5 Tips for Overcoming Wedding Stress
We all sometimes hear that annoying tapping of doubt and stress from the devil on our shoulder - but we don't have to listen to it. We've asked Chloe to give our customers some tips on overcoming wedding stresses - because, we want you to enjoy the entire experience.
You're planning the biggest party of your life; and it's natural to feel overwhelmed at times. But with proper organisation, a few stress busting tools and adapting your mindset, overcoming wedding stress could be easier than you think.
Less is more
Break everything down into small chunks, 'David Allen' style. Big tasks can seem overwhelming and figuring out where to start is often the hardest part. Breaking things down into individual steps can make it much easier and more manageable. For example, rather than having to organise the flowers in one swoop, start by researching and making a list of different options. Then move on to the next step.
style. Big tasks can seem overwhelming and figuring out where to start is often the hardest part. Breaking things down into individual steps can make it much easier and more manageable. For example, rather than having to organise the flowers in one swoop, start by researching and making a list of different options. Then move on to the next step.
Focus on the task at hand
Despite popular belief, no one can ever truly 'multitask'; when we appear to do so we are actually switching very quickly from one task to another. Remember you can only do one thing at a time, so focus fully on the task at hand until it's completed, rather than trying to organise multiple things at once, or worrying about all the other things you need to do. Being mindful and in the present moment has been shown to boost happiness, calmness and success.
And Breathe...
This breathing exercise works by activating the 'rest and digest' mode of your nervous system. Use it in stressful moments when you need to calm down and take 5 minutes for yourself. Breathe in for a count of 3 and then out for 5. As you breathe in, imagine your belly expanding like a balloon and then deflating as you exhale. Taking deep belly breathes and lengthening the out breath is what makes it so effective.
Imagine things as you want them
Mentally rehearse the big day going well. You subconscious mind doesn't know the difference between a real and a really vividly imagined event, so instead of imagining all the things that could go wrong, imagine everything going perfectly and how calm and relaxed you feel. You are priming your mind to think of the wedding in a positive and relaxed way.
Pen & Paper at the ready!
If you find yourself lying awake at night or ruminating over the same worries, over and over, write them down. Get a big pad for paper and just write a stream of consciousness. Thoughts, worries and frustrations make more sense and may seem more manageable when down on paper. It can help you gain a clearer perspective and even quieten down the mental chatter before bed.
Try to remember, the main reason you're doing this is to make you both happier and bring you closer, so don't let wedding stress get in the way of that. Good luck!