Navigating Relationship Strain and Sexual Health During the Holiday Season

The holiday season is often seen as a time for celebration, joy, and family togetherness. However, for many, it can also be a period of increased stress, family tensions, and emotional strain. As a relationship counselor and clinical sexologist based in Singapore, I often see the impact of these external pressures on sexual health and intimacy. The stress of the holiday season can reduce libido, while conflicts with family members may create emotional barriers between partners. However, with the right tools and strategies, couples can nurture their relationship and intimacy during this challenging time. 

How Holiday Stress Affects Sexual Health 

Increased stress levels during the holiday season can take a toll on both physical and emotional health. One of the most immediate effects of stress is its impact on libido. When individuals are stressed, the body releases cortisol, the “stress hormone,” which can suppress the production of sex hormones like testosterone. As a result, many people experience a reduced desire for intimacy during this time. 

However, it’s important to note that sexual health is not solely determined by libido. Emotional intimacy plays a significant role in maintaining a connection between partners. When stress accumulates, it can be harder to feel emotionally present, which may hinder the connection necessary for a fulfilling sexual relationship. 

Setting Healthy Boundaries During the Holidays 

Setting healthy boundaries is one of the most effective ways to protect both your emotional and sexual health during the holidays. One of the biggest sources of stress during this time is often extended family interactions. Spending too much time with relatives or in close quarters can lead to feelings of burnout, resentment, and frustration. 

To combat this, consider renting a nearby apartment or booking a hotel room for a bit of distance. Having a physical space to retreat to when needed can provide you and your partner with much-needed relief. Additionally, setting time boundaries is equally important. Make sure to carve out hours or entire days to focus on yourself or each other. For example, designate specific days for relaxation or intimacy, making it easier to reconnect when outside pressures are high. 

Nurturing Intimacy: Communication and Non-Verbal Cues 

In times of stress, effective communication becomes even more critical. However, communication isn’t limited to just verbal exchange—it also involves non-verbal cues. Non-verbal communication can be a powerful tool for maintaining emotional connection and sexual health. 

In the context of a busy or tense holiday season, pre-established non-verbal cues can help partners communicate needs without feeling overwhelmed or misunderstood. For instance, setting up a “safe word” or code phrase can signal to your partner that you need a break from a conversation or a family gathering. Non-verbal cues like a touch, a look, or pulling aside can also communicate the need for support or time alone without interrupting the flow of the moment. 

Other strategies to nurture intimacy include discussing boundaries around physical affection and emotional connection. Safe words, hand gestures, or gentle taps can help partners navigate through moments of heightened stress or discomfort. Creating these systems ensures both partners can manage their individual needs while also supporting each other emotionally and physically. 

Managing Grief and Emotional Challenges During the Holidays 

The holidays can also bring feelings of grief, loss, and emotional hardship. These emotions can add another layer of difficulty to an already stressful period. If you are grieving a loss or dealing with significant life changes, it’s crucial to be gentle with yourself and your partner. 

Grief often creates emotional distance, which may feel like a barrier to intimacy. However, physical closeness—whether through holding hands, cuddling, or other affectionate gestures—can provide comfort during this difficult time. It’s important to discuss how you’re feeling with your partner and work together to provide support and empathy. Being open about your emotional state can help maintain intimacy despite the sadness. 

While grief should be honored, couples should also prioritize small moments of connection, affection, and shared understanding. It’s vital not to neglect your relationship while you’re grieving. Check-in with each other, and be proactive about emotional support. Simple acts of love and care can strengthen your bond and help you cope together. 

Conclusion 

While the holiday season can indeed create tension in relationships, it doesn’t have to damage intimacy or sexual health. By setting healthy boundaries, using effective communication techniques (both verbal and non-verbal), and supporting each other through emotional challenges, couples can maintain a strong connection during this demanding time. Focus on the emotional and physical intimacy that nourishes the relationship, and prioritize self-care and mutual respect. The holidays may bring stress, but they also provide an opportunity to reconnect and nurture your relationship, building resilience for the months ahead. 

About Dr. Martha Tara Lee 

Dr. Martha Tara Lee has been a passionate advocate for positive sexuality since 2007. With a Doctorate in Human Sexuality and a Masters in Counseling, she launched Eros Coaching in 2009 to help individuals and couples lead self-actualized and pleasurable lives. Her expertise includes working with couples who have unconsummated marriages, individuals with sexual inhibitions and discrepancies in sexual desire, men with erection and ejaculation concerns, and members of the LGBTQIA+ and kink communities. Dr. Lee welcomes all sexual orientations and is available for online and face-to-face consultations. Martha speaks English and Mandarin. 

She is the only certified sexuality educator by the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT) in the region (as of 2011) and is also an AASECT certified sexuality educator supervisor (as of 2018). She strives to provide fun, educational, and sex-positive events and is often cited in the media including Huffington Post, Newsweek, South China Morning Post, and more. She is the appointed Resident Sexologist for Singapore Cancer Society, Of Noah.sg, OfZoey.sg, and Virtus Fertility Centre. She is the host of radio show Eros Evolution for OMTimes Radio. In recognition of her work, she was named one of ‘Top 50 Inspiring Women under 40’ by Her World in July 2010, and one of ‘Top 100 Inspiring Women’ by CozyCot in March 2011. She is the author of Love, Sex and Everything In-Between (2013),  Orgasmic Yoga: Masturbation, Meditation and Everything In-Between (2015), From Princess to Queen: Heartbreaks, Heartgasms and Everything In-Between (2017), and {Un}Inhihibited (2019). 

The preceding article was solely written by the author named above. Any views and opinions expressed are not necessarily shared by GoodTherapy.org. Questions or concerns about the preceding article can be directed to the author or posted as a comment below.