By Elizabeth Nelson
7 Year Wedding Industry Expert
Weddings are stressful…but does it have to be that way? Not necessarily! With these simple wellness tips, you’ll stay more relaxed from saying yes to I Do to the honeymoon.
The Importance of Wellness
As I meet couples from venue to venue and empathize with their stress, decision fatigue, family overinvolvement (or under-involvement), and other wedding planning stresses, one thing is clear…those who stay balanced feel energized while planning their big day. So what’s their secret?
Start with self-care. Remember, everything will come together, and it’s best not to stress about the little details. When you feel your best and implement more self-care, stress fades. By the way, the average engagement lasts around 12-13 months. And it only takes about 65 days for most of us to change or create a habit. This means you have plenty of time to work towards healthier habits, self-care, and be more mindful. Start with one thing (like drinking plenty of water, taking the stairs instead of the elevator, not scrolling through Instagram in bed) and work at it until it’s second nature. Too much change at once, and you might just feel even more stressed.
Self-Care Secrets from Past Brides
Prioritizing self-care in the midst of wedding planning is crucial for staying centered. If you can afford it, book rejuvenating treatments like massages or spa days to melt away tension. One savvy bride I know scheduled 90-minute massage sessions every other week. As she puts it, “The massages released all the knots and tightness from endless hours hunched over my laptop, diving into endless vendor research.”
Move That Body (and Feed it, too)
Making time for movement, nourishing meals, and beloved hobbies is also vital, even better if body movement involves your beloved hobbies! Carve out non-negotiable slots for your usual workout classes, whether vinyasa yoga, boxing, or long walks, to move stuck energy. Meal prep veggie-packed dishes in advance to stay fueled and hydrated. And protect your cherished hobbies – if knitting calms you, keep that crafting date with yourself!
Another couple I know started a “wedding workout challenge” with daily yoga videos and weekend neighborhood walks.
Unplug to Recharge
In our arguably overconnected world, building in tech-free periods is essential to stay calm. The constant pings from emails, texts, and social media can quickly drain even the most zen bride or groom’s battery.
Make it a habit to silence notifications and put your devices on do not disturb mode during certain times. Better yet, turn phones off completely and stash them away for chunks of your day. Create sacred “no tech” periods to recharge physically and mentally. I like to leave my “Do Not Disturb” on from 6 PM-10 AM, only allowing family members to bypass.
Mindful Moments
Meditate to hit the reset button on mental chaos. Daily mindful breathing for 5-10 minutes can transform stress into serenity. Try a guided app, join a class, or use YouTube videos to build the habit. Focusing on your inhales and exhales works wonders.
Another couple I met at Black Oak Mountain Vineyards in California swears by taking “meditation breaks” whenever they feel anxiety or tension rising. They’d stop what they were doing, set a 5-minute timer, and simply follow their breath awareness. “It was a game changer for our engagement and marriage,” the groom said. On the morning of their wedding, they started by hosting a yoga and meditation session on the deck and watched the sunrise.
Journal Your Journey
Make journaling a consistent practice to process the whirlwind of thoughts and emotions healthily. Getting feelings out on paper provides self-awareness, perspective, and an outlet during ups and downs.
You could keep a notebook to jot down vents, dreams for her marriage, reflections on the planning process, and more. It’s a great way to work through frustrations and capture wonderful moments.
Gratitude Lists
Consider starting entries with a gratitude list too. Pausing to actively appreciate the positive parts of your day and journey is an instant spirit-lifter during stressful times. At my best, I start everyday with writing about 5-10 things I am grateful for. I don’t always get to it in the mornings, but when I do, it sets the stage for a better day for me.
Short and Sweet Love Notes
You can even incorporate journaling into couples’ time by taking turns writing love notes, vows, or future goals back and forth in a shared notebook. How cute and thoughtful would it be to write a few sweet notes and hide them for your fiancee to find?
Stay Connected to Your Partner
Perhaps most importantly, connect with your partner amidst the wedding whirlwind. Open communication and quality time together are vital during this transitional period.
Make Space for Each Other
Schedule regular check-ins, whether a weekly meeting over coffee or a morning debrief before you start your days. Use this sacred space to share stresses, celebrate wins, and ensure you’re on the same page logistically and emotionally.
Just as crucial? Designated date nights and activities that have absolutely nothing to do with wedding planning. Getting dressed up for a romantic dinner, taking a dance class together, or going for a weekend hiking trip can rekindle romance and help you remember why you’re doing this in the first place!
Protect time to be fully present with each other. Savor morning cuddles, express affirmations, and stay physically connected through simple acts like hand-holding (or playing footsie!). This consistency and intimacy help you weather any storm together as an unshakeable team.
Best of Luck
The days are chaotic but fleeting – adopting wellness habits now sets you up for a lifetime of health as a married couple. Don’t let stress steal your joy! When you look and feel your best, bliss shines through. Stay centered, bride-to-be, and watch wedding worries fade with ease.
