How to Get Rid of Wedding Day Jitters

The church is booked, the guests are invited, the menu is selected but suddenly you have this nagging feeling. This sort of unsettling, "what the heck am I doing" thought that never quite subsides. Call it cold feet or nerves, you have the wedding day jitters. Here are a few steps on how to get rid of them!

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

1. Diagnose the problem. This is the toughest step of all because it requires that you be 100 percent honest with yourself. What is bothering you? Get to the root of the problem. Remember this step isn't about assigning blame to anyone. Ask yourself the question and insist that you be honest with yourself. Many times we allow ourselves to make excuses or deny what is truly bothering us. The truth is that nagging feeling is there for a reason. What is it telling you?
2. Downsize. For many people, wedding day jitters occur because they are afraid to be in front of a large number of people. Unless your are in the public eye or have a job that requires it, this isn't something you are used to dealing with. If the thought of 200 guests is just mortifying, then downsize. Only invite family and friends whom you'll be truly comfortable in front of while you are getting married.
3. Visualize. This is a technique that is classic in business. Visualize success every moment and you will achieve it. Take the time to visualize the day. Don't place expectations on it, but just visualize it as if you were going through each step. As you do so, calmly imagine each moment. This will give your mind a mental preparation for the day itself. Much like driving to a place for the second time is easier than the first, the wedding day itself will be easier because your mind will feel as if you've already been through it.
4. Talk to your partner. Some jitters are less about the overall experience and have more to do with the coming marriage itself. If your answer to the question in step 1 involved being unsure about certain aspects of your marriage, then you must speak with your partner about it. They may be having the same thoughts, worries or fears. The worst thing you can do is bury it, as suppressed emotions fester and become frustrated emotions which eventually turn to anger. Also, communication is key for every marriage. If you can't communicate some jitters (which are perfectly normal) then maybe this isn't the person for you. Better to back out now, then to go down the road of marriage and have it end badly later.
5. Speak with a therapist. If there is truly something that you cannot disclose to your future spouse, or you need to know how to do it, talk with a professional. They will get into the specifics of your issue and give you advice based on your conversation. There is never any shame in talking to a pro— they want to help and it's their job to so.
6. Breathe! There are some things you can do in the final moments before walking down the aisle. These include breathing, counting to ten and closing your eyes. All of these physical things are meant to calm your nerves in any stressful situation. Also sometimes a half-glass of wine is just the trick!
7. Have fun! Remember, your wedding day is a celebration of you and partner's love. It shouldn't be about stress. Let the little things fall by the wayside and enjoy the person with whom you are going to spend the rest of your life!

Tips & Warnings

• Always remember to eat and drink plenty of water. Do not starve or dehydrate yourself as this can only add to the anxiety if your body is not properly cared for.