Some people can have the most pleasant sleep next to their partner and sleep soundlessly for years, being cuddled and embraced. Similarly, some partners cannot sleep soundlessly next to their partners for years and they could think of nothing worse!
It doesn’t mean the relationship is doomed or there are issues because of it. It just means everyone’s different and some people enjoy their space and need their sleep. Seriously, some people move continuously, snore, roll, shuffle, wobble and this is hard to put up with. Of course if you are really okay with it and you can sleep with ear plugs or a divider – then great!
Quality of sleep is vital and I think if this is being jeopardised for months and years; it can be detrimental to individuals and the relationship. The bad news is people probably get used to little sleep due to disruptions and they might think their unhealthy pattern of disrupted sleep is normal. If you think your sleep is being disturbed by a significant other and sleeping separately might help, it might be worth considering. Thousands of couples have slept separately in the past and this will always be the case, but sometimes people don’t want to admit it due to the stigma attached.
Another difficult part is when a partner takes the message as a rejection, rather than it being just an uncomfortable feeling for the other. The important message to convey is it’s about you needing sleep and not that you don’t want to be near them.The change can be difficult and it can take time for both partners to feel comfortable with the new sleeping arrangement. The first step is to have a discussion with your partner at a time, other than bed time! Even if you just trial it and maybe you sleep in the same bed every second night or on weekends!
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