Look and feel your best for the big day.
Planning a wedding can be one of the most exciting times in your life, but it can also be overwhelming. From coordinating vendors to picking out decor, there are so many details to juggle. With the whirlwind of wedding prep, it’s easy to forget about something even more important: your health and wellbeing. But the good news is, by prioritizing simple self-care habits, you can feel radiant and energized as you walk down the aisle. Here’s your guide to boosting your mood, staying grounded, and creating healthy habits that last long after you say “I do.”
1. Add Movement to Your Daily Routine
No matter how busy your schedule might get, moving your body is essential for both your mental and physical health. “Working out regularly will help you reach your physical goals, gain confidence, boost your mood, increase energy, decrease the risk of disease, reduce stress, improve sleep, and the list goes on,” notes fitness expert Stephanie Thomas.
Instead of pushing your body to the extreme, find activities that you genuinely look forward to. Whether it’s taking a walk, riding your bike, or lifting weights, choose a workout routine that brings joy instead of feeling like a chore. For a balanced approach, try combining a bit of cardio with strength training or yoga.
2. Nourish Your Body With Nutritious Meals
Yes, planning a wedding might feel like a full-time job, but eating regular, well-balanced meals is non-negotiable. Fueling your body with nutrient-dense foods will provide the energy you need to tackle your wedding to-do list with ease. Dietitian Juliana Shalek recommends, “Eat regular, consistent protein- and fiber-rich meals and snacks throughout the day to help control blood sugar and prevent cravings.”
Batch cooking on the weekends, keeping healthy snacks on hand, or opting for a meal delivery service can make it easier to stick to your goals even on busy days.
3. Increase Your Water Intake
An often-overlooked part of a healthy diet is staying hydrated. According to Harvard Health Publishing, not drinking enough water can lead to brain fog, fatigue, low energy, and even dull skin. Aim for at least four to six cups of water daily, and more if you’re active or it’s a particularly busy day.
If you struggle to remember, throw a reusable water bottle in your bag and set hourly reminders on your phone. For an extra flavor boost, try adding fresh herbs, lemon, or berries to your water.
4. Invest in Your Sleep Hygiene
Leading up to the wedding, sleepless nights are common. It’s hard to shut off your mind with all the details swirling around, but getting enough sleep is crucial for both your health and mood. Try to aim for seven to nine hours of restful sleep each night. Establish a calming bedtime routine, such as turning off screens an hour before bed, keeping your room cool and dark, and sipping on a relaxing tea.
5. Practice Mindfulness
Wedding planning can bring a flurry of stress and anxiety, but mindfulness can help you stay grounded. The goal is to bring awareness to the present moment, noticing thoughts and feelings without judgment. Take five minutes a day to sit quietly and focus on your breathing, or practice being present during routine tasks like brushing your teeth or eating.
The more you practice, the easier it becomes to savor the special moments leading up to your wedding day.
Consider Meditation
For couples feeling overwhelmed, meditation is a powerful tool for reducing stress and calming your mind. Find a quiet space, close your eyes, and focus on your breath. Apps like Calm or Headspace offer guided meditations that range from five minutes to longer sessions, depending on your needs.
Start small—just five minutes a day—and see how much clearer and more centered you feel.
7. Establish a Journaling Routine
Journaling is a wonderful way to process emotions and relieve wedding planning stress. “Putting pen to paper allows you to release what’s on your mind and gain clarity,” therapist Marissa Nelson shares. Whether you jot down a gratitude list, note positive affirmations, or vent about a difficult conversation with a vendor, it can help you navigate the highs and lows of the planning process.
8. Create Boundaries Around Technology
Wedding planning often means hours on your laptop or phone, which can drain your energy. Make it a point to disconnect regularly. When spending time with your partner, set your phone on “Do Not Disturb” or put it away completely. Use these tech-free moments to reconnect and have meaningful conversations.
9. Prioritize Social Connection
With so much to do, it’s tempting to cancel plans and dive into wedding tasks. But nurturing your social life is vital for your health and happiness. “Spending time with loved ones boosts your mood and helps you manage stress,” says Nelson. Schedule weekly coffee dates or phone calls with friends, even if it’s just a short chat.
10. Carve Out Alone Time With Your Partner
During the wedding planning process, most conversations revolve around the big day. But don’t forget to set aside time to just be a couple. Schedule a weekly date night with a no-wedding-talk rule, or plan a fun, spontaneous day trip together. This quality time will remind you why you’re getting married in the first place.
