Two beds for one couple: why do so many Europeans, Koreans, and Japanese prefer to sleep in separate beds?
Typically, married couples share a room and sleep in the same bed together. It’s pretty common in Japan for married couples to sleep in separate beds. They’re different not only when it comes to beds but also in the number of bedrooms. Actually, a lot of couples in smaller houses and flats still end up sleeping in separate beds or even in different rooms.
Image Source: www.marriage.com
Still, this didn’t end up being a personal issue or a sign of any relationship trouble for them. Lots of married couples think that sleeping separately can actually be beneficial for them.
There are strong reasons why some couples feel this choice to be good for their relationship and overall well-being, despite the fact that it may be associated with some stigma and raise concerns about the influence it will have on the dynamics of the family’s connection. Let’s look more into the reasons why couples in Japan and other countries choose to sleep in different accommodations, as well as the potential benefits that this preference can give.
1. Addressing sleep-related issues
One of the most prevalent reasons for couples to sleep separately is to handle sleep-related issues that may develop during the night. Snoring, restlessness, parasomnia, frequent toilet excursions, and conflicting sleep cycles can all impair both partners’ sleep, resulting in greater weariness and irritability during the day. Couples who sleep in separate beds can benefit from greater sleep quality and fewer interruptions, which can improve their happiness and health.2 Research has shown that better sleep results in more meaningful interactions during the day and a happier, healthier life together.
2. People often end up sleeping in separate beds, mainly because of snoring and mismatched sleep/wake schedules.
People have a bunch of reasons for enjoying their own space when it comes to sleep, even if they’re in serious relationships. Most people who sleep apart from their partner mentioned that snoring and different sleep/wake schedules were why they chose to stop sharing a bed.
3. Showing Love in Different Ways
Sleeping apart does not imply a lack of affection or emotional connection between spouses. Couples who sleep alone can still express their love and dedication in a variety of ways throughout their everyday lives. Simple gestures such as holding hands, complementing each other, or spending quality time together can reassure their children and others that their relationship is strong, even if they prefer to sleep in seperate.
4. Resolving Conflicts and Reduced Resentment
Sharing a bed can occasionally lead to problems caused by differing sleeping habits or nighttime interruptions. Over time, such disputes can lead to resentment, altering the overall dynamics of the partnership. Couples can avoid these concerns by sleeping separately, avoiding them from becoming greater problems. It allows each couple to keep their own sleep schedule, ensuring that they both wake up refreshed and ready to face the day without unneeded conflict.
5. Sleeping apart equals tranquility.
While many couples who start sleeping apart worry about divorce, the Japanese, Korean, and other states have a different perspective. They value their sleep and want not to be disturbed. This means they don’t need to and cannot tolerate snoring, restless sleep, kicking, and other similar actions. Even if some people do not have the luxury of sleeping in separate rooms, they still want to get a good night’s sleep and be free of distractions.
6. Preserving intimacy and romance
Some may think that sleeping in separate beds may lead to a decrease in closeness, but research suggests otherwise. Couples who sleep apart for better sleep have been demonstrated to have just as romantic a relationship as those who share a bed. Intimacy in a relationship isn’t just about sharing a bed. Emotional ties, mutual respect, and communication all play an important part in maintaining and improving intimacy, regardless of sleeping arrangements.
