How to Be a Zen Bride: The Power of Essential Oils for Calm
Your wedding day is one of the most memorable days of your life—but let’s be honest, it can also be one of the most stressful. As a wedding officiant and premarital counselor, I guide couples through their engagement period. My goal is to keep couples calm, grounded and centered. Between all that planning, family dynamics, and the whirlwind of emotions, staying calm might be a challenge. I am a huge fan of intentionally shifting your environment. Enter essential oils.
These powerful little bottles of botanical goodness can help you channel your inner zen. Then you hopefully can glide through your big day with grace and ease.
Why Use Essential Oils?
Essential oils are natural plant extracts known for their therapeutic benefits. There are tons on the market and come in a range of qualities. They have various uses, so you can certainly go down the rabbit hole. Looking at all of the uses and creating a ton of blends. You could certainly use candles or scents in other ways, however I find using essential oils is more concentrated and potent.
For brides (and grooms and marriers, in general) I focus on relaxation, reducing stress, and boosting your mood. Before the ceremony, using essential oils is a gentle and effective way to create a sense of calm amidst the wedding chaos. While there are a lot of claims about the power of essential oils, there is not a ton of scientific backing. However, the power may just be in shifting focus, pausing and taking deep breaths.
That being said, here’s how essential oils can help:
Calming the Mind: Oils like lavender and chamomile are renowned for their soothing properties.
Grounding Your Emotions: Earthy scents like frankincense and cedar wood can help you feel centered and present.
When I travel to a ceremony, I bring a little kit of oils. After checking in with the vendor team, I connect with the couple (and sometimes their wedding party) to get an understanding of how they’re feeling and what they need.
Top Essential Oils for a Calm Bride
LAVENDER
Lavender is the queen of calm. When I mention essential oils, this is always the top request. It’s a popular scent in candles, lotions and shampoos. Why? It’s known to reduce anxiety, promote relaxation, and improve sleep quality.
CHAMOMILE
Known for its gentle, soothing properties, chamomile can ease nerves and promote inner peace. While we all may be more familiar with tea, it’s a great aroma, as well.
FRANKINCENSE
This ancient oil is grounding and spiritually uplifting. It may remind you of church - frankincense and myrrh anyone? In any case, it’s perfect for bringing mindfulness to your special day.
YLANG YLANG
With its exotic, floral scent, ylang-ylang is known to promote relaxation and enhance feelings of joy. I tend to use this with people who are allergic to lavender, or just prefer something new.
PEPPERMINT
Feeling a bit drained? Peppermint is invigorating and can help combat fatigue. It’s great on the back of the next on a hot day!
CEDAR WOOD
Cedar Wood has a warm, woody scent that’s perfect for grounding emotions. I usually put a drop on the finger and have people rub into the center of their chest.
Creating Your Zen Ritual
Incorporate essential oils into your pre-wedding routine for a holistic approach to staying calm:
Morning Meditation: Start your day with a grounding oil like frankincense in your diffuser.
Get the Day Going: Add a drop to your moisturizer and rub on your hands or neck
Wedding Day Roller Blend: Combine lavender, cedar wood, and chamomile in a roller bottle with a carrier oil for on-the-go calm.
Calming Mist: Mix a few drops of your favorite oil with water in a spray bottle for a refreshing facial mist.
Your wedding day is a celebration of love, joy, and connection. By incorporating essential oils into your routine, you can approach the day with a calm and centered mindset. Not only will you feel more relaxed, but your positive energy will radiate to everyone around you.
So take a deep breath, grab an essential oil, and enjoy every magical moment. You’ve got this, Zen Bride!