Sleep Divorces: Better Sleep for Better Relationships?

The 'sleep divorce' concept - where couples sleep in separate beds or rooms to improve their sleep quality - has recently gained popularity among celebs and everyday couples alike. While it may seem like an easy fix to address issues like snoring, mismatched schedules, or tossing and turning, the long-term impact of sleeping apart can quietly erode a relationship's foundation. 

Sharing a bed isn’t just about rest; it’s about intimacy, connection, and bonding. Some argue it also plays a critical role in maintaining emotional closeness and strengthening your relationship. Instead of opting for separate spaces, addressing sleep challenges as a team can foster deeper intimacy, better communication, and a stronger partnership.

A new study by Simba reveals a big generational divide on the importance of sleep in relationships. Over 60% of young Brits in relationships (aged 18-34) believe better sleep would improve their connection with their partner, while only 33% of baby boomers (aged 65+) agree.

Couples who have seen their relationships strained by sleep differences have been pleasantly surprised by the results of a state-of-the-art bed available at Simba. The “comfortable” and “supportive” mattress is already a huge hit with shoppers who have praised it for alleviating the effects of fidgety sleepers and snoring partners.

Giving the Hybrid Original a five-star review on Trustpilot, one reviewer, Julia G said: 

“Haven't had a full nights [sic] sleep for many years as my husband has a medical condition and snores dreadfully. But thanks to Simba this is a thing of the past, hasn't cured the snoring but certainly much improved and am able to get more good nights sleep [sic].”

Using the data of over ten million sleepers, Simba’s mattresses have been expertly designed to suit every body type and sleep style. Crafted from five layers of clever materials, with 1,900 supportive titanium Aerocoil® micro springs, based on a king size, an extra deep layer of Simbatex® foam adds elasticity for cushioning comfort. The foam base of the plush 25cm deep HybridⓇ features nine support zones designed to mirror the body, especially heavier, wider areas such as the hips and shoulders.

Another customer, Emma T, said: 

“The 3 in 1 hybrid duvet is an amazing addition if you can take the cost because it's not cheap but wow I can't see how Simba could improve on it. It regulates temperature perfectly. I'm a warm sleeper my wife is always cold but under this duvet and on the perfectly regulated temperature of the mattress we're both sleeping like babies.” 

Sleep experts like Lisa Artis, CEO of The Sleep Charity, warn against the sleep divorce trend. She believes that younger couples should “consciously recouple and sleep better together” and say goodnight to the sleep divorce for good.

“While sleeping separately might seem like a solution to individual sleep issues, the benefits of co-sleeping for emotional bonding, conflict resolution, and overall health and well-being make a strong case against sleep divorces. Compared to sleeping individually, studies have shown co-sleeping was associated with about 10% more and less fragmented REM sleep.”

Lisa has given five scientifically-backed reasons to say goodnight to sleep divorces:

    1. Emotional Bonding and Intimacy

Sharing a bed strengthens intimacy and emotional connections. The physical closeness triggers the release of oxytocin, often called the 'love hormone,' which fosters feelings of affection and trust. Research indicates that couples who share a bed tend to experience greater relationship satisfaction and deeper emotional closeness.

    2. Improved Sleep Quality

Studies indicate that sharing a bed can improve sleep quality. Couples often align their sleep patterns, resulting in deeper and more restful sleep. Moreover, the comfort and security of a partner’s presence can help lower stress and anxiety, which are frequent causes of sleep disturbances.

    3. Better Conflict Resolution

Couples who share a bed often resolve conflicts more efficiently. Being physically close creates chances for late-night talks and resolutions, making it less likely they'll go to sleep upset. This habit can lead to improved communication and a deeper understanding of one another in the relationship.

    4. Enhanced Mental and Physical Health

Sleeping alongside a partner has been associated with several health benefits. Sharing a bed can reduce cortisol levels (the stress hormone), and strengthen the immune system. Additionally, consistent physical contact and emotional support from a partner can enhance mental well-being.

    5. Strengthened Relationship Stability

Physical closeness, even while sleeping, strengthens the bond and commitment between partners. Couples who share a bed frequently express feeling more secure and appreciated in their relationship. This sense of stability plays a key role in fostering long-term relationship success.

* Simba commissioned Sago to poll 2,017 respondents for the research. 

Would you consider a sleep divorce? Share your thoughts in the comments below!