Your wedding day is a special and joyous occasion, a celebration of love and commitment. However, the reality of wedding planning and executing such a significant event can bring about emotional stress and anxiety. From the meticulous details of the ceremony and reception to the expectations and dynamics of family and friends, so many factors contribute to the pressure that could overshadow the joy and prompt couples to ask themselves, “Why are we doing this? Couldn’t we just elope?” To avoid such thoughts on your wedding day, it is crucial to recognize and address the emotional toll that a special day such as this can take. Learning effective coping and stress management techniques not only ensures a smoother journey down the aisle but also lays the foundation for a healthier, happier marriage.
Amid the hustle and bustle of the wedding day, taking intentional and mindful breaths can be a game-changer. Deep, slow breaths in through the nose and out through the mouth help regulate the nervous system, promoting a sense of calm.
Laughter is a natural stress-reliever that can bring lightness to even the most challenging situations on your wedding day. Surrounded by those you care about and who care deeply about you, laughing together on this happy day can help you to stay present and refocus your mind on the joyous moments of the day. Laughing often also helps us strengthen our immune systems, works out our muscles, and burns calories. There are so many benefits of a good belly laugh!
Our self-talk contributes to our overall well-being, be it negative or positive. Be kind to yourself and challenge negative thoughts that may contribute to stress.
Mindfulness involves being fully present in the moment with an attitude of kindness and curiosity, which can alleviate stress and anxiety. Being present helps us to maintain perspective and approach life as it comes, rather than dwelling on any one specific thing.
Cultivating gratitude can shift your focus from stressors to the positive aspects of the day. We get an instant mood boost when we can take a posture of real, heartfelt gratitude for the good things in our lives. Be they big or small, taking the time to recognize the good things we are fortunate enough to enjoy helps us build up a mental reserve that can help us keep perspective when the going gets tough and things don’t go our way. Gratitude exercises and expressing the gratitude that you feel on your wedding day can work both ways, boosting your mood and the moods of those around you. So take the time to say thank you to your loved ones and those who are there to support you on your special day.
Prioritize self-care leading up to and on your wedding day to ensure that you’re physically and emotionally well. Paying attention to the different aspects of your health, like diet, exercise, sleep, rewarding activities and hobbies, interpersonal relationships, and social media health, can set you up to approach your wedding day feeling healthy, alert, and strong.
Seeking support and connection from friends, family, and professionals can provide invaluable comfort, reassurance, and perspective. When choosing who from your life you’d like close to you on the big day, think about what qualities they bring to the relationship and how they could contribute to the mood of the day. Building deep connections with supportive friends and family can offer you positive support and heartfelt camaraderie.
Managing the emotional stress of a wedding day is essential for both the immediate celebration and the foundation of a strong marriage. By incorporating these stress-relieving strategies into your preparations, you can ensure that your wedding day is not only memorable but also a joyous beginning to a lifetime of happiness together.