‘bonding hormone’ and can help reduce stress levels and help an individual experience a more comfortable sleep. Especially for individuals with anxiety disorders, being in touch with their partners can increase feelings of security and make it easier to fall asleep. In addition, hugging or holding hands activates the parasympathetic nervous system, slowing the heart rate and helping an individual sleep more peacefully.
It may also cause sleep disruption for some.
The effects of physical contact may not be the same for every couple. While sleeping in close contact with the partner creates a reassuring effect for some individuals, for others this can cause frequent sleep disruptions. Therefore, it is important for couples to discover their own comfort levels and adapt to each other’s needs. The degree of physical contact can be determined by the communication of the couples and solutions can be produced to improve the quality of sleep. For example, for couples who have difficulty sleeping with close contact in bed, it may be beneficial to prefer a larger bed or to limit contact for a certain period of time during sleep.
Different sleep habits can directly affect sleep quality
When couples’ sleep habits differ, this can have a significant impact on sleep quality. Factors such as individuals’ biological clocks, the time it takes to fall asleep, the frequency of bed movement, sleepwalking and teeth grinding can cause the sleep environment to be peaceful or interrupted. These differences can directly affect the couple’s resting process.
It can be difficult to achieve sleep harmony between individuals with different biological rhythms. If one partner prefers to go to bed early and wake up early while the other prefers to stay up late, this can delay one partner from falling asleep. In addition, if one partner has habits such as snoring, sleepwalking or moving frequently, this can cause the other’s sleep to be interrupted and the quality of rest to decrease. The effects of such external factors, especially during the transition to deep sleep, can directly affect the quality of sleep and cause the individual to feel tired.
The idea that co-sleeping is the cornerstone of a relationship doesn’t apply to every individual
For many couples, sleeping together is perceived as a sign of emotional closeness and commitment. However, due to factors that affect sleep quality, some couples may prefer to sleep in separate beds or separate rooms. This can change the dynamics of the relationship and create a sense of emotional distance in some individuals.
The effects of sleeping apart on a relationship depend on the couple’s communication and the quality of time they spend together. Research shows that poor sleep experiences can increase arguments between couples and make individuals feel more irritable. However, the idea that sleeping together is the cornerstone of a relationship doesn’t apply to everyone.
For couples with disturbed sleep patterns and different sleep habits, sleeping separately can be beneficial in maintaining a healthier relationship. In this context, it is important for couples who prefer separate sleep patterns to spend quality time together during the day. Thanks to behaviors that support bonding, such as hugging and chatting, sleeping in separate beds can become sustainable without causing emotional distance in the relationship.
To sleep comfortably together, you must synchronize your habits
Sleep is not only an individual need, but also one of the basic elements that affect couples’ relationships and overall quality of life. Studies show that sleep patterns and sleep quality have a direct impact on the emotional bond, communication and stress management between couples.
Suggestions for couples to have a healthier and more restful sleep
— If possible, try to sleep and wake up at similar times.
— You can create a sleeping area where you both feel comfortable by determining factors such as the temperature of the room, the sound level and the comfort of the bedding.
— Try to include physical contact in your routine. Relaxing activities that you do together before going to sleep, such as meditation, breathing exercises, or light stretching, can make the transition to sleep easier.
— It is important to see the bedroom as a peaceful space and not to carry negative emotions there. If you are having recurring arguments before sleep, you can recognize this and try to express your feelings in a healthier way during the day.
— Reading a book together, listening to soft music or chatting before going to sleep instead of using the phone or television can both improve the quality of sleep and contribute positively to your relationship.