SLEEPING with a partner comes with its up and downs.
But several studies suggest that sharing a bed with a loved one actually increases your chances of a good night sleep.
Couples six favourite sleep positions and exactly how they impact your health
Although those who have to cozy up with duvet hoggers and relentless snorers might disagree.
A recent study by University of Arizona found those who slept with a partner nodded off more quickly, and were less likely to experience insomnia or general fatigue.
They also had less risk of sleep apnoea, a condition where breathing is interrupted leading to gasping for air in the night.
So, now that science is telling us to share a bed – how is the best way to do it?
Alison Jones, sleep expert from Sealy, provides intel on couples favoured shared sleep positions and exactly how they impact your health.
1. Hugging from behind
Otherwise known as the ‘spooning position’, this classic sleep arrangement involves both partners sleeping on their sides, with one hugging the other from behind with their arms wrapped around them.
According to Alison sleeping on your side is “moderately supportive and good for breathing as it doesn’t obstruct your airways as much as others – meaning great news for snorers”.
“Whilst great in the winter months, some can find this position a little warm in hotter climates due to the amount of physical contact,” she added.
To make this position ever better for your body try placing a firm pillow between your knees.
“This will help with overall posture over time,” she said.
2. Back-to-back
Also known as ‘moon landing’ the back-to-back position also involves sleeping on your side, often with your backs touching.
“Overall, this position is a good way to support your body, relieving pressure on your internal organs and muscles,” the sleep expert said.
“This is a relaxing position to fall asleep in, it prioritises sleep over affection and allows each individual to have their own space to adjust and re-position as they wish throughout the night.”
3. Sweetheart cradle
This position involves one person sleeping on their side with their head on their partner’s chest.
“This provides intimate contact, which some say is good for the release of oxytocin (love hormone),” she explained.
However, this isn’t the best position for spinal alignment.
“Each person has pressure applied to their either their body or neck,” Alison explained.
“Whilst it may feel cosy at first, it is not advised to hold the sweetheart cradle for long, as it will result in neck pain or numbness in your arms and over time, may cause more permanent back problems,” she said.
4. Face to face
“Those who sleep face to face whilst touching are typically incredibly close and not phased by intimate contact,” Alison said.
The position’s benefits are closely aligned with the back-to-back position.
“Face to face provides each person has enough space to move their limbs freely if they need to through the night,” the expert said.
5. Intertwined
This position involves partners lying with their heads at the same level, facing each other, with legs overlapping each other in a locked embrace.
It’s a favourable cuddle position but isn’t ideal for sleeping, Alison explained.
“Whilst the top half of the body may feel supported, having legs raised or locked into a set position, may mean the spine isn’t in a neutral position – meaning you’re less likely to feel fully rested when you wake up,” she said.
5. Starfish
The explanation is in the name. Starfishing is when one person spreads out fully, resembling a starfish.
When alone, this is a great solution for sleep quality and impact on the body.
“Giving you the space your body needs to truly relax resulting in waking up feeling rested and refreshed,” Alison said.
“However, when star-fished alongside someone else, you may not have enough free space to move your arms and legs freely throughout the night,” she added.
“Sleeping on your back is great for back pain and is considered one of the best ways to support your spine, helping to alleviate aches, pains and even wrinkles, as face to pillow contact is minimal.
“If you or your partner has a tendency to snore, this might be one to avoid, as your arms tend to be spread wide and airways are open,” she said.