My life as an Orlando and Central Florida wedding planner has taught me many things:

I know hurricane clauses in contracts like the back of my hand.

One sip can tell me if a certain wine is too bold or just right for a large guest list.

And…

I’ve seen how self-care is of utmost importance when it comes to warding off sickness

for a wedding and honeymoon.

But what’s the big deal with stress and self-care?

Stress is one of, if not thee, leading cause of sickness (it’s reported that up to 90% of primary care doctor visits are stress-related).  

And planning a wedding?  Well, that can be a bit stressful!

Stress can lower immunity making it hard to ward off even the tiniest of bugs and easy to come down with something unwanted.  

And not only does this happen while you are stressed, but when high cortisol and adrenaline levels (we’re looking at you wedding day) finally start to calm, this release can cause everything from headaches to fatigue (not fun for your honeymoon).

Throughout my career I’ve witnessed this so I’m sharing 5 simple ways you can manage stress and support your immune system while planning and enjoying a spectacular day!

1. Increase nutrients.

A healthy diet should be high on your list for self-care.  

To keep your adrenal glands functioning properly (rather than going haywire with the release of cortisol), reduce sugar and alcohol intake, eat protein at every meal, and eat a diet of whole, clean, fiber-filled foods when possible.

Also, omega 3 fatty acids (from cold water fish, eggs, and flax seeds) and antioxidants (from bright produce, matcha, and dark chocolate) can lower inflammation from stress.

2. Move.

We know you are probably doing everything you can to be in tip-top shape for that wedding attire, but be careful of going overboard.

In between intense workouts opt for active rest movement such as yoga, walking, or swimming.  

Too much intensity too often can actually cause more stress on the body and can lead to weight gain from too much cortisol release (darn, that extra cortisol!).

3. Lean on supplements.

If you can’t seem to calm your mind, are having trouble sleeping, and/or are just feeling exhausted and moody, don’t be afraid to reach for an herbal supplement to help.

While we always recommend discussing with your doctor prior to taking, we have found adaptogen herbs (such as ashwagandha, rhodiola, and holy basil), CBD, lavender oil, and GABA all to be helpful stress management tools.

We also like immune boosting supplement blends that include such herbs as echinacea, zinc, vitamin C, and vitamin B6.

4. Get out of wedding planning mode.

Before you know it, wedding planning can be all consuming.  It’s vital to take breaks to clear your mind.

Meditate daily, spend an afternoon in nature, plan a date night where you don’t talk about the wedding, go see a movie, or just soak in an epsom salt bath.  Your life is more than your wedding – so enjoy it!

5. Hire a wedding planner.

Sure, I am a wedding planner so obviously I know the value in the service, but seriously speaking, a planner can take so much stress off those hunched up shoulders and help reduce immune weakening stress.

Want to learn more about how we can help?

Our team specializes in wedding design, venue selection, vendor team creation, planning, and day of coordination for Orlando and Central Florida weddings and we are here for you.

Please call me at (407) 365-4729 or email me at michele@michelebutlerevents.com to talk about what you envision and need for your special day to be healthy and happy!