THE key to a happy relationship with your family and loved ones can be found on the sofa according to new research. 

In a survey of more than 1,000 people it was revealed that Scots spend 48 days a year on the sofa, with nine out of ten choosing it as their favourite place for family time. 

The research, conducted by ScS, one of the UK’s leading furniture and flooring specialists, found the majority of Scots spend at least an hour a day relaxing on the sofa, with more than half (55 per cent) using that time to catch up with family and friends.

Glasgow Times:

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Scots are most likely to spend time on the sofa with their partners too, with over two thirds saying they are more likely to couple up on the couch as part of their sofa-time.

Relationship expert, Caroline Brealey explains the positive impact sofa-time is having on couples and their relationships: “In a relationship it's the little things that count. Big romantic gestures are lovely, but the day to day moments you share are what keep you connected and the relationship healthy. Cuddling provides comfort and security and after a long day at work spending some quality time cuddled up on the sofa together being close and having physical contact can be hugely intimate and romantic.

“Sofa time is also important for people with children as it brings together the family. Time spent with your children on the sofa, whether reading, watching a movie or chatting, is essential for maintaining family ties and creating common interests.”

Glasgow Times:

Photo credit: Pixabay

The poll also revealed the nation’s sofa-time habits with more than half admitting they have a favourite spot to sit on and get annoyed if another family member ‘steals’ it.

Despite common belief, it’s actually older people who spend the least amount of time on the sofa each day, with only 17 per cent of those aged 65 and over spending less than an hour a day on it.

Simon Nicholson, Furniture Buying Director at ScS, said: “With our lives seeming to get busier and busier, fitting in time with the family and our partners can be a struggle, so it’s great to see so many are putting their sofas to really great use as part of this precious family time."