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Stress-Free Wedding Day
By Dr. Kathy Gruver - PhD, LMT, ND in Traditional Naturopathy

Life is stressful as it is. Add in to the the pressure of the "big day" and it can be unbearable.

There are many reasons for stress around the wedding, perhaps you don't have a lot of help and are overwhelmed with the tasks that must be done. Maybe you have in-laws or relatives that are making your life unbearable. Maybe you're not a fan of being the center of attention and are nervous to make that walk down the aisle. Perhaps you are questioning your decision to take the leap or worried your drunk aunt Betty will make a spectacle of herself. Whatever is causing your stress, often it's out of your control. So, here are a few suggestions.

Breathe! Take a deep breath and pause for a moment.
The seating chart can wait, the caterer can call back. Take a deep breath and then exhale. Now, go back to your normal breathing and just observe it.  Pay attention to either the rise and fall of your chest or the air going in and out of your nostrils. Just pick one, don't switch off. Then on the next inhale, I want you to think, "I am". Do that for a few cycles. "I am". And then on the next exhale think, "at peace". And continue that. So, on the inhale you are thinking "I am" and on the exhale you are thinking "at peace". Repeat for a few minutes. If any thoughts intrude just dismiss them without judgement and go back to your mantra. Those thoughts float away like clouds on a summer day. Then open your eyes if they were closed and go back to you day. You can do this any time, any place.

Another stress busting suggestion is Rescue Remedy.
It is a combination of 5 flower essences (Bach) and is specifically formulated for acute stress. This isn't something you're going to want to take all the time, just in moments of true need. Take a few drops before you head down the aisle.

Also, make sure you're getting enough sleep.
Melatonin and tryptophan can be very helpful, but don't take tryptophan if you are on SSRI's for depression. Take your vitamins, especially the B's since they are good for stress, and magnesium also helps with mood, sleep and cramping.

And enjoy your day, but remember, it's not about those few hours, it's about the life you build after those hours. Blessings to you!!

Dr. Kathy L. Gruver PhD, LMT, RM, is a licensed and certified medical massage therapist, Reiki master, natural health consultant, birth assistant and Traditional Naturopath. Owner of Healing Circle Massage & Natural Health in Santa Barbara, Kathy is the author of  'The Alternative Medicine Cabinet' and has produced the DVD 'Therapeutic Massage at Home: Learn to Rub People the RIGHT Way!' Visit: www.TheAlternativeMedicineCabinet.com