5 Ways To Really Connect With Your Partner During Busy Holiday Seasons

The winter season is the perfect time of year to take advantage of wintertime bonding opportunities. As the holidays often bring a long line of obligations and stressors, it can be tempting to put your own relationship needs at the bottom of the list. Yet when we carve out time to mindfully foster partnership connection, we're feeding the very relationship that is with us all year long.

Deep listening is one of the best gifts we can give to our partners. In the early stages of a relationship, it's common to listen intently as you get to know a new partner. Yet, as the relationship ages, it can be tempting to turn off mindful listening in favor of multitasking, interrupting, or being uninterested.

Action item: Make time and space for mindful listening. Set aside all other tasks, look your partner in the eyes, and listen respectfully, deeply, and quietly. (If you're not sure what to talk about, see No. 2 on this list.)

Just like deep listening, interest in a partner's life can fade once the limerence stage passes and the relationship "gets real." Although some might maintain that they "know all there is to know" about a partner, that's just a rationalization. No matter how static a person's life might appear, we all change at least a bit every day. True, some change a bit more than others depending on personality and environment, but there's always something new to learn about your partner.

We are wired to desire connection. No matter how young or old we are, we benefit from being touched in loving, respectful ways. However, when life gets busy, it can be easy to forget the importance of pausing to give or receive a hug, hold hands, or connect with a soulful kiss. Fortunately, the colder months give us the perfect opportunity to snuggle by the fire, cozy up in bed, or enjoy the warmth of a bubble bath for two.

When life gets a bit stressful—and we all know the holidays can definitely bring their share of stress—it's tempting to notice what a partner is doing "wrong" rather than all the things your partner does well.

But couples who are appreciative of each other tend to be the happiest, so don't underestimate the power of being grateful for your partner. In fact, one of the greatest gifts you can offer is your heartfelt appreciation. Whether you focus on your partner's kindness, compassion, playfulness, work ethic, or a thousand other traits, remember that daily gratitude will boost the health of your relationship and your partner's sense of being valued.

The relationship-boosting power of laughter, fun, and play is tremendous! When a playful mindset is at work, you'll find that fun is awaiting you around every corner. Even mundane tasks become a delight when you and your partner embrace the connective power of play.