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This is it… The final countdown to your big day. And along with settling those last few details — figuring out where to seat your eccentric Uncle Carl, firming up the flowers — you’re likely also making one last push to make sure the body that will be wearing that gorgeous white gown looks as good as it possibly can. You and nearly every other woman with an engagement ring on her finger. In fact, research shows that an overwhelming 91 percent of brides-to-be are anxious about their weight. But from here on out, you won’t have to be!
Whether you want to drop those last few pounds or look more toned — or both — we’ve got a month’s worth of daily tips (none of which require starving yourself or working out nonstop!) that will help you feel stunning and confident when you walk down that aisle. You know where to send the thank-you card. Let’s get started!
Day 19: Do at Least One Thing a Day That Relieves Stress
It’s not exactly breaking news that being stressed can lead to overeating — and a penchant for reaching for high-cal, high-fat foods. But did you know that it can slow your metabolism, too? Talk about a double whammy.
See More: 10 Signs You’re Way Too Stressed About Wedding Planning
A study at Ohio State University found that frazzled people burned 104 fewer calories each day than their more relaxed counterparts. How? The researchers believe that stress may promote insulin resistance which, in turn, promotes fat storage.
Over the course of a year, those calories could add up to an 11-pound weight gain. Don’t undo your hard work by failing to take time to decompress, as tempting as it is to push on, given all you need to accomplish in the next 11 days.
Do something — anything you find relaxing — every day. Read a magazine, call a friend, get a massage, or watch a movie that really makes you laugh. The good news is that even as little as 10 minutes can be enough to lower stress levels. And you’ll go into your wedding day happier and more chill.
Just getting started on our 30 Day Wedding Shape-Up? Kick off your journey from Day One, here.