In 2018, a YouGov poll looked at the sleeping habits of 2,000 UK couples. The results revealed that one in seven UK people sleep in separate beds from their partner. It also found that 15% of people believed that if money and space weren’t issues, they would choose to sleep separately from their partner, whether it was a single bed or small double bed.

Those are some striking numbers. Sure, we are used to sleeping in single beds or small double beds from a young age. In fact, it can be quite nostalgic, especially when you’re in a new hotel room on holiday. But the idea that so many people sleep in small double beds separate from their partners is surprising.

Even though partner disturbance is one of the most common sleep concerns, sleeping in a bed with your partner actually offers a wealth of other benefits. So avoid being tempted by the single bed or small double bed and discover how sharing can be beneficial.

Health benefits

Sure, sleeping in the same bed as a loved one can be intimate and romantic. But, it also has many significant health advantages that you won’t get by sleeping in a single bed.

Sharing a bed with a partner can actually cause a drop in blood pressure, thanks to chemicals like oxytocin.  Additionally, sharing a bed with a partner can reduce the release of the stress hormone, cortisol. Since you feel safe sleeping next to each other – rather than fearful or scared – your glands don’t release the chemical. As a result, it can also reduce inflammation as well as mental health.

Schedule synchronisation

Many couples share the same sort of sleep schedule. They wake up at the same time and go to sleep at the same time too. To many, it’s a sign of a positive and happy relationship. That isn’t always the case with those who sleep separately in single beds or small double beds.

Therefore, by sharing the same bed, your circadian rhythm becomes more closely linked and you go about your daily routine in the same way. That means you can spend more time together while awake and more time together in bed before falling asleep.

More time your partner, the better. We hope you agree!

A boost of happiness and energy

When we experience pleasurable and positive events, our body releases dopamine. Its otherwise known as the ‘happy chemical’. When we sleep in the same bed as someone we love, we release this chemical which makes us even happier when we wake up.

With higher dopamine (and serotonin) levels, you are more likely to have better sleep quality, which helps you feel better rested and prepared the next day. In fact, there is research that demonstrates how women in committed relationships feel the advantages of sleeping with someone. The study found the women had better sleep and a better night’s rest when they were in bed with someone they love. Now that’s something you don’t get from a small double bed.

You can fall asleep faster

Sometimes, when you’re alone, it is very simple to lose yourself in your own thoughts. When you’re tossing and turning in your single bed because you’re overthinking, it isn’t pleasant. But when you sleep in a bed with someone you love, you’re more likely to unwind and nod off.

When you share a bed you experience boosted levels of protection and security. Thanks to increased feelings of mental wellbeing you can fall asleep more quickly, experience improved rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, and perhaps, if you’re lucky, sleep all night long!

Reaching the perfect sleep temperature

According to sleep specialists, 20°C is the ideal temperature for a sleeping environment. But if its winter and you can’t afford to pay heating (like many of us right now!) this isn’t always possible to achieve. In fact, not having the ideal room temperature can be a cause of insomnia!

By sharing a bed with your loved one, you can cuddle together for body warmth to fall asleep faster. If you’re in separate single beds, it is the perfect fix!

Stronger connection

No matter the stage in your relationship, sharing a bed can be beneficial. Whether you’ve been happily married for 20 years, have just started living together, or are still trying to figure out exactly what’s going on, sleeping together can help you feel closer to your partner.

Whether its talking in the evening, reading together, having a cuddle or engaging in any other activities they are all healthy and promote a great relationship. It’s not as easy in a single bed or small double bed, right?

Ditch the single bed

So it seems pretty clear, the single bed or small double bed just isn’t worth it. Maybe your partner snores or twitches a lot in bed, but the benefits of sharing a bed with your partner outweigh the negatives.

Lowered blood pressure, a stronger immune system, reduced inflammation and deeper REM sleep. What’s not to like?  Mental positives include reduced anxiety, a sense of safety, improved sleep quality, and increased happiness. And of course, if you’re sharing a bed with your partner, it can create a stronger relationship. And that’s good for everyone