Expert: How To Avoid A Sleep Divorce This Valentine’s Day 

One of the UK’s leading experts has shared his advice on how couples can avoid a sleep divorce this Valentine’s Day.

It’s believed as many as one in four couples now opt for separate beds to get a good night’s sleep.

Although some end up back in the same room, a sleep divorce can often become a permanent fixture.

But sleep expert Martin Seeley, from MattressNextDay said an increasingly popular alternative is the “Scandinavian sleep method”.

He said: “Sleep divorces are becoming more popular as people recognise the negative effects of poor sleep on health and relationships.

“Many people choose to sleep separately to reduce sleep interruptions. Partners who sleep in the same bed often find they may disturb each other’s sleep through snoring, fidgeting or taking the duvet.

“One way to get around this is the Scandinavian sleep method. This simply means that rather than a couple sharing one duvet they each have their own.

“It works particularly well for couples who might need to keep cool when they sleep whilst the other likes to be warm or if one person hogs the sheets.

“It also removes one of the other downsides of a sleep divorce, which is reduced intimacy.

“Many couples who try sleeping separately end up missing each other. If you are used to sharing a bed with someone, suddenly sleeping alone might feel lonely.”

Meanwhile Martin also warns that not everyone might find that a sleep divorce results in a better night’s sleep.

“Although sleeping separately improves sleep quality for some, it reduces sleep quality for others.

“It might be worth looking at the Scandinavian method first and investing in pillows which are designed to help reduce snoring before you take the step switch to separate rooms.

“If it is snoring which is motivating you to try a sleep divorce, you should consider getting screened for sleep apnoea.

“Snoring is a key symptom of this disorder which can have a significant impact on the sufferer’s physical and mental health.

“Other symptoms include feeling tired during the day, gasping or pausing for breath during sleep and waking up during the night.”

How it works: Scandinavian Sleep Method 

The Scandinavian sleep method originated in Scandinavian countries, such as Sweden, Norway, and Denmark. The method became popular in the US after a viral TikTok post by Swedish influencer Cecilia Blomdahl.

It is a sleeping style where couples share a bed but use separate duvets. This method allows each person to personalize their sleep and minimize disturbing their partner.

Couples use two separate duvets, quilts, or blankets instead of sharing one. Each person can choose their own duvet tog to regulate their temperature. Partners can choose different fills, such as wool, silk, goose feather, or synthetic. The method can help reduce sleep disruptions caused by movement, ambient light, and noise.

Benefits:

Allows couples to co-sleep while still having autonomy.

Can help couples fall asleep and stay asleep.

Can help couples wake up feeling more refreshed.

Can help reduce the risk of negative mental and physical consequences, such as depression, anxiety, heart disease, and cognitive decline.

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