"Me" Time

As a busy bride-to-be, I bet you could use some extra “me time,” too. The planning process can be all consuming and sometimes between work, home and wedding, you forget to take time for you. Health magazine dedicated their March issue to the concept of “me time,” so obviously it’s something that’s in high demand for us superwomen. Here are five of my own personal favourite ways to indulge:

1. Hit the Spa. This is a no-brainer and a no-failure “me time” essential. I rarely check in for the day, but instead book myself in for two or three of my favourite treatments (facial, manicure and pedicure are my standards) and emerge feeling refreshed and recharged. If time and money are of the essence, slip in for something as simple as a manicure. You will be amazed at how just a 30-minute beauty break will make you feel shiny and new, ready to face the world again.

2. Have a cuppa. According to a recent study released by the University College London, drinking black tea can actually help you de-stress. Researchers discovered black tea cuts levels of the stress hormone cortisol circulating in the blood and found tea drinkers were able to de-stress quicker than those who drank a tea substitute. I knew there was a reason I loved the stuff so much! For me there’s nothing better than a good brew of classic English Breakfast, especially if it’s enjoyed out with friends, the proper way over traditional afternoon tea. If you’ve never done it before, now is the time. Many great hotels across the country offer tea, and it is an incredibly indulgent and girly way to tune out for a couple of hours.

3. Shop. You know that old adage: “When the going gets tough, the tough go shopping.” Retail therapy always brings me back to the zone, and it doesn’t always have to be a super high-end purchase to do the trick. A new lip gloss, a great pair of earrings, or of course, shoes always does the trick. Build pick-me-up purchases into your wedding budget—you’re going to need to spoil yourself from time to time over your planning period.

4. “Om” at home. Meditation sounds difficult and time-consuming, but it’s really not. It’s an acquired skill, but once you master it you will notice a huge difference in your mood and attitude, even if you can only take five minutes a day to do it. I’ve been practicing it lately and have found it a huge help in quieting my busy mind. To learn how-to, surf online to find a good instructional site (there are lots out there) or hit your local bookstore.

5. Take a mini-break. Across the pond, the mini-break is a way of life. My friend, who lives in London, regularly jets off for weekend jaunts to Paris, Spain, Dublin…the list goes on. In Canada, of course, it’s not quite so easy (or affordable) to skip to another country for the weekend. We do however have amazing hotels and inns from coast to coast, so why not find one close to you for a weekend away with the mister. My guy and I are heading to Langdon Hall, a country house and spa located just outside of Toronto this weekend for a day of R & R. Though we won’t be far, and we’ll only be gone from home for one night, I know it’s going to feel like we’re miles away because we’ll be completely removed from the daily grind. Lots of hotels have weekend specials expressly for this purpose—people looking to get away for the weekend. Find a great one in your area and book it—you won’t regret it, guaranteed!