The weeks around Christmas an New Year can be among the most difficult times for relationships.  That’s why solicitors make special discount offers for divorce advice at this time of year.

There are lots of reasons why your relationship could come under pressure.  It could be seasonal depression, the financial pressures of Christmas, or an excess of alcohol at parties.  Some people decide that they want to make a new start in the New Year and that includes their relationships.

If you are in an abusive relationship then you need to take action. But if your relationship is just at a low ebb, stop, think again and consider taking some relationship advice or therapy.  How many people regret leaving a relationship which just needed a bit of time and effort?

Here are a few practical steps you could take to set your relationship back on the right path:

• Set some time aside to spend alone with your partner with no other pressures.  Do something you both enjoy.
• Hug your partner every day even if you are busy.  A hug releases the hormone oxytocin into your blood that bonds you with your partner.
• Exercise together to boost your health and well-being.  Going for a walk together around lunch time will get you back in touch with nature and expose you to mid-day sunlight.
• Have a laugh and a smile with your partner to release the positive hormones that make us feel good.
• Be patient with each other.  Couples who are kind to each other have less coronary artery calcification and healthier hearts
• Most importantly, keep talking and listening to each other.  Don’t just wait for your turn to speak, really listen to what your partner is saying.

Christmas can be a time for creating wonderful new memories that you can share and look back on in future years.  Have a great time.