Couples Reconnect

Love is a human need ✨

Do you know how much couples typically spend on Holiday gifts?

Probably not. As humans, we often don’t want to face the cost of giving, as giving gifts makes us happy (Aknin et al., 2020).

Novotney (2022) explained that gift-giving is unique in how it activates reward pathways in the brain. Unlike receiving an award or winning money, which primarily triggers short-lived dopamine responses, gift-giving involves social interaction and releases oxytocin—a neuropeptide often referred to as the “cuddle hormone.” Oxytocin fosters feelings of trust, safety, and connection, making the reward of gift-giving more enduring.

Blair (2024) refers to Canada statistics that on average, we spend $650 on gifts during the Holiday season, and Canadians prefer to buy meaningful gifts for family and friends.

With Holiday gifts, it really is the thought that counts
What is more important than how much we spend, is our intent, and closeness as expressed in the gift. A true gift from the heart is meaningful.

Of course, meaningful gifts take effort, time and attention – we need to “spy” and notice what our loved ones prefer and imagine being in their shoes to better understand what they would like to have. As far as spending money, Holiday presents do not really have to cost much, as a good gift can simply be something thoughtful that creates a memorable moment.

The gift of time, the gift of presence, the gift of caring — the compilation of small gestures, over time, make a big difference in a relationship.

Sometimes what couples most wish for is to feel heard and understood by their partner. Couples counselling can help with that.

To book an appointment, please call our friendly Intake Team at 493-815-0271.