For some people, sleeping with a partner feels warm, comforting, and safe. For others, the experience is less favorable, to say the least.

According to a Better Sleep Council survey, twenty-six percent say they sleep better alone. If you find it difficult to get a full night's sleep sharing covers, listen to snoring, or just have another body in their space, let us help you with a few simple tips and improvements on your go-to couplesleeping positions. Some of these tips might not be right for you; feel free to choose the ones that work best for you and your partner.

Decide What's Together and What's Separate

Together

Cuddle Before, Not During, Sleep

Physical touch releases oxytocin, the so-called love hormone. Research has found that this hormone makes people more emotionally open and empathetic. Couples can strengthen their relationships through touch and its flood of oxytocin. Cuddling is important for this reason, but it becomes problematic if you can't sleep in contact with your partner. Try cuddling each night as you get sleepy in bed. Then, move apart to sleep.

Share Pre-Sleep Rituals

Maybe you both struggle to sleep and could benefit from better sleep hygiene or habits. A step in the right direction could be to try a guided audio track that helps you drift to sleep.

You can start with meditations by BetterSleep, these guided exercises were created specifically to help you relax and fall asleep. Using strategies like these preps you both for a better night's sleep. Consider it a couple's project, something you can do together and strengthen your bond.

Separate

Use Separate Covers

If one of you hogs the blankets, getting separate covers provides a simple solution. Share a sheet but use two blankets, bedspreads, or duvets to compartmentalize sleep a little more. Your partner can wrap up his or her body like a cocoon if desired. You might find that you're more comfortable under your covers.

Go to Bed at Different Times if Necessary

Some people need more time to fall asleep than others. If your partner's tossing and turning are wrecking your sleep, different bedtimes may be a solution. According to experts, 30 minutes is the average time for someone to drift off to sleep. Taking longer to fall asleep could mean you are fighting your internal clock. Try a later bedtime, being quiet and careful to avoid disrupting your sleeping partner.

Take Care of Any Medical Issues

A partner who snores can destroy sleep for the other. If either of you snores, it will improve your relationship and sleep to resolve the issue. See your doctor for a diagnosis. You could have sleep apnea, or you may need a simple procedure to correct a breathing problem. Several, mostly minor, health issues can cause snoring, so check it out.

Everyone should enjoy sleeping with their partner. If you can't, don't give up hope. Some small changes can transform your nights, improve your sleep quality and bring you closer!

What are the Best Sleeping Positions for Couples?

When sharing a bed with a partner, there are a few things to consider. First, what is the most comfortable sleeping position for both people? Second, what are the best positions for couples who want to minimize snoring or body aches? And finally, how can couples maintain intimacy while still getting a good night's sleep?

There is no single answer to these questions, as every couple will have their preferences.

Sleeping side by side, for example, allows each person to keep their own space and move around without disturbing the other person. If one partner is a light sleeper, this can be an ideal arrangement. On the other hand, if both partners are heavy snorers, sleeping in separate beds may be the best solution.

Another important consideration is maintaining intimacy while still getting a good night's sleep. This can be tricky, but finding a balance that works for both partners is important. One option is to set aside time for cuddling or sex before bedtime. You can enjoy each other's company without jeopardizing your sleep.

Whichever sleep position you choose, make sure you are both comfortable so you can get a good night's sleep. Make sure you communicate with your partner about your needs and expectations to get a good night's sleep. With a little effort, you should be able to find the best sleeping position for your relationship.

Back-to-Back or Face-to-Face

Try Different Couples' Sleeping Positions.

Experiment with positioning to get a better night's sleep. Spooning may be the quintessential cuddling position, but it may not offer you the best sleep. Try different sleep positions: back-to-back, facing each other. Determine which works best for each of you as individuals and for both of you together.

Back-to-Back, Touching

Sleeping back-to-back is a relatively common sleep position, especially among couples who have been together for less than a year. Also known as back kissing, this position involves both partners remaining in contact with each other while they sleep.

Although it may be seen as a sign of closeness, it can be quite uncomfortable, especially if you're not used to it. One of the main drawbacks of back-to-back sleeping is that it can put a lot of strain on your back and neck. If you're not used to sleeping in this sleep position, you may wake up with a sore back or neck.

Additionally, side sleepers may find that their hips and shoulders start to ache after a while. Overall, back-to-back sleeping is more comfortable for some more than others. If you decide to try it, listen to your body and give yourself time to adjust to the new position.

Back-to-Back, Not Touching

One popular belief is that back-to-back sleeping indicates independence and connection within the relationship. This may be true for some couples, but if you've suddenly switched from a more intimate position to this, it could be a sign that something is wrong.

The liberty lovers' posture can also be good for the body as it relieves pressure on internal organs; however, it may also cause lower back and shoulders problems. If you're concerned about the meaning of this position, talk to your partner about it. They may be able to shed some light on the situation.

Face-to-Face, Touching

This is the classic sleeping position for couples, and it's often seen as the most intimate. Finding yourself in this position may signify that you're feeling close to your partner and comfortable with them.

However, it's important to remember that this position can also be uncomfortable, especially if you're not used to it. One of the main drawbacks of sleeping face-to-face is that breathing can be difficult. If you're not used to it, you may wake up with a sore back or neck. Additionally, side sleepers may find that their hips and shoulders start to ache after a while.

Overall, face-to-face sleeping is more comfortable for some people than for others. If you decide to try it, listen to your body and give yourself time to adjust to the new position.

Face-to-Face, Not Touching

This is a less common sleeping position, but it can be seen as a sign of independence and connection within the relationship. This may be true for some couples, but if you've suddenly switched from an incredibly intimate position like spooning to this, it could be a sign that something is wrong.

The liberty lovers' posture can also be good for the body as it relieves pressure on internal organs; however, it may also cause lower back and shoulders problems. If you're concerned about the meaning of this position, talk to your partner about it. They may be able to shed some light on the situation.

Spooning

Spooning is a popular sleeping position for couples that involves only one person wrapping their body around the other in a sideways hug. According to a survey by hotel company Travelodge, only a fifth of couples sleeps in this position. Many people find spooning to be a comfort because of the close proximity to their partner.

Besides, it is a sexual position where one person has the other one's back. The "big spoon" is typically the partner wrapped around the other and is often seen as the protector due to their body creating a safe environment.

While spooning is mostly seen as a sleep position for couples who want to stay sexually connected, it can also be platonic.

Some parents may even spoon their children if they have a bad dream to offer them comfort and reassurance. Whether spooning your romantic partner or your child, this position can create a sense of safety and security.

Loose Spoon

People who have been in a relationship for some time may graduate to the loose spoon. Essentially, it's a less restricted version of the original spoon position. The couple may sleep facing the same direction, but there's more space between them, which can be nice for naturally warm people or those who tend to toss and turn during the night.

You may think this sleep position reveals a relationship problem, but experts say otherwise. "It still provides that closeness and reassurance," Dr. Gall says. "But there's more space between you, allowing you to breathe and relax into a comfortable position for better quality sleep."

So if you find yourself in the loose spoon position, don't worry – it doesn't mean your relationship is on the rocks. It could just be a sign that you and your partner are comfortable with each other.

Chase Spooning

One variation of the classic spooning position is known as the chasing spoon. In this position, one person has moved to one side of the bed while the other appears to be chasing them. Usually, the log or fetal position is the posture of the person being chased while the "chaser" sleeps in a yearner position.

This sleep position can have a couple of different meanings. It may indicate that one person wants to be pursued by their partner, or it may show that the person needs some personal space from their partner. Either way, chase spooning comes with all the same ups and downs as regular spooning. The only potential downside is that you may fall off the bed if you're not careful. But as long as you're aware of the risks, chase spooning can be a fun and intimate sleeping position to spice up your bedroom routine.

Cradle Sleeping Position

The cradle position is also known as nuzzling. In this position, one person sleeps flat on their back while the other rests their head on the first partner's chest with arms wrapped around the other, creating a sense of security and intimacy. Alternatively, one partner sleeps resting on the other's shoulder.

This position also allows both partners to breathe easily and prevents one partner from rolling on top of the other. Additionally, the cradle position can help reduce snoring and minimize tossing and turning at night.

As a result, it is no wonder that so many couples find themselves gravitating towards the cradle position when trying to get a good night's sleep.

Unraveling Knot

The tangle is one of the most popular couples' sleeping positions, with 30% of people surveyed saying they sleep this way. The tangle involves both partners facing each other and entwining their legs and arms.

This sleep position is often seen as the most intimate, requiring a certain level of trust and comfort. However, it can also be uncomfortable, as it can be difficult to move or change positions. The tangle can also lead to night sweats and overheating as both partners are nearby.

For these reasons, some couples choose to unravel the tangle and sleep in the spooning position. In this position, one partner spoon-feeds the other from behind, facing the same direction. This position is more intimate than sleeping apart, but it also allows for more independence, as each partner can move freely without disturbing the other.

This position is often seen as ideal for couples who have been together for a long time, as it requires a high level of trust and communication.

Loose Cuddles

Paper Dolls

The paper doll's position is when both partners lie on their backs next to each other, either holding hands or gently touching each other's arms or legs. Paper doll is a super relaxed sleeping position, which gives people intimacy and the chance to get a decent night's sleep.

Although it may help those who deal with back pain and circulation problems, be aware that one or both of you may end up snoring, turning a peaceful night into an irritating one. And if your back hurts more in this straight posture, put pillows under your knees to elongate the spine, says Dr. Gall.

Tetherball Position

While many couples prefer to sleep near one another, there are some who find this arrangement to be less than ideal. If you and your partner fall into this latter category but still desire some physical contact during the night, you may want to try tetherball.

In this sleep position, one partner sleeps in a fetal position while the other rests on their back with a hand placed on their partner's hip. The simple act of touching can profoundly impact a relationship, as 94% of couples reported touching.

If you're looking for a way to add more intimacy to your relationship, give tetherball a try.

Leg Hug Position

The leg hug position is when both partners face each other with their legs intertwined. This position allows for a great deal of intimacy and can be comforting for couples dealing with stress or anxiety.

Additionally, the leg hug can help to reduce snoring and minimize tossing and turning during the night. As a result, it is often seen as the ideal position for couples trying to get a good night's sleep.

However, be aware that the leg hug position can also lead to back pain, so it is important to find a comfortable way to position your legs and hips. You may also want to use pillows to support your back and minimize discomfort.

Sleep Positions Without Touching

Try Sleeping Close but Without Touching.

In a study of couple sleeping positions, researchers found that among those who slept about an inch from each other, 86 percent reported relationship satisfaction. Only 66 percent of couples who slept 30 inches apart were happy in their relationships. If being in actual physical contact with someone disturbs your sleep, try staying close without actually touching.

Fetal Position

If you sleep in the fetal position, you're not alone. In fact, according to a recent survey, almost half of all Americans sleep in this position. And many people say it's the most comfortable way to spend the night. However, there are a few things to keep in mind if you sleep in the fetal position.

First, curling up too tightly can strain your lower back and put pressure on your abdomen. To alleviate these effects, try straightening your body out a little. Putting a pillow in between your knees may also help your hips.

Additionally, be aware that sleeping in this position may cause wrinkles on your face over time. But overall, sleeping in the fetal position is a safe and comfortable way to get a good night's sleep.

Soldier

The soldier position is not thought to be the most comfortable sleeping position, but it is effective in preventing snoring. About 11 percent of Americans sleep in this position, according to a nationwide survey from the Better Sleep Council.

In this position, you sleep on your back with your arms positioned straight down next to your body. Sleeping in this position will also prevent you from moving around during the night and disturbing your partner.

If you are looking for a way to get a good night's sleep without disturbing your partner, the soldier position is the way to go.

Sleep Positions to Avoid

Stomach Snooze

Sleeping on your stomach is often considered the worst sleep position for your health, and doing so with your partner doesn't make it less. This sleeping position can cause back pain, neck pain, and even headaches.

Additionally, it can also lead to indigestion and heartburn.

Sleeping on your stomach also puts a lot of pressure on your internal organs, which can be very uncomfortable. If you must sleep on your stomach, it is important to use a pillow that elevates your head and shoulders to keep your spine in a neutral position. Additionally, you may want to consider sleeping on a firm mattress to prevent back pain.

Cliffhanger Position

The cliffhanger sleeping position is when both people lie on either side of the bed, far away from each other. This position can be seen as a sign of a real problem in the relationship, but it can also signify that both people are happy with themselves and their partner.

A 2014 survey of over 1,000 people found that the further apart couples slept, the worse their relationship. However, if not carried out aggressively, the cliffhanger sleeping position can signify that both people are content in their relationship.

Bottom Line

If you and your partner struggle to get a good night's sleep, try implementing some tips we've provided. Not only will you be better rested, but you may also strengthen your relationship. It's essential to create an environment conducive to relaxation. Do any of these techniques work for you when sleeping with your partner? What other methods do you use to get quality sleep? Let us know on our social media pages!