You had the rehearsal, you’ve reserved the perfect venue, everything’s all set for the big day, right? It’sIt’s going to be the best day ever, so why can’t you get to sleep? First, it’s completely normal to have some jitters that keep you up the night before your wedding. However, the good news is that you don’t have to let poor sleep leave you a zombie on the big day. If you want to wake up well-rested and ready to walk down the aisle with a smile, here are five tips to get to sleep the night before tying the knot:
1. Take It Easy on the Booze
Many couples have a big party the night before getting married, but overdoing it can wreck your sleep. According to The Cleveland Clinic, alcohol before bed can lead to disruptions in your sleep cycles. On top of that, alcohol can cause nightmares and breathing problems while you sleep. Like with all things, moderation should be your guide if you choose to drink the night before your wedding.
2. Sleep on a Quality Mattress
Another key to getting the best rest before tying the knot is to choose a quality mattress. Suppose you’re sleeping in your place the night before; this won’t necessarily be an issue. The problem comes in when you have a destination wedding where you may be sleeping in a hotel or other accommodations. If you’re going to be away from home the night before your wedding, try to book a room with a bed that closely resembles your own.
For example, if you have a firm twin mattress at home, try to book a room that has the same. You may have to call around to find the best twin mattress, but it’s usually worth the extra effort since this is an essential aspect of getting the proper sleep.
3. Invite a Friend to Stay with You the Day Before
Tradition often calls for the bride and groom not to see one another on the wedding day before the ceremony. If you follow this tradition, you will likely be sleeping separately if you already live with your spouse-to-be.
This can lead to additional anxiety if you’re used to having your partner at home, so consider inviting a close friend or family member to stay with you instead. This can give you someone to talk to if you start to get a bit antsy, and it can also provide you with peace in knowing that a trusted person is at home with you.
4. Eat Right & Exercise
Eating right and exercising is part of healthy living all year long, but doing these things is even more critical when you’re facing a stressful situation. Consuming heavy, greasy food the night before your wedding can disturb your sleep, cause you to feel bloated, and may even lead to breakouts.
Instead of chowing down on unhealthy eats, consider having an early dinner with foods like salmon or avocado. These are packed with healthy omega-3 fatty acids and can lend themselves to better health and smoother skin. With better digestion comes a better chance to catch some Z’s, so consider including a probiotic in your diet as well to get good rest.
When it comes to working out, please don’t overdo it. You may be trying to shed that last pound before your wedding day, but the truth is that you’re better off spending that time relaxing. Get in a light workout that includes some cardio, and then call it a night so that you can get optimal sleep.
5. Make a List
If you find your mind racing with thoughts of “what ifs” and questions about whether you finished everything you need to get done, consider making a list. This list can include all of the things you’re concerned about, along with solutions.
Even if you can’t implement the solutions you write, making this list can help your mind wind down since you will have at least put the issue to rest for the night in your mind. Lying awake and wondering can get your heart rate up and lead to more anxiety. This cycle can build upon itself and cause you to feel tired and worn down the next day.
In the end, getting good sleep the night before your wedding comes down to allowing yourself to feel the jitters and then letting them go. This is a big moment, yes, but don’t take it or yourself too seriously. No matter what, you’re going to have a blast, marry your sweetheart and go on to experience all kinds of new things together. Congratulations!
