Have Yourself a Healthy Relationship this Christmas

Holidays are a difficult time for many couples. Everyone is challenged by demands on their time, but relationship expectations make demands, too. We expect our partners to be thoughtful, romantic, and present during a season where they may be the most scattered with chores and obligations.

Give your partner the gift of cutting them a bit of slack. We are all only human and cannot always please everyone, including those we love the most.

On the other hand, if you are the one who is distracted, then give your partner the gift of your attention. This is the person you chose to be with for holidays. Let your partner know they really mean something to you by putting down the wrapping paper, cookie recipes, or gift list and taking them out for a special holiday night on the town, a look at neighborhood lights, or out dancing.

Just because there are obstacles to sweetness over the holidays doesn't mean you shouldn't try. It's okay to say no to some demands; you want to start out the new year feeling good about your relationship, not disconnected.

Staying sexually active over the holidays will keep you feeling close as well. Look in your calendar for times when you can take some time out for intimacy. Don't feel guilty that you didn't put out the holiday dish towels or attend that office white elephant exchange. Snuggle under the covers and let it snow! Or, in the case of Southern California, Arctic rain!