For many brides, the wedding day is a goal date to get in shape, to lose 10 pounds, to get into that godforsaken dress. Problem is, this adds more stress to everything that you have going on already. It might be tempting to go for a crash diet right before your wedding day but they don’t always work and won’t leave you healthy, energized and happy for your wedding date. The only way to look and feel great is to give your body what it needs: sleep, healthy food, a good work and some zen. Here are some tips to help kick start your wellness plan and get you into tip-top shape for your wedding

Eat Well!

[Photo Courtesy of Marthastewart.com]

When you’re busy the easiest thing to do is to grab whatever you have around or to get take-out but the truth of that matter is, no matter how hard you work out after a bad meal, negative effects of bad food will still make you feel awful. So eat better! Prep a lot of healthy foods and snacks in one go: chop up veggies and fruits, and surround yourself with wholesome snacks so that the healthy option is there when you get hungry. Lots of things, such as rice and quinoa, can be kept for a long time so make batches in advance for the week ahead.

Move!

[Photo Courtesy of Foxy and Fierce]

Let’s face it, the gym is no fun for anyone and people go for motives outside of just being at the gym but getting even one or two good work outs a week can do wonders for the body and mind. Or join an active class like dance, kickboxing or yoga – having others there will motivate you to be active. On off days though, do what you can to be active: take the stairs, walk if you have the option, stand on public transportation, get up and stretch every hour. Studies show that even fidgeting gives a gentle boost to metabolism.

The Seven Minute Workout

[Photo Courtesy of Health.com]

So you really don’t have the time to join classes, go for long walks or work out at the gym – I think we can all understand that. There’s no need to fret because an article in the American College of Sports Medicine’s Health & Fitness Journal that came out May/June of this year suggests that all you need is seven minutes. In a routine that combines aerobic and resistance training, you don’t need any special equipment to enjoy the benefits of an intense workout. Check out this article on People.com for a full explanation.

Getting healthy is a long-term process so don’t expect results right away. The ultimate goal is to be healthier but if it gets you into that dress, so much the better!

Dawn Lo is a contributing writer to the Bridal Guide.