We all so look forward to Christmas every year but, at the risk of sounding like The Grinch, inevitably we end up disappointed and bloated, resolving never again to consume seventeen Brussels sprouts or that fourth glass of mulled wine. All in the name of tradition.

This year, why not break with tradition and make a few new rules of your own, making this your sexiest Christmas ever? Forget about fights with the family; instead you and your loved one could ensconce yourself in a cocoon of festive love! It just needs a little preparation…

Come the morning, surprise him with a Christmas stocking to remember by wearing some new, gorgeous lingerie. He won’t be able to contain his joy as he unwraps the goodies you present to him. Wish him a very merry Christmas without even saying a word.

If thinking about getting something exciting as a gift, there are Christmas-themed adult toys on the market. However, traditional models may be preferable and – like puppies – are for life, not just for Christmas. A Santa vibrator might not seem so much of a novelty in July!

The ultimate Christmas gift, one that can last the whole year, could be adding to your armoury of sexual techniques. Do some research and find one or two new positions or alternative ways to administer old favourites. Everyone likes variety and when you’ve been together a while, adding something new might really freshen things up!

Create a sultry, seductive atmosphere. This means leaving the television off! Leave the curtains pulled and light lots of fragrant candles to heighten the senses.

Shun the usual Christmas dinner and opt instead for foods that a) are aphrodisiacs and b) could be incorporated into your love-making. Good suggestions are a) asparagus spears, oysters, chillies, avocados and for b) chocolate, strawberries, bananas.

After dinner, indulge in a sensual massage (to help the food go down) and maybe follow up with a luxurious bath. An afternoon nap is permitted but only a short one to recharge the sexual batteries. Instead of reaching for the Pictionary or Trivial Pursuit, why not buy or make your own sexy game? No surprises what the winner gets. The loser might come out on top too, as it were, too!

Have an orgasmic Christmas!