Perturbed by partner’s sleep? Try sleep divorce

Have you been losing sleep for years over your partner's snoring, need for a much lower AC temperature than what you are comfortable with, or even sleepwalking or talking? Or do you prefer a different mattress or sleep setting than your partner does? Unlike in the past, gone are the days when couples 'adjust' all these discomforts for the sake of sleeping in the same room. `Sleep divorce' is a term that has gained widespread attention globally in recent times, though it has nothing to do with marital separation. Instead, it refers to couples choosing to sleep in separate beds or rooms to improve their sleep quality. Here's what you need to know. 

Benefits of sleep divorce
Many believe that `sleep divorce' might negatively impact marital life. However, if approached thoughtfully, it offers several benefits:

Challenges and solutions
Despite its advantages, sleep divorce can pose challenges. It can create the impression of reduced intimacy between partners. However, these concerns can be addressed with a few thoughtful steps:
• Communication: Before opting for 'sleep divorce,' have an open discussion with your partner. Understand each other’s needs.
 • Maintain intimacy: Even if sleeping in separate rooms, find ways to maintain emotional and physical closeness. Spend time together during the day, watch movies, or share meals.

• Compromise: Alternate between sleeping together and apart as needed. This allows flexibility in response to changing circumstances.
• Temporary arrangement: Sometimes, sleep divorce is a temporary solution, for instance, when one partner has a short-term issue like snoring. Once resolved, couples can return to their previous arrangement.
Sleep divorce is not a sign of a deteriorating relationship. Instead, it is a practical approach to ensure restful sleep tailored to individual needs, ultimately helping foster a happier, healthier relationship. Mutual understanding and open communication are key. Recognising what works best for your relationship and supporting each other is what truly matters.
(The author is Medical Director, ENT and Sleep Surgeon, Ascent ENT Hospital, Palakkad)