Sleeping is an essential function for a healthy life, one that we spend roughly one-third of our lives doing. A good night’s rest is often something we look forward to, and nothing sounds more comfortable than sleeping (and snuggling up) next to your spouse, child, or pet after a long day. But everyone’s sleep habits and styles are different. And with the current emphasis on healthy sleep, many are starting to wonder if its best to sleep alone or together?

People around the world have been sleeping have been sleeping in the same beds and rooms for a very, very long time. But, there have been instances of married couples throughout history sleeping in separate beds as well. Even with new fascinating scientific finds, the topic of sleeping alone or not has been a hot debate.

Pros

Ones of the biggest benefits of sleeping next to a loved one, is a promoted feeling of security while asleep. This also helps to reduce stress, which is important for your quality of sleep. Couples who sleep together also have increased levels of oxytocin or the “love hormone”. Couples often find themselves having more regular sleep cycles when together, as well as deeper sleep.

Co-sleeping with your child has many benefits as well. Sleeping with your children can increase bonding between parent and child, reduce nighttime anxiety, and often promotes healthier sleeping patterns and habits. Parents also report feeling a deeper emotional bond with their child.

Cons

For many couples, sleeping in the same bed isn’t a relaxing and loving experience, but rather a disruptive and frustrating one. A light sleeper isn’t going to have a peaceful night with a partner that snores and tosses and turns all night. Differences in temperature, movement, and snoring are all factors of why some couples may not be good sleeping partners. Having a bad nights rest every night is not healthy, and tends to affect both your physical and mental wellbeing.

Co-sleeping with your children has a list of dangerous cons you should speak to your pediatrician about if you are thinking of developing this habit. The safety of your infant or small child could rely on whether it is a good idea or not to sleep in the same bed as them. As for older children, many may become too dependent on sleeping in the same bed as their parents as they get older, which can affect their independence later.

No matter what the research says, sleeping with or without your partner, children, or pets is a personal choice that depends highly on the individual. It is important to get into a sleep system that works best for you. Your health depends on it! No matter if you choose to sleep in the same bed as your partner or not does not mean there is anything wrong with you or your relationship. Sometimes, with a good nights sleep, it can mean having a healthier and happier relationship, and daily life.