Spending quality time with extended family can be something that challenges you more than just during the holidays.  From family trips and helping in-laws move to living under the same roof for a period of time, nothing will test your relationship with your significant other more than family love.  To keep you and your other half somewhat sane, here are a few ways to minimize the freak outs and keep your relationship healthy.

 

Create your space

Have a place to escape to, somewhere you can be alone and regain sanity.  Having your own personal space will give you a place to run off to if things get too intense or you just need 5 minutes to regroup.  You can also create alone time by taking a nice relaxing bath or practicing some meditation and breathing in a quiet place.

Be upfront of trip expectations or plans

Especially on a family trip, make sure to carve out some time for just the two of you away from the chaos.  It’s best to be upfront and explain that while you are so excited to make memories and share the vacation with everyone, you and your other will be having a date night or a sightseeing adventure together.

High stress/low stress

Something so wonderful about being a part of a family is how close and involved everyone can be.  The flipside to this is everyone is close and involved and can sometimes lead to stress and unsolicited advice.  Make yourself a stress-free kit.  You can use this kit in conjunction with your escape space and jam pack it with things that bring calm and relaxation.  Lavender sprays, peppermint oil, a favorite candy, a beanbag to throw, anything that you can anticipate needing to regain the path of less stress.

 

Laugh about it

You and your special someone have committed to see each other through the ups and downs, but being around family can be one of the easiest ways to try your patience.  Remembering that this too shall pass will get you in the right mindset.  The crazy will not last forever and you both need to embrace the moment.  Find the little things that make it funny and just have a good laugh.  Create a code word that just you two know when something is aggravating that will save you a few eyerolls and death-stares.

 

Family is such a blessing in life, you want to make the most of your time with loved ones.  Following some of these tricks will keep you happy and having more quality time to enjoy, even if Uncle Charlie won’t keep his political views to himself or Cousin Elise keeps going on and on about her facelift.