Wedding anxiety: here's how to overcome it
Anxiety and weddings: let's admit it, we all know that planning a wedding can be stressful. Knowing that a little organisation is our lifeline, however, helps.
One of the best ways to fight the stress and restlessness of the preparations that keep us awake at night is aromatherapy, which helps soothe the nerves and make decisions calmly and confidently. But let's look at how, in practice, we can avoid stress with a few small steps.
Here's how to reduce anxiety:
Photo © My Happy Wedding
Change your focus
The preparations matter, but it's important to remember that you're about to celebrate one of the most important days of your life, and if the red ribbon you chose for the church decorations isn't quite the red you wanted but half a shade off, it's not the end of the world. That day you'll have your family, friends and all your loved ones around you. Don't fall into the whirlpool of perfectionism.
Mindfulness is the key.
Mindfulness means paying attention in a particular way: to the present moment, and without judgement. It can also be seen as a way of fully experiencing the moment. As Horace would have said, “Hic et nunc”. A powerful mindfulness exercise for stress is 7/11 breathing, known to therapists around the world as a good practice against stress, panic and anxiety. Here's a mini guide:
Breathe in for a count of 7
Breathe out for a count of 11.
Do this once a day, or whenever you feel the need. It may seem strange, but breathing this way will relax your body and, in turn, your mind. A clearer outlook helps you relax and release stress.
The right place to sleep
Stress is often caused by sleepless nights full of thoughts and possible plan Bs. Make sure the room you sleep in is at the right temperature, dark enough, and that your bed is comfortable. These tips may sound obvious, but they work.
Create a routine
Last but not least, create a bedtime routine: your mind will associate this behaviour with getting ready to sleep. For example, a scented bath or a relaxing beauty treatment before going to bed is a good way to prepare for a night's sleep.
Frequently asked questions
Is it normal to feel anxious before the wedding?
Yes, it's perfectly normal: planning a wedding involves lots of decisions. A little organisation and a few healthy habits help a great deal.
How can you reduce the stress of the preparations?
Share out the tasks, create a routine, sleep well and allow yourselves moments when you don't talk about the wedding. Mindfulness can help too.
How can you reach your wedding day feeling calm?
Rely on suppliers you trust, get everything ready a few days before, and on the day itself, delegate: your only job is to enjoy it.
