In today's society, almost everyone combats stress and struggles with how to manage stressful situations. Many people ask me how I manage my stress levels especially in a high stress job because wedding planning seems to be synonymous with stress; however, it doesn't have to be that way. When planning a wedding, it is important to understand the process is going to come with natural stressors, such as people asking you questions you don't have the answers for, to picking a color palette. However, if it gets in the way of your health and well being, it is important to take a break from the planning process and just relax...
These are 5 things I do when life (and wedding planning) is just too much.
1. Take a break.
First of all, if everything is just too overwhelming set a time period that you will not talk or discuss wedding planning. Maybe it is two days, or maybe you need a whole week off. During that time focus on you and your fiancé. Go on a date out or stay in with pizza. Re-connect and remember why you got engaged in the first place.
2. Spend some time alone.
Go for a walk each day with your pet or your boo, take a bath, watch some TV. Make time for yourself to feel normal and get off the internet. Everyone who knows me, knows I take baths daily because they make me feel pampered. I get a glass of my favorite beverage, put on a sheet mask, pour the bubbles, and light a few candles to make things luxurious, and let the relaxing begin. This gives me time to decompress and meditate on the day that has happened and the days ahead. If I don't have time for a bath, taking a walk down the street and getting away from the phone helps too.
3. Exercise.
In the words of Elle Woods...
Exercise is one of the best things you can do for your physical health, but it also can alter your mental state and help reduce your stress. Schedule weekly workouts and put them on your calendar if you need to keep your schedule. I like to workout in a group exercise class each Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, and then on Saturday and Sunday I work out at home, take a long walk through the park with my dog, or hike with a friend. Getting a workout partner can also help you stay motivated and fit through this stressful time. And we all like looking good in our wedding dresses (or out of them). So go on a walk, join a workout group, or just workout in your living room. My favorite home workouts can be found on Popsugar's YouTube channel.
4. Have a girls (or guys) day!
Having a girls day can help you relax and unwind. Your friends can be your biggest support during this time and can help you laugh and unwind. Once a month or so, my friends and I schedule some much needed girl time. Sometimes we invite our significant others along, but other times we just save time for just us girls. During that time, we laugh about our own personal inside jokes that we made before we met our significant others; we eat our favorite snacks and catch up with each other's lives; and we just enjoy our time basking in our glorious friendship.
5. Remember to enjoy the process.
This time is a special time in your life. The wedding day will go quickly, but the planning can be fun as well. Enjoy the time you get to spend with your mom or best friends looking at pretty dresses. Don't take things too seriously. Say thank you to the people supporting you financially and emotionally. There is no need to argue over a fork and knife or if Aunt Susan is invited. Obviously it is your day, and remember that this is about you and the love of your life, but don't let the process steal your joy! Enjoy the little moments because once they are gone, they are only memories.
I hope this list has helped you de-stress and unwind. And if it hasn't, go grab a glass of wine because you deserve it!
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