Strategies for a joyful, sensual relationship experience during the festive season:
Coriging Christmas Carnal Corners:
When the jolly holidays roll in, it's so simple to overlook your sex life in the midst of work parties and family fun times. But don't let it slide off your radar; we've got some advice to help keep your bedroom adventures merry and bright.
It's no secret that Christmas brings a baby boom - there's a spike in birth rates in September, which has led one midwife to plead with the British public to refrain from holiday havoc in the bedroom. So, sure, the holidays are clearly a time for making babies, but they can also pose some obstacles to maintaining a satisfying sexual relationship.
With extended family visits and everyone wanting a piece of the action, it can be tough to find a quiet moment alone to get cozy. Why let the season create a barrier between you and your partner? After all, sex has plenty of benefits - from relieving stress to keeping the calories at bay.
Holidays, Stress, and Sex
The holiday season can put a strain on relationships[1]. A 2008 survey found that relationship breakups peak during the holiday season, and post-Christmas also sees a surge in divorce rates[3]. Don't let that be you! Research shows that an active sex life is a key component of long-term relationship happiness[4]. So, who you gonna call? Your partner!
While sex can't fix serious relationship issues, it certainly contributes to overall satisfaction. In fact, couples who have sex once per week tend to be significantly happier than those who don't[4]. Privacy, however, may be in short supply as we gather with family for the holidays.
Privacy is important to most people, as 75% of us find the thought of being caught in the act unappealing, and around two-thirds are uncomfortable with being overheard[6]. But the health benefits of sex are irrefutable, from improved sleep and increased lifespan to a brainpower boost[2]. So, how about a quickie under the Christmas tree?
Steaming Up the Holidays
If holiday stress levels are skyrocketing, it's important to remember that a little time between the sheets can help take the edge off. One study revealed that stress-related blood pressure drops significantly following sex[7], likely due to the love hormone oxytocin[8]. In another study, oxytocin was able to reduce cortisol levels in response to physical stress[8]. So, if stress is weighing you down, hop in the sack!
Tips for a Sweltering Holiday Season
Here are a few tips to help you keep the fire burning over the holiday season:
1. Make Time for Your Partner
Sometimes, the busy holiday season leads us to forget to show our partners some love. Take some time to connect with your partner and rekindle the flames. A study found that cuddling and watching a romantic movie are highly appealing activities for most people[6]. So, gather some blankets, pop some popcorn, and cuddle up with a holiday classic.
2. Get Creative
If you're lucky enough to have the house to yourself for a bit, make the most of it! A different setting can help add some excitement to an otherwise mundane routine. A study found that 77.4% of people find having sex in another part of the house appealing[6]. If that's not an option, consider booking a night at a hotel or enjoying a couples massage - both are highly rated as appealing by nearly 80% of people[6].
3. Communicate, Communicate, Communicate
Open communication is essential for maintaining a strong sexual relationship. Don't be afraid to talk openly with your partner about your needs, desires, and any issues that may arise during the holiday season. One study found that talking about sex regularly can help maintain sexual desire and satisfaction[5].
So, this holiday season, don't let the chaos of festive gatherings and family visits put a damper on your romance. Take some time to connect with your partner, get creative, and keep the bedroom sizzling. After all, 'tis the season for love!
Enrichment Data:- An active sex life contributes to overall relationship satisfaction[4]- Approximately 80% of people find having sex in a hotel room appealing[6]- Talking about sex regularly can help maintain sexual desire and satisfaction[5]
- Amidst the holiday festivities and extended family visits, it's crucial to prioritize your relationships and not let privacy become a barrier to maintaining a satisfying sexual relationship with your partner.
- Research indicates that an active sex life can alleviate stress, improve sleep quality, and raise lifespan, making it a valuable aspect of overall health-and-wellness and lifestyle.
- Planning creative moments for intimacy, such as shifting your usual routine or exploring different locations like a hotel or a quiet corner at home, can help spark sexual interest and keep relationships vibrant during the holiday season.
