Wedding planning can be a hectic and busy time for anyone. If you are like most brides your life keeps you more than busy with work, family and any number of other activities. If you are playing both the part of the bride and the wedding planner, stress can soon creep up on you. In order to enjoy yourself when your Big day finally arrives, you should take some time out of your pre-nuptial duties to relax. Here are some tips for relaxation from the Rush University Medical Center:

            ● Try to get regular exercise

  - Even if you’re not a gym rat, take regular walks with your dog or a friend, or go for a weekend hikes with your groom.

            ● Join a yoga class

   - This age old practice is great for stress reduction and relaxation. At the end of most classes there is a relaxation and deep breathing time that is sure to return you to your pre-engagement centered self.

            ● Schedule fun non-wedding related activities   

               - Remember dinner and a movie?

               - Try a stroll through the park during your lunch break

               - Pamper yourself with monthly manicures and pedicures

- Set several hours aside every Saturday for only non-wedding related    hobbies

            ● Record your journey

- A great way to process through stress is to put your thoughts in ink.    Keeping a daily journal is also a fun keepsake to revisit after the wedding is over!

            ● Do some volunteer work

- Put things in perspective by focusing energy on other people for an afternoon.

            ● Listen to your favorite band

               - Turn up the volume and dance

               - Try to catch some live shows if your favorites come to town

Most importantly BREATH! Enjoy the process, it’s a once in a lifetime journey!!

Emily