Just Breathe …Make Time to Pamper Yourself

Weddings and stress go together like, well, cake and punch. Staying within your budget, fine-tuning important details, managing the wedding party, worrying about creating the most memorable day ever — no wonder you’re feeling overwhelmed. Fortunately, the savvy bride will pay attention and make it a point to step back a bit when she feels the pressure rising. Check out some of these stress-busting remedies so you can put the joy back into planning — and making it through — your big day.

• Smart Moves: One of the best ways to increase serotonin (the feel-good hormone that makes you happy when you eat chocolate or hug your fiancé) is to get moving. Many gyms and health spas offer “boot camps” just for brides. These classes usually take place over the course of several weeks or months and incorporate cardiovascular conditioning as well as weight training. Not only will you feel at peace with the world, but your wedding dress is going to look even better on your buff bod. If you don’t have time to commit to an exercise program, take a stroll with a friend, walk the dog, or play some basketball. Any physical movement helps clear the mind and relax the soul.

• Sweet Solitude: Your mom wants to go with you to look at the dress; your mother-in-law is throwing another shower for you this weekend; and your sister called to see if you can do lunch Tuesday. If all this “togetherness” sometimes leaves you feeling worn down and grumpy, schedule some time for yourself. Enjoy a solo shopping trip, whip up your favorite dessert, organize your closet, download your current faves to your iPod, or do whatever you enjoy doing most!

• Spaaaah Lady: One tried-and-true cure for what ails you is spending time in a place that’s all about you! Even if you can’t get in anything more than a quick pedicure, a trip to the spa will energize you.

• Power Down: Turn off your cell phone, BlackBerry, iPhone, or anything else that demands an immediate response. Enjoy the quiet and take a break from the madness for a few hours. Who knows? Maybe that person who calls you at every crisis might start solving the problems herself … or find someone else to call.

• Time for Two: There’s nothing like a wedding to increase tension and bickering between even the closest of couples. Spend time with your fiancé doing non-wedding activities, and try not to let every conversation turn to your nuptial “to do” list.

When the signs are all pointing to the need to take some “me” moments, listen up, kick back, and chill out — it’s a well-deserved gift that you can and should give to yourself! ~CM