Last night, my partner left for a three-day work trip. While I dislike his absence because I genuinely miss him—and yes, I do sleep with the bathroom light on as a comfort—I must admit that there are some perks to solo living. With him away, I have less laundry to do, fewer grocery runs, and the TV remote is all mine. This means I can finally indulge in my guilty pleasure of watching reality shows without anyone questioning my choices, or asking, “Is that Bethenny again?”
It seems I’m not alone in appreciating a bit of space. Research from Northwestern’s Family Institute indicates that couples who spend significant time apart, often due to work commitments, report higher overall happiness and improved health compared to those who cohabitate full-time. As per findings discussed in the Boston Globe, these long-distance couples tend to experience lower levels of depression, reduced fatigue, healthier eating habits, and increased physical activity.
Understanding the Benefits
So what’s the reason behind this? According to Steve Anderson, a co-author of the study and research fellow at Northwestern, couples in long-distance relationships often enjoy a better balance in their lives. They gain the freedom to work out, socialize, and rest without interruption—all vital for mental and physical health. Perhaps I should consider reclaiming my own space tonight by encouraging the kids to sleep elsewhere, hitting the treadmill, and planning some social outings.
The Challenges of Long-Distance Relationships
However, it’s important to note that while individuals in long-distance relationships may thrive independently, they often encounter heightened personal stress and experience increased conflicts with their partners. As reported by the Globe, these couples engage in sexual activities less frequently and tend to score lower on “relationship maintenance” metrics, which include expressions of love, open discussions about feelings, and shared household responsibilities.
Steve Anderson highlighted that these challenges can contribute to greater stress levels for partners in long-distance marriages. He expressed a desire to conduct further research to identify strategies to help couples navigate these difficulties. As long as the research doesn’t interfere with my favorite shows, I’m on board.
Further Reading
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Conclusion
In summary, while living apart from your spouse may offer certain personal advantages like improved health and happiness, it also comes with challenges that could lead to increased stress and conflict. Understanding these dynamics can help couples make informed decisions about their relationships and personal well-being.