Planning a wedding is no easy task. It can be hard work, and can drive you a bit crazy if you’re not careful. Trying to de-stress when planning a wedding and taking time to relax is so important. The physical benefits of relaxing includes a reduction in blood pressure, and increase of blood flow (giving us more energy), helps to clear our minds (thus improving our thinking and concentration), and lessens any tension. So, before you end up in the loony bin, what can you do to relax and so you aren’t a stressed out bride while planning your wedding?
Here are 6 relaxation tips to help you unwind and keep sane while planning your wedding.
1) Exercise and relaxation practices
Exercise comes in many forms – from brisk walking, yard work, dancing, biking, lifting weights, yoga . . . this list goes on and on. Exercise is beneficial for relaxation as it reduces levels of stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol, while increasing endorphins (hormones that reduce pain and boost pleasure).
Want something less physical? Then how about:
• Deep Breathing
• Aromatherapy
• Meditation
2) Adjust your diet . . .
Like many people, when you’re busy, you probably rely more on fast food or grabbing whatever happens to be in the cupboard or fridge. I know how easy it is to pop by for a burger and fries, especially when you’re constantly on the go. But a poor diet can negatively impact your mood and lower your energy levels. So slow down and limit your caffeine intake and make sure you’re getting the proper amounts of lean proteins, healthy fats, fruits and vegetables, and whole grains. Healthy eating doesn’t have to be hard. Sit down with a nice cup of tea. Many types of tea, including black, green, and oolong, have L-theanine, an amino acid that has a relaxing effect on the mind and reduces anxiety. Try peppermint or chamomile tea before bed time (both are natural muscle relaxants). And don’t forget to drink plenty of water, as dehydration can increases cortisol levels.
3) . . . and savor your food
“Why should I do this,” you ask? By savoring your food, you will slow down while eating, and be more mindful of what you are putting in your mouth. Eating quickly, and not really paying attention can lead to overeating as you are ignoring your body’s fullness cues. This can also lead to better digestion (as well as avoiding any gastric distress later).
4) Carve out some non-wedding time
Don’t let your wedding plans become all-consuming. The rest of your daily life hasn’t vanished, so schedule some time for the activities you’ve always enjoyed. Set aside one day a week where you do not deal with anything wedding-related. Go out on a “date” with your partner (like you used to do before you were engaged). Take a long bubble bath. Relax with a face mask. Meet friends for lunch or brunch (no wedding talk!).
5) Take time to enjoy your hobbies or try a new hobby
There are so many different types of hobbies: painting, sculpting, playing an instrument, cooking/baking, playing sports, needlework, writing, tending a garden, coloring book for grown-ups . . . I’m sure it won’t be hard for you to find something you’d enjoy. Hobbies force us to take time for ourselves, which leads to decluttering our minds and de-stressing. (By the way – using your hobby time to make something for your wedding doesn’t count!)
6) Realize (and accept) that there is no such thing as “Perfection” in real life
I get it that you want your wedding day to be “perfect,” but there is just no such thing as perfection. We are human beings, and as human beings we are not perfect beings. So instead, shoot for “Good Enough.” Now, I’m not saying to settle for “meh,” or something that was thrown together willy-nilly. Instead, this “Good Enough” is good, and wonderful, and will work just fine. So take the pressure off and remind yourself that “perfection” in real life really is an unattainable goal.
While the above tips are perfect ways to help you de-stress when planning a wedding, they can be done at any stage in your life.
What other relaxation techniques do you use when you need to de-stress? Let me know in the comments below!
Photo Credits:
Woman Exercising – Franchise Opportunities via Flickr (CC BY-SA 2.0)
Cup of Tea – Jason Gessner via Flickr (CC BY-SA 2.0) (cropped from original)
Salad – Lola Audu via Flickr (CC BY 2.0)
Woman Reading – Christine via Flickr (CC BY-SA 2.0)
Hearts, Joy, Love!
Jean
Are you stressing out over planning your wedding?
Weddings From The Heart can help. Contact me today at jean@weddingsfromtheheart.net or by phone or text at 937-581-3647!