Wedding planning—the magical, once-in-a-lifetime journey where love, excitement, and an endless to-do list collide. It’s supposed to be the happiest time of your life, right? It is, but let’s be realistic: between vendor calls, dress fittings, budget talks, and sometimes also family drama, it can feel more like an emotional marathon. But in reality, how we perceive this time - stressful or enjoyable - depends on our mindset and whether we know how to relax and set healthy boundaries.

If you’re not careful, that stress can take a serious toll on your mind, body, and even your relationship. But - with the right self-care habits and stress-busting techniques, you can navigate this rollercoaster without losing your sanity (or snapping at your fiancé over napkin colors). So, if you want to look radiant, feel amazing, and actually enjoy the lead-up to your big day, keep reading. We’ve got practical tips to help you stay calm, centered, and wedding-day ready.

Master the Art of Mindfulness

If wedding planning has your brain running at 100 miles per hour, mindfulness is your best friend. It’s all about slowing down and being present. But even just five minutes of deep breathing or meditation can help calm those racing thoughts. When stress and anxiety take over, your breath can be your best tool to regain calm and focus.

If you haven't tried techniques that help calm your mind and anxious body yet, try these techniques:

4-7-8 Breathing (Relaxation Breath)

• Inhale through your nose for 4 seconds.
• Hold your breath for 7 seconds.
• Exhale slowly through your mouth for 8 seconds.
• Repeat for 4–5 cycles.

This technique helps slow your heart rate and promotes deep relaxation.

Box Breathing (Square Breathing)

• Inhale deeply through your nose for 4 seconds.
• Hold your breath for 4 seconds.
• Exhale slowly through your mouth for 4 seconds.
• Hold your breath again for 4 seconds.
• Repeat for a few minutes.

This method is great for reducing anxiety and improving focus.

Diaphragmatic Breathing (Belly Breathing)

• Place one hand on your chest and the other on your belly.
• Inhale deeply through your nose, letting your belly expand.
• Exhale slowly through your mouth, feeling your belly deflate.
• Continue for 5–10 minutes.

This technique increases oxygen flow and reduces stress.

Alternate Nostril Breathing (Nadi Shodhana)

• Close your right nostril with your thumb and inhale through the left nostril.
• Close the left nostril with your ring finger, open the right nostril, and exhale.
• Inhale through the right nostril, then switch and exhale through the left.
• Repeat for a few minutes.

This method helps balance the nervous system and promotes mental clarity.

5-5 Breathing (Equal Breathing)

• Inhale for 5 seconds.
• Exhale for 5 seconds.
• Maintain a steady rhythm for several minutes.

This simple yet powerful technique creates a sense of calm and stability.

Journaling is another great mindfulness tool. Write down your thoughts, frustrations, or a gratitude list. Sometimes, getting those emotions onto paper is all you need to feel lighter. And why does writing down your gratitude work? It shifts your focus from what worries or displeases you to the beautiful, bright, strong, joyful things you already have. And believe me - you have so much!

Move Your Body, Boost Your Mood

Exercise isn’t just for getting in shape before the big day—it’s a game-changer for mental health. When you move your body, your brain releases endorphins, those feel-good chemicals that fight stress and anxiety.

Hate the gym? No problem. Go for a long walk, dance around your living room, or try a yoga class with your fiancé. Even 20 minutes of movement can make a difference in how you feel. And if you’re feeling particularly overwhelmed, nothing beats a good boxing workout to punch out that wedding stress.

Eat for Energy and Glowing Skin

Wedding stress can lead to stress-eating, and before you know it, you’re surviving on caffeine and takeout. And like other self-care practices, quality and regular meals are long-term care for our bodies, mental health, energy levels, and well-being.

Focus on whole foods—lean proteins, healthy fats, lots of veggies, and plenty of water. Omega-3s (found in salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds) help reduce inflammation and keep your skin glowing.

Water consumption is very important. Our body is made up of approximately 70 percent water. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, headaches, and dull skin—none of which you want before your wedding and ever. Aim for at least eight glasses of qualitative water a day.

Sleep: Your Secret Wedding Glow Hack

Lack of sleep affects your immune system, skin, and energy levels. And let’s be real—no amount of concealer can truly fix chronic under-eye circles.

Struggling to sleep? Create a bedtime routine:

• Power down screens at least an hour before bed. Blue light messes with your melatonin.
• Sip on chamomile or lavender tea.
• Try a few light stretches or deep breaths before slipping under the covers.

If you’re waking up at 3 AM thinking about seating arrangements, keep a notepad by your bed. Jot it down, let it go, and deal with it tomorrow.

Don’t Forget to Have Fun

Wedding planning shouldn’t only be about logistics. Make time for fun! Plan a date night with your fiancé, go on a spontaneous road trip, or have a “wedding-free” weekend where you don’t talk about the big day at all. And in fact: wedding planning shouldn't be stressful, but only enjoyable and romantic!

Hire a wedding planner, delegate wedding tasks to friends who are willing to put their work and heart into your wedding, and life will become much, much nicer!

Remember: The wedding is one day, but your relationship is forever. Prioritize each other.

Set Boundaries and Delegate

As mentioned before, you do not have to do everything yourself. Assign tasks to trusted friends or family members, and don’t be afraid to say “no” to things that don’t align with your vision.

Wedding planning is a wild ride, but it doesn’t have to drain you. Prioritize your well-being, set boundaries, and remember why you’re doing this in the first place—to celebrate love.

At the end of the day, no one will remember if the napkins didn’t match the flowers. What they will remember is the love, laughter, and joy of the day. So take a deep breath, embrace the chaos, and enjoy the journey!

Author: Ieva Simanoviča

Photo: Elina Upmane Photography