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Printer FriendlySleep Tips for Couples
Many Americans find it difficult to get a good night's sleep on their own, let alone with someone else sharing their bed. Not only can daily stress keep you awake, but your sleeping partner may also cause you to toss and turn. In fact, the National Sleep Foundation's 2005 Sleep in America poll reported a person can lose up to 49 minutes of sleep a night - or about 300 hours a year - when disturbed by a sleep partner.
Following are some common sleep disturbances and ways to overcome them for a better night's rest for you and your partner.
Snoring - If your partner's snoring keeps you up at night, try going to bed first and have your partner come to bed late. This will allow you to fall into deep sleep while your surrounding are quiet.
Tossing and Turning - Is your partner a restless sleeper? If so, he or she could be keeping you up at night, too. Creating barrier of pillows between you can help minimize the bed movement and sounds created as your partner changes position at night.
Temperature Preferences - You may be cold at night, while your partner complains that it's too warm in bed. To make you both comfortable as possible, purchase bedding that accommodates you both - like a dual weight comforter. One side is heavier to keep you warm and the other side lightweight to keep your partner cool.
Bedroom Activities - Does your partner bring work to bed, or prefer to fall asleep to the sound of the television each night? Sleep experts suggest using the bedroom only for relaxing rituals and sleep. Create a bedroom sanctuary conducive to these activities, leaving the computers and televisions for other rooms in the house.
Mattress Firmness - Your bed is the most important piece of furniture in the bedroom and has the greatest impact on the quality of sleep you get each night. If you prefer a softer mattress and your partner requires a firm mattress, consider a bed that allows each of you to choose your own firmness preference for your side of the bed.
