Clik here to view.
Photo: Getty Images
Balancing work, life and wedding planning requires a lot of energy. Brides are constantly making calls, sending emails and taking appointments while still trying to live their normal lives. Add in the pressure to eat healthy and exercise and many are left thinking there just aren't enough hours in the day. It can be hard to harness enough oomph to do it all day after day, especially for brides faced with gloomy winter days.
"The main reason we feel less energetic in the winter is the lack of sunlight in many areas of the country and the shorter daylight hours," says registered dietician Julie Upton. Sunny weather drives us to get outside and be productive, while cold, dark days do the opposite. That lack of inspiration can lead brides to abandon all exercise. No exercise, according to Upton, directly correlates to poorer eating habits, which in turn is a surefire way to zap your energy.
So what's an unmotivated bride to do? Seek natural ways to up your gusto. Here are a few tips from Upton on how to muster up the strength:
Make exercise a priority.
While it may seem counterintuitive, working out actually gives you more energy. "Make yourself exercise, no matter what the weather is like," Upton says. If you can't get outside get a temporary gym membership or pop in a workout DVD in the comfort of your own home.
Eat the right foods.
The sugar in your morning doughnut is not going to rev you up for the day. "Focus on eating foods that have longer-lasting energy like whole grains eaten with protein or high-fiber foods," Upton says. Try a bowl of oatmeal with greek yogurt to start your morning off right.
See more: Stress-Free Wedding Weight-Loss Tips for the Bride Who Hates the Gym
Cool it with the caffeine.
America's favorite kick-starter can make you jittery if you get too much. More stress is one thing a bride doesn't need in her life. "Caffeine can give you a pick-me-up, but if you get too much, it will increase anxiety and will deplete your energy," Upton says. Caffeine affects everyone differently, so cut back a cup if you feel it affecting your energy levels.
Hydrate with water.
Even though it's not hot outside, your body still needs lots of water to stay hydrated. "You still need plenty of water to keep your metabolism revving," Upton says. Curious how much water you should be drinking? Use this handy calculator.
