If you are a bride who suffers with social anxiety disorder (SAD), being the center of attention during your wedding ceremony may be difficult. In particular, walking down the aisle with all eyes upon you is sure to trigger symptoms of anxiety - even brides who naturally enjoy the spotlight are likely to feel a little nervous on their big day. However, with a little advance planning and careful anxiety management, you should be able to enjoy this aspect of the ceremony instead of just surviving it.
Tips such as those below are best used to complement traditional therapy for social anxiety such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or medication.
- Get regular exercise. In the weeks leading up to your wedding day, it can be difficult to fit in exercise in addition to all that needs to be done. It is important, however, to stick to a regular exercise schedule to keep stress and anxiety in check. If at all possible, make sure to fit a session in the day before the wedding.
- Practice makes perfect. The purpose of the wedding rehearsal is to ensure that everything runs smoothly during the actual ceremony. Use this time to your advantage to become comfortable with the venue and gain confidence.
- Get a good night's rest. Plan for a restful sleep the night before your wedding - make sure to unwind before bed with a bubble bath, an herbal tea, or a good book.
- Don't forget to eat. With all the rushing around on the day of your wedding it can be easy to skip meals. However, it is more important now than ever to eat healthy foods containing proteins and complex carbohydrates, and to drink water. Avoid anything with sugar or caffeine - these culprits are likely to make anxiety worse.
- Breathe. In the time leading up to the start of the ceremony, take the time to practice deep breathing. Breathing in this manner encourages relaxation and keeps anxiety at bay.
- Focus on the groom. As you walk down the aisle, focus your gaze on your husband-to-be instead of the guests. If the groom is aware of your anxiety, arrange a signal beforehand that he can do to relax you, such as a wink or gesture.
Above all else, realize that your friends and family are there to celebrate with you, not judge you. If despite all your best efforts, anxiety overcomes you at the last minute, go easy on yourself. Chances are that your symptoms are not as noticeable as you think.
Sources:
Wedding Works Directory. 5 Tips for Keeping Calm Before the Ceremony. Accessed October 14, 2008.
Contemporary Bride. Chill Out! It's Your Wedding Day!. Accessed October 14, 2008.
