Using Yoga to Reduce Wedding Stress

How one bride used yoga to relieve stress

They don't call it "your big day" for nothing. Most weddings involve a host of preparations, an endless whirlwind of conversations with loved ones and a conga line of organized activity. While it's designed to be a celebration, all those carefully scheduled details and social interactions require loads of energy and stamina.

One great stressbuster catching on as a pre-wedding trend is bridal party yoga. Before walking down the aisle, some locals are rolling out their mats, gathering their closest friends and remembering to breathe.

Dublin's Stephanie Granger arranged for a yoga-infused workout for herself and her bridal party before she wedded Aaron on July 18, 2015. She explained, "Overall well-being and physical activity is an important part of my life, so I knew I wanted it to be part of my wedding day."

Granger's good friend, Simi Botic, teaches yoga at Studio B Wellness in German Village where Granger already took barre classes; Botic offered to lead Granger and the women in her bridal party through a calm and strong wedding-day combo workout that incorporated yoga, barre and Pilates elements.

Granger held the workout at the Renaissance Columbus Downtown Hotel inside the bridal suite, which fit about six mats comfortably. The idea was a big hit for all involved, providing the chance for Granger to relax and spend time with her wedding party before the ceremony. "It was relaxing, but also fun and not too serious," she says. "It was a really great way to connect, set a positive, fun toneand get ready for the best day of my life."