Brides magazine recently published an article citing a study that showed that 96% of couples freak out over wedding planning. Needless to say, there's some major stress that comes with organizing a wedding. I mean, it's hard enough to get a group of four to go in one direction, much less a group of 120.
But wedding planning doesn't have to be full of stress and overwhelm. There are many things you can do to keep stress levels at bay, including prioritizing your tasks, keeping lines of communication open, and taking it day by day.
One of the most important things you can do to de-stress while planning is to practice self-care. Not only will it help you to relax, stay calm, and clear your mind, it will help you be a better, happier version of you. And that's something you and your significant other can get behind.
Here are some self-care tips you can start putting into practice today.
Pamper Yourself
Don't think for a second that pampering yourself is a selfish act. Visiting the beauty salon for a manicure or getting a massage can help relieve everyday stress, which in turn will help you feel ready to tackle wedding planning tasks.
Allot yourself some pampering time, whether it's every other week or once a month. Relax with a glass of wine while you get a pedicure or get a 30 minute neck and shoulder massage on your lunch break. Whatever works for you!
Meditate
Did you know that meditation can actually change your mood? When you get stressed your blood pressure goes up, heart rate increases, and you release cortisol and adrenaline into your bloodstream. But when you meditate, your heart rate and blood pressure go down and your body releases serotonin (the happy chemical) and oxytocin.
Even a two minute meditation session can help you relax and see things with more clarity. Head to Youtube for all kinds of meditations (guided, instrumental, etc.) or download a meditation app onto your phone.
Move Your Body
Whether it's a weekly dance class, at-home yoga, or a gym session, moving your body will help you de-stress and get fit.
Most of us sit in an office all day, then head home and binge on Netflix. No wonder our bodies are crying out for help! Set aside 30 minutes to an hour a day for some movement, even if it's just a walk around the block (ask your honey to join!). You'll clear your mind, release body tension, and set yourself up for stress-free wedding planning moments.
Eat Healthy
Just like exercise, eating healthy can decrease stress. When your body is healthy, you'll be able to handle stress better.
According to Health, there are some foods that can potentially relieve anxiety. You can read the whole article here, but some of the foods they mention are:
- green leafy vegetables
- turkey breast
- oatmeal
- yogurt
- salmon
- blueberries
- avocado
Do What You Enjoy
Wedding planning may take up a good amount of your free time, but it's important to remember to engage in other activities, and preferably ones that you really enjoy. Read a book, do some gardening, have a coffee date with a friend, play a game with your partner. Whatever it is you enjoy doing, whether on your own or with someone else, do it! Remember, there's life outside wedding planning.