20 � SOUTH � FEBRUARY ’ 23
Tame wedding-related jitters
metrocreative
How to ease your nerves
Nerves are to be expected when getting married . It is exciting to be engaged and realize you have met that special someone with whom you want to share the rest of your life . But anxiety may creep in as the big day draws closer .
Bride and groom look into each other ’ s eyes before saying “ I do ”
Discuss large changes to come Some couples feel jittery because they haven ’ t spoken about all of the changes ahead . These can include relocation , merging of finances and whether or not children are in your future , among other things . Stress can be tamed if you take a break from wedding planning and discuss these important topics .
Photos by Jenny Harnish , www . greenbrierimages . com
A bride poses near a window in her family ’ s home in Alderson .
A lot of planning goes into a wedding , and often the pressure that comes with trying to create the perfect day can overshadow feelings of love and excitement . That is when wedding jitters may crop up . Couples must recognize they ’ re not alone if they feel a little uneasy as their wedding day draws closer . However , there are ways you can address and tame jitters both before and during the wedding .
Step away from wedding-related tasks Chances are you have spent months with the wedding on your brain . In fact , it likely has consumed your daily life . Take a day or two to do something unrelated to the wedding , whether you ’ re alone , with friends or with your future spouse . Attend a fun event , go out to dinner , queue up several movies for a night in , or take a small trip . Keep wedding details out of the picture while you ’ re enjoying yourself .
Forget about being perfect Wedding jitters often stem from being nervous about everything going to plan . You may put undue pressure on yourself to ensure everything is perfect . But perfection is impossible , and the sooner you accept that a thing or two will likely not work out , the less stressed you may feel . You ’ ll be surrounded by family and friends who will help you roll with the punches , whether that ’ s a torn hemline or a missing buffet item . Guests are here to celebrate you , not pass judgment .
Learn relaxation techniques Learning to relax is important when dealing with anxiety . There are many different relaxation techniques to explore . Some include meditation , yoga , deep-tissue massage , exercise , or immersing yourself in a peaceful spot outdoors . Some people turn to reading or other hobbies to relax . Do not look to alcohol or medication as an outlet to alleviate stress .
Talk to someone If anxiety about the wedding is eating you up , consider speaking with a professional therapist or even a close friend or family member . Sometimes a new perspective is all you need to calm the jitters .
Nervousness when planning a wedding is understandable . However , couples can take steps to tame jitters so they enjoy all that goes into tying the knot .