You may enjoy coming home and relaxing in your living room with your family, but did you know that “sofa-time” is vital for getting along with others in your home and connecting with them?

Defined as “the intentional practice of relaxing on the couch with loved ones,” sofa-time  can nurture healthy relationships with family and friends. One study found that people in Scotland spent at least an hour a day relaxing on the sofa, with more than half (55 per cent) using that time on the couch to catch up with family and friends.

And all that time together was very worthwhile, said the researchers. They found that activities like engaging in low-stakes conversation, or watching shows or movies together reduces cortisol, builds daily relationship rituals, and strengthens familial bonds.

Playing games together, reading books, listening to music and talking together on the couch can build togetherness. These predictable, repetitive, meaningful interactions – including those on your sofa – can help family members feel emotionally seen, safe, and valued. Experts say that these small rituals build an “emotional bank account,” and create shared meaning, which strengthens trust and resilience. Who knew “sofa time” could do so much?!

Set couches and seating to face each other or form conversation pods. When choosing a sofa, ask if the polyurethane foam inside is  CertiPUR-US® certified, so you can have peace of mind. Avoid chemicals of concern and improve indoor air quality by choosing a couch made with CertiPUR-US® certified foam, which meets strict standards for content and emissions. Check the CertiPUR-US® app or  directory to ensure the sofa you are considering is made with CertiPUR-US® certified foam.

Turning up the cozy can enhance sofa time. Layered textures, such as throw pillows or textured wall treatments, can make a space feel just right for gathering! Soft, adjustable lighting can create different moods. Calming and warm colors are soothing, and natural materials and plants amp up the biophilic health of your living room or family room. Fuzzy throws, soft pillows or a thick rug can help create an atmosphere that draws people in for sofa time.