Studies of work patterns show that Americans work considerably more than our European counterparts. Work stresses brought home can cause relationship problems. But, can going on a vacation really strengthen your relationship?

The answer is yes. Here are five reasons. 

1. Vacations affect your mood ... positively.

Changing your physical environment and daily routine can greatly influence how you think and feel about yourself, your partner and the world around you.

For example, owners of second homes report a felt shift in consciousness when arriving at their "getaway" place. They say they feel calmer, more centered and connected to an inner peacefulness that improves how they get along.

The same is true for couples on vacation. They are less defensive, more open, relaxed and connected. Experiencing this connection on vacation makes it easier to hold onto it back home.

2. Vacations highlight the "us" factor.

What do most couples crave? More free time and more undivided attention devoted to one another.

Vacations are where partners can focus exclusively on one another's needs in a special place. It's a special time that gives you the opportunity to give each other the kind of up-close attention that creates true intimacy. Vacations are where couples can nurture one another emotionally, sexually, intellectually and spiritually.

3. Vacations encourage playing together.

One of the factors that explains why couples go from being "in love" soul mates to bickering roommates is benign neglect. They take one another and their relationship for granted. The same old routine becomes so entrenched that even playing together falls to the bottom of their to-do list. 

Vacations are all about playing together. Suddenly, what was neglected now takes center stage. Playing and having fun together takes us away from problems, pressures and responsibilities. Our mood and spirit lighten and we are more likely to see what most attracted us to one another in the beginning. That's why playing together is a strong aphrodisiac. 

4. Vacations reinforce family bonds.

If you are married with children, vacations can create a host of logistical issues to solve. Keeping everyone happy can also be a challenge.

With that said, family vacations can strengthen a relationship because they remind partners of what is truly important.

Material possessions come and go and so do most worries and problems. What endures are close, caring relationships.

Most adults clearly remember their childhood family vacations as wonderful adventures where they felt safe and loved. Celebrating a family vacation reminds partners how centrally important their relationship is. Vacations can also be a wake up call to get back to treating one another as precious.

5. Vacations help relationships grow.

In strong healthy relationships, partners feel that they are growing. Vacations that introduce us to new countries and cultures, that stretch our minds and challenge us physically expand our sense of self in constructive ways. Sharing this kind of personal growth enriches the experience, bonding us closer together.