How to Keep Sexual & Emotional Intimacy Alive When You Spend the Holidays Apart

Christmas is all about reunions, shared moments, and family time. But for many couples, it’s also a time of temporary separation. Not because the relationship is struggling, but because travel plans, family commitments, busy schedules, and circumstances outside our control mean each partner spends the holidays in a different place.

And while emotional closeness doesn’t disappear with distance, maintaining intimacy as a couple can feel more challenging. Not just physically, but in everything that supports a healthy relationship: emotional connection, closeness, affection, and intimate wellbeing. Intimacy is also about feeling emotionally safe, having mental space for your partner, and continuing to nurture the bond—even when you’re apart.

That’s why this guide focuses on how to maintain sexual and emotional intimacy during the holidays, even when distance is part of the equation.

Accept That Distance Has an Impact (and That It’s Normal)

During the holidays, it’s common to feel a slight dip in connection. You’re surrounded by family, juggling different routines, long meals, social commitments, and very little privacy. All of this makes it harder to show up emotionally or physically in the same way you might during the rest of the year.

The key isn’t to worry, but to acknowledge that temporary distance affects connection. Letting go of pressure allows things to feel more natural again. And when expectations soften, something important shows up: calm, understanding, and emotional flexibility.

Talk About Expectations Before You’re Apart

A simple conversation before the holidays can prevent a lot of misunderstandings. It’s not about scheduling every interaction, but about getting on the same page.

You might talk about:

• How much contact feels right during these days
  
  

• Whether you prefer short check-ins or longer calls
  
  

• Messages, voice notes, photos, or all of the above
  
  

• Days when you may need space, without guilt or pressure
  
  

Intimacy at a distance works best when both partners know what to expect and feel free to engage without obligation.

Focus on Emotional Intimacy When Physical Intimacy Isn’t Possible

When physical closeness isn’t an option, emotional intimacy becomes even more meaningful. Small gestures often matter more than grand ones:

• A message about something that reminded you of your partner
  
  

• A photo linked to a shared memory
  
  

• A playful or heartfelt voice note
  
  

• A short conversation before going to sleep
  
  

It’s not about frequency, but about the feeling of being emotionally present without overwhelming each other.

Create Shared Rituals, Even From a Distance

Routines don’t have to feel monotonous. When chosen intentionally, they can help maintain a sense of “us,” even when you’re apart.

Some simple ideas:

• Watching the same series and talking about it afterward
  
  

• Sending a message every morning or before bed
  
  

• Setting aside a specific day for a short video call
  
  

• Sharing a playlist that accompanies you through the holidays
  
  

These rituals act as emotional anchors, reinforcing continuity and closeness despite the distance.

Take Care of Your Intimate Wellbeing When You’re On Your Own

When your partner isn’t physically present, many men use this time to reconnect with themselves. This isn’t a replacement—it’s a way of strengthening the relationship when you reunite.

You might focus on:

• Slowing down and relaxing
  
  

• Breathing exercises to release tension
  
  

• Exploring sensations without rushing
  
  

• Letting go of holiday-related stress
  
  

• Improving body awareness and control, especially if performance anxiety tends to increase during this time
  
  

Mindful self-exploration, without excess stimulation or urgency, helps support emotional balance and male intimate wellbeing.

Anticipating the Reunion Is Also Intimacy

Anticipation builds connection. Talking about what you’ll do when you see each other again—a relaxed meal, a quiet evening, uninterrupted time together—helps maintain closeness even while you’re apart.

It doesn’t have to be elaborate. Simply imagining a moment you’re excited to share can be enough.

Why not prepare the reunion as something special?

Creating a calm, welcoming atmosphere can help you reconnect both emotionally and physically. Warm lighting, soft music, and a relaxing massage with scented oils can set the tone for a meaningful experience.

MYHIXEL’s intimate care product range can be the perfect complement to help bring that sense of connection and confidence back.

Skin Care: Elasticity and Sensitivity

Anatomy also affects how your skin behaves:

• Larger head: higher irritation risk

• Pronounced curve: concentrated tension at one point

• Mobile foreskin: needs regular hydration

Products designed for men's intimate care help improve elasticity and smoothness without irritation. Look for options with gentle ingredients and no harsh fragrances.