Planning every detail for your wedding from the attire, to the venue, and the guest list can be a joyful stress that takes a toll on your health. Try these simple tips to lead yourself to feel your best on wedding day!

1. Reduce Stress

Planning and preparing for a wedding can be stressful. Start the process of alleviating your stress by identifying the sources. There are two types of stress: eustress, which is positive and can be motivating, and distress, a negative source of anxiety. What is unnecessary and can be left behind, eradicated, or revamped? Create a to-do list, and delegate tasks to people that you trust, like your wedding party or coordinator who will help to disperse the load. Surround yourself with a positive support team that can help you to stay clear of unnecessary tension. Then begin implementing a daily routine like meditation and breathing techniques with a cup of herbal tea to start your day. This can create a moment for yourself and set the tone that will help you to feel grounded and ready to tackle what’s left on your to-do list.

2. Physical Activity

Many of us know the benefits that regular activity can have on our physical health. But did you know that physical activity can also relieve stress and boost your happy endorphins that alleviate anxiety and promote overall confidence? Finding movement that feels great on your body can help you fuel the positive energy that you are looking for on your big day! Explore new activities like group fitness, one on one sessions with a trainer, or even workouts with your partner. Identify what feels best to you, and plug it into your regular schedule. Making intentional physical activity a priority, just as you would any other meeting on your agenda, will help you allot time for what’s important to you.

3. Nutrition and Hydration

Prepare for the big day by eating high quality nutritious foods that fuel your mind and body. You may need to investigate what feels best by doing a de-bloat and elimination test to identify any triggers or intolerances you may have. For two weeks try eating whole, fresh foods, while eliminating dairy, caffeine, refined sugar, processed foods, and alcohol. As you slowly integrate them back in, track how your body responds. This may help you to pinpoint any foods or beverages that help you feel great versus cause undesired inflammation, bloating, or digestive responses. The day before and day of the wedding, don’t forget to focus on you. Be mindful of meals, healthy snacks, and water to stay fueled and hydrated. This will prevent you from feeling light-headed or low on energy throughout the day. Try a homemade trail mix for a quick grab and go option.

4. Sleep

Along with physical activity and nutrition, sleep is one of the pillars of health. It is recommended to get an average of seven to nine hours of uninterrupted sleep each night. Quality sleep has been linked to many benefits including clearer thinking, increased immune function, weight management, and physical performance. Try creating a sleep routine and set schedule each night. Design an attractive, cool, dark room, free from disturbing noise and light to encourage an inviting space for rest. Eliminate both food and technology two hours prior to aid in digestion shift your brain into sleep mode. Sleep, like exercise, is important to schedule in so that the day’s to-do list and pre-event activities don’t take you away from your much needed rest and recovery.

5. Love Thy Partner as Thyself

Planning for your big day can be so exciting and all-consuming that you forget to make time for each other. Do you prefer handwritten love notes, a conversation over wine, or maybe a gift that says your partner was paying attention when you mentioned something you liked in passing? Do you love when they make time for you even when life is so busy, or is it when they massage your back after a long day? What is your expression of love? Knowing and communicating the way that you like to receive love, along with how your partner likes to experience love, is critical in a fully nurturing relationship. Authentically giving in the way they best receive is, I believe, the greatest expression of love. Try committing to one thing a day that would make your partner feel as special as they are.

SANDY ORSUND

Sandy Orsund is certified a Holistic Health Coach and Personal Trainer. Her work is rooted in helping individuals, couples, and families toward the greatest expression of themselves. Using a variety of practical lifestyle coaching methods, she co-creates completely personalized action plans based on your goals. Sandy is a queer mentor, coach, and advocate who empowers you and provides ongoing support and guidance as you create sustainable health and happiness.