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Avoid Wedding Stress With Extra Planning
By Amy Woolfolk
MISSISSIPPI STATE -- Even though preparing for a wedding is usually a stressful time for the bride and groom, stress does not have to take control. By staying organized and healthy a couple can overcome stress and have a joyful wedding.
Linda Patterson, extension health specialist at Mississippi State University, said stress is created by the mind and couples should watch their thoughts.
"If a couple thinks negatively about things that might happen, they are more likely to feel stressed," Patterson said. "Be prepared for a variety of possibilities but keep thoughts positive."
Patterson said the biggest cause of stress for couples is high expectations. Couples have to realize everything cannot be perfect and set their expectations accordingly.
To keep expectations and stress in check, Patterson reminded couples that less can be more.
"Often simplicity in a wedding ceremony is much more beautiful than having too much," the specialist said.
She also urged couples to know what they like and choose those things. The couple has the final say in all wedding-related decisions.
Patterson said one way to handle stress is to stay organized while planning. Writing everything down in a special wedding notebook is a good idea.
Time management is another way to handle stress, Patterson said.
"Couples who begin planning early and pace themselves should be able to avoid last minute chaos," she said.
The physical health of the couple is also related to their stress level. Patterson said couples should ask themselves if they could be taking better care of themselves. Eating right and taking time to rest can improve energy levels.
The specialist said exercise is an excellent way to manage and relieve stress. Setting aside time to play and laugh also can be very healthy, as can reserving personal quiet time.
Patterson reminded couples they cannot control the actions and thoughts of the people around them.
"Couples cannot worry about other people when it comes to their wedding," Patterson said. "If they just keep themselves organized and healthy, they can have a less stressful and more joyful wedding to remember."
