With the in-laws coming to stay for a week, two kids counting on Santa’s best under the tree, a work party and a school play and a neighborhood cookie bake-off””who has time for sex?! The holidays are a busy time, with pressures and deadlines that can push usual priorities””like intimacy with your partner””to the back burner.
Relationship experts recommend several actions to help maintain a healthy sex life despite the stress of the holidays.
- Plan time together. The month of December is filled with activities and obligations that make it easy to forget you’re not seeing much of your partner. Before things get hectic, sit down and schedule a few “dates.” De-stressing together will put you both in a better mood and can lead to increased intimacy.
- Take Care of Yourself. It’s easy to neglect your health during the holidays: eating too much, drinking too much, abandoning exercise routines. When you don’t feel well physically, you’re likely to be less comfortable being intimate with your partner. Stay on top of your weight, don’t overdo it partying, and you’ll feel, look and be able to give your best.
- Exercise. Exercise is recognized as one of the best ways to naturally boost libido. It releases feel-good chemicals called endorphins which boost mood, promote relaxation and may increase your desire for sex and intimacy. It also enhances blood flow, which can enhance erection quality for men.
- Be Spontaneous. Get a babysitter for the night to surprise your spouse with some one-on-one time. Wake him or her up with a massage. Trying something different is fun and exciting and will show your partner you’re interested in keeping the passion alive.