Scheduling conflicts, catering glitches, wardrobe malfunctions, fussy bridal parties - the list of stressors is endless and quite frankly, you’ve had it. If that sounds like you, then it’s time for an intervention. And this one’s for your health…to retain your sanity… it’s unabashed self-preservation if you really want to get down to it! So take a step back and choose one of the following ways to gain control and feel better as you inch closer to your wedding day. And the fact that you could look gorgeous and fit on the day of your wedding is just an added bonus!

Yoga for a calm, rejuvenated you

Taking the world by storm is the practice of yoga. Traditionally, the practice involved breathing exercises, stretching and improving muscle strength through structured poses and meditation. Think that's too slow for you? Disregard all notions of it being a passive fitness routine as nowadays you can even find Dance Yoga and Cardio Yoga classes if you want a way to work off all that stress. There’s a huge variety of yoga options that you can choose from depending on the level of activity you desire and your personal level of fitness.

The biggest benefit of yoga is its emphasis on meditation and calming a stressed mind. You will learn techniques and methods to stay calm and work your way through myriad problems by valuing yourself and your body. Hmm... a series of classes that helps you feel good, get your body in shape and ease those nerves before the wedding. Sounds like a must-do! 

Pilates for stress relief

Another huge, popular favourite form of exercise the world over is Pilates. The whole concept builds on the idea that the body and mind work together for optimal functioning. Simply out, Joseph Pilates, the creator of this fitness system believed that you couldn’t focus on the body without paying attention to the mind. So this method teaches breathing techniques, control, fluid, smooth motion and concentration. Various levels are offered at most venues and it is known for being a soothing, relaxing activity. The fitness regimen builds balance and strengthens your core - just perfect for all that running around during your wedding!

Dance away your blues

Do we really need to explain this one? To borrow from Shiamak Davar’s infamous troupe, if you have feet… you can dance! Choose from a huge, wide range of options like jazz and contemporary dance or the racy, fun styling of salsa, or go off the beaten path and try some Egyptian belly dancing! And if you can’t resist the urge to shake your booty, bollywood style, then you know which class is just right for you! Think Bollywood and live it up as the naughty item girl, traditional rustic heroine or throw it all together for a fun-filled dance session! And if you end up chasing your groom-to-be around trees, well... don’t say we didn’t warn you!

Get sporty! 

Head out to the basketball court and throw down a few hoops. Or step out onto the street for a quick run around the block. Play tennis or go swimming, there’s a lot you can do in the sporting area to rejuvenate yourself. Most community centres offer a wide selection of sporting activities that you can choose from at a very reasonable cost. Apart from the community hubs, you can also find independent organizations and associations that offer training support and more information.

Hit the gym

If all else fails, help yourself by signing up at your local gym. Identify your health requirements and enlist a personal trainer for help. Getting a friend or even your partner to come along is a great way to stick to this plan. And if you and your partner choose to go together, identify this time as a wedding-discussion-free zone! Work out, have fun and take a breather from all that wedding planning.

Off the beaten track

Looking for something that's a tad different from the fitness and stress busters listed above? Why not look into Capoiera - a traditional Brazilian martial art that combines elements of dance, music and rhythm. Or look for kick-boxing which is a great cardio workout and is also great to work off all that pent-up aggression!