Thanks, Sylvia Plath, for that quote...a woman after my own heart because there is simply no better way to de-stress in my opinion. Finding ways to unwind is what keeps life light and it is so necessary for everyone but it is especially important for people who are currently planning a wedding.
Every couple who is planning has been there: Juggling the never ending to-do list, feeling your tension climb up to a terrifying level, and thinking that you’ll truly snap if just one more thing happens. When you reach this point you are operating in reactive mode and that is when you say soemthing you will regret or make a decision that bites you in the butt downt the line.
Even small weddings can provoke usually calm families to become emotional, anxious and tense. For almost any wedding there are lots of expectations and lots of people involved and with all that energy and emotions therer is bound to be a tornado of stree swept your way. The best thing to do is take a moment to pause because that really is the only way to cut through the mess then do use one of these ideas to cut the stress without hurting your wallet during this very expensive time in your life.
1-Do Something You Loved Doing as a Kid
Just because you’re all grown up now doesn’t mean you can’t still partake in the simple joys of childhood. Turn off your cell phone, disconnect from the internet, and act like a kid again!
Ride a bike to the park. Start a pick-up kickball game with your family or friends. Go to the beach and bring along your favorite book. Make a snowman in the wintertime. The possibilities and your imagination are endless.
2-Volunteer Your Time or Expertise
One of the best feelings in the world is giving back to others. Volunteering can be something small and no matter what you do, you can be content to know that you’ve made a difference in someone’s life.
3-Stretch, Breathe and Meditate
Before you go into meltdown mode, hit pause, relax and take a breather.
Yoga is a great thing for some , but even some basic meditation, stretching and breathing techniques can work wonders for your stress relief. When you stress out, tension is stored in your body, causing pain and tightness, especially in your back and shoulders. Stretching will get your body loose and your circulation flowing in full force again.
4-Laugh
It’s been scientifically proven that laughter is both preventive and therapeutic. It decreases your stress hormone levels and boosts healthy hormones, like endorphins, while strengthening your immune system. You even get a mini workout for your abs, diaphragm and your shoulders!
Laughter really is the best medicine, so call up your funniest friend and hang out. You can also rent your favorite comedy or watch re-runs of a funny show together. You’ll be glad you did.
5-Sleep
Nothing beats a good night’s rest but sometimes that's not even enough. At stressful times getting even 30 minutes of shut eye can help you relax and put your problems in perspective.
If you’re going to try to sleep off your stress, make sure you’ve got surroundings that promote good quality rest. A dark, cool, quiet room with few electronics is best. If you still feel too antsy to rest, try a cup of Valerian Root or chamomile tea. A warm bath can also help put you in a restful state of mind.
6-Get in Touch with your Creative Side
Looking at art definitely has its calming effects, but it’s not always all about the finished product. People who make art as a hobby find that the process of self-expression through unwinding and creating art can be extremely soothing as well.
Artistic self-expression helps lessen anxiety, stress and depression, and promote self-awareness, self-esteem and insight into your life. You can pick up reasonably priced art supplies or art kits at any hobby store. Just set aside an art space, turn on some relaxing music and paint to your health!
7-Cook a Delicious Homemade Dinner
Back up, slow down and consider taking the time to cook your next meal with simple items you already have in your fridge and cupboards. The process of chopping, measuring, stirring and sautéing and even washing the dishes afterward can be incredibly therapeutic.
8-Get Outdoors, Go to the Park, Take a Hike
Stop and smell the flowers! Science has proven time and time again how the psychological benefits of nature can calm the brain and better your mood and concentration.
So get back to basics, and enjoy nature. Bring a blanket to the park and lie out, or go for a hike and take in the scenery. Bask in the sun, breathe in the fresh air, and appreciate all the colorful simplicity of the outdoors. Your brain’s health depends on it.
9-Take a Bath with Candles and Aromatherapy
Submerging in a bath tub relieves your body from the constant pull of gravity, and heated water relaxes muscle tension, improving circulation, range of motion and energy flow.
Melt away your stress by creating a mini spa in your bathroom. Turn on soothing music, dim the lights, light candles and prepare fresh towels. The music will drown out household sounds that you may associate with everyday stressors, and relaxed lighting can go a long way when creating a peaceful mood.
Most importantly, make arrangements for your well-deserved uninterrupted solitude. Be sure to prepare your bed beforehand so you have a nice, comfy space to crawl into after your bath.
Now go and unwind and enjoy the planning process because it only happens once :)
