Expert says Scandinavian sleep technique can improve your relationship

A 'sleep divorce' - or sleeping in separate beds - might sound like a relationship red flag, but it could be the secret to getting some shut-eye during our warm heatwave nights. Not everyone can afford the luxury of a spare room or fork out for an extra bed, but if you've got the means, opting for a 'bedtime breakup' might just be the thing to save your love life and your sleep.

"The human body has an optimal temperature range, typically around 36.1C to 37.2C, for initiating and maintaining sleep. This range supports the body's natural decline in core temperature, which is an important component of the sleep process," explains Carolina Goncalves, superintendent pharmacist at Pharmica.

"When ambient temperatures rise, the body struggles to dissipate heat effectively, which is necessary for the onset of sleep. During sleep, particularly in the stages of deep and REM sleep, the body's ability to regulate temperature diminishes, making it more challenging to cool down when it's hot.

"This inability to effectively lower core temperature can lead to increased awakenings and a lighter sleep state, as the body repeatedly attempts to cool itself." Tossing, turning, and sweating through the night only adds to the misery and with two people in the same bed, you're doubling the trouble. It seems that sometimes, a little separation can go a long way towards a good night's rest.

"The additional heat provided by another body is definitely not helpful," says Alison Cullen, sleep expert at avogel.co.uk. "Sharing body heat is a lifesaver in very cold conditions, and there's nothing nicer than a warm body to drape your chilly feet over in the colder months. But when it's hot, being close to another heat source just adds to the problem."

With a sleep divorce, this problem's instantly eradicated. It also means you get complete control of how airy and dark the room is, what duvet to use (or not use), and sticking a leg or arm out to cool off won't be an issue for either party. "Sleeping apart may seem like a negative step in a relationship, but if it means better sleep for either or both of the couple, the health benefits are likely to benefit their relationship too," says Cullen. "Feeling rested, restored, less achy, with fewer carb cravings and more energy is a great way to start a new phase in your connection."

In some parts of the world, it's a lot more normal for couples to sleep in separate beds, like Scandinavia. And there might be other reasons for considering it, such as health conditions, having different preferences and routines, and of course, snoring - which is often a fast-track to misery for couples if not addressed.

Goncalves is on board with the idea of a sleep divorce, suggesting it could actually give relationships a boost. "The most substantial benefit of sleeping in separate beds is a potential improvement in sleep quality for both [people], improving their collective cognitive and emotional health, and strengthening their bond as a couple," Goncalves explains.

"It can also help minimise conflicts stemming from changes in mood due to a lack of sleep, potentially leading to greater relationship satisfaction and stability. "Lastly, sleeping in separate beds can provide couples with the opportunity to appreciate the intimacy of sleeping together.

"The physical distance from sleeping in separate beds may enhance longing and desire for one another, contributing to a more passionate and fulfilling relationship, and increasing how meaningful the relationship is for both individuals. This can help foster deeper emotional connections and improve relationship satisfaction."