Remember those old TV shows where sleeping in separate beds after an argument was reserved for couples who couldn’t stand each other? It seemed like a relic of the past, but what if there was more to it than we thought? These days, “divorce in your sleep” is a real phenomenon and may be the secret to maintaining a healthy relationship.
Of mutual understanding love languages to to good communication and questionsOur following thought might help you if you think that sleeping in separate beds after an argument is terrible.
Reclaim Your Space: The Power of Sleep Separation
There is a widespread belief in our culture that couples should share a bed every night. But what if this isn’t always the best approach? Could it actually be beneficial to take a break from being around your partner, especially after a disagreement? Turns out it was exactly what the doctor ordered.
Gain clarity through separation
Have you ever gone to bed angry and woken up feeling like a whole new person? Sleeping in separate beds or even a night on the couch can provide the space needed to release tension and look at the issue from a new perspective. It’s like hitting the reset button on your emotions.
The surprising benefits of being in a relationship
If you’ve ever thought about sleeping separately from your partner after an argument, you’re not alone. A Sleep Foundation survey found that 52.9% of adults who slept separately for various reasons reported better sleep quality and slept 37 minutes more per night. Some even returned to bed-sharing because they missed their partner.
Stronger marriages through sleep separation
Susan Heitler, PhD, author of “The Power of Two: Secrets of a Strong and Loving Marriage,” notes that many clients who sleep apart experience better marriages as a result. It seems that a little space can go a long way in maintaining a healthy relationship.
The communication puzzle
Of course, every coin has a downside. Sleeping apart during an argument may indicate a communication breakdown or an unhealthy way of dealing with conflict. Dr. Sarah Schewitz, love and relationship psychologist, advises against prolonged sleep separation during arguments, as this can promote separation and resentment.
When it’s okay to sleep separately
While Dr. While Schewitz advises against sleeping frequently, she acknowledges that it can be beneficial in the short term. “In my opinion, it is only appropriate to sleep separately during an argument if an argument is really recent and if you are in the same bed with your partner you can no longer sleep.” When it becomes a recurring pattern, that is It’s a smart move to seek the help of a couples therapist.
Sleep, conflict and relationship dynamics
For many, a good night’s sleep is essential to thinking positively and communicating effectively. Research even suggests that inadequate sleep can lead to more arguments. A study from The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center found that couples who slept less than seven hours a night were more likely to argue or be mean to each other, with inflammatory markers increasing with each hour of sleep lost.
The restorative power of solitude
Not everyone has the luxury of a second bed, but those who do often find it a refuge. Sleeping alone can be incredibly restorative and allows you to appreciate your relationship more, despite its imperfections. Every relationship is unique, and if spending a night apart helps you hit the reset button, it’s worth considering.
Sleeping in separate beds after an argument
In conclusion, sleeping in separate beds after an argument is not a one-size-fits-all solution, but it is a tool worth having in your relationship toolkit. It can provide the clarity and restful calm needed to overcome conflicts with a clear mind. So when you find yourself in the middle of a disagreement, don’t hesitate to give yourself permission to sleep apart if necessary. After all, a rested mind is often the key to a stronger, more loving connection.