As the wedding season gets into full swing, many UK brides and grooms face sleepless nights as the stress of the big day sets in.
Despite being a joyous occasion, weddings are on the list for top most stressful life events.
Organising a wedding can take its toll on couples which often leads to restless nights worrying about the event. It can be a big financial strain on people combined with the anxiety of making sure everything is perfect and keeping friends and family happy.
Here are some top tips on how to get a good night’s sleep for those who are about to get hitched:
The countdown…
In the run up to your wedding day ensure you have at least six-and-a-half hours’ sleep each night. Research has shown that people who have less sleep are more prone to irritability – not a great trait for a blushing bride!
Plus lack of sleep can also ruin diets and knock our immune system for six: exhausted people are more likely to turn to “junk” food for a quick energy fix – not good if you can’t fit into your dress; and tired bodies are more likely to pick up bugs and infections. Who wants to be saying ‘I do’ to a snotty, sickly bride?!
Deal with worries – such as the flowers arriving or favours being made on time – by making a list of things to be tackled the next day. And if you really can’t sleep, don’t lie there worrying about it. Get up and do something you find relaxing until you feel sleepy again – then go back to bed.
The night before…
Getting a good night’s kip is essential for the budding bride-to-be. Not only does it make you look better – what every bride wants – but it puts you in the right frame of mind – and a girl needs to have a clear head if she wants to enjoy her special day!
If you’re spending the night in a hotel room or an unfamiliar environment, do your best to anticipate what sort of conditions you’ll be sleeping in ahead of time, then plan or pack accordingly. You might not be able to entirely eliminate sleep disturbances such as noise and bright lights, but being well-prepared can help you combat them (think ear plugs and eye masks). Comfort is paramount but you can’t exactly bring your bed and bedding along. You can, however, bring your pillow.
If you’re stressing out that everything won’t go to plan or just plain too excited, try to relax and insist on some ‘me time’. Have a warm bath, listen to some quiet music, and do some yoga – all help to relax both the mind and body.
Switch off your phone, iPad etc and avoid using social networks. As much as people want to wish you a happy wedding day on Facebook or Twitter, or by texting/emailing, using technology before bed is proven to hinder sleep. Instead read a book, concentrate on relaxing and enjoy your last night of freedom.
As tempting as it might be, don’t end up having a second hen night on wedding-eve. Go easy on the alcohol and get an early night – remember it’s called beauty sleep for a reason! You certainly don’t want to be turning up with bloodshot eyes and black shadows.
Remember although make-up can help cover up some of the signs of tiredness nothing beats a good night’s sleep, and a smile to keep you looking your best on your big day!