Your Wellbeing During An Event

A wonderful wedding, a stormy night, and a ship that rocked. That was my Friday and Saturday. A family gathering on a docked ship to celebrate a wedding on Friday was amazing. The ship was beautiful, fancy and a very different location for a wedding. Whilst the storm raged on outside, the fun and partying was going on inside.

These big events bring people together with lots of chitter chatter, hugging and stories galore.

Being with friends and family is great for making social connections and being part of a group. Connecting with people helps you feel a sense of belonging. At big events there are always many conversations and things happening at once and the next time you meet you can recall the fun happy times at the wedding or the funny or lovely stories from the party. Memories are made and fun times celebrating make you feel good.

However, whilst everyone is having a great time, do you ever feel like you need a breather or want a moment for your own mental health? If so, here are 5 ideas to help your wellbeing whether you are at a family wedding or a social gathering, they are all quick and simple so give them a go to see what helps.

1. Pause – whether you are the bride, groom or a guest, sometimes it can be a pretty overwhelming day and evening. Take a moment, a heartbeat to reset and be calm. Emotions are high on these days and it can be difficult to take it all in. If you are having a conversation and feel it is too much or you don’t know what to respond. Just stop, and give yourself a few seconds to answer.
2. Breathe – Whilst you are pausing, don’t forget to breathe. We often find we hold our breaths when we are in the middle of a big event or feel overwhelmed. Take five slow long deep breaths to recentre yourself and feel good. No matter what is happening throughout your day, breathe and focus on this.
3. Observe – To help you if you are feeling overwhelmed, look around you and notice what you see, hear, smell, feel and taste. For example if you are sitting at the table waiting to make your speech, breathe, look at the bride and how she looks, what can you hear? What music is playing? Can you hear someone talking? What about the feel of the tablecloth or the seat you are sitting on? You might have a beautiful vase on your table, what does it feel like? Is it glass or metal? Does it feel smooth or rough? Take your time. What can you smell? Do you notice your perfume or someone else’s, perhaps you smell the food being cooked or someone’s drink. Taste – do you have a drink you can have a sip of? Is it water or is it fizzy, alcoholic or non alcoholic.
4. Moments to yourself – you might be the belle of the ball or the man with the mates and you love being in the thick of it or you may be the opposite and really feel like it is all too much. Taking a moment to be on your own can really help. Using the techniques above, find a spot to just be on your own. The bathroom is always a good one or if you are staying at the venue then head to your room and have a 5-15 minute moment. You might be lucky enough to be in the country or in a quiet area so can head outside and feel the breeze or warmth of the day on your skin.
5. Smile – Don’t forget to smile, not only for all the photos but for yourself too. Smile, relax and enjoy yourself. A smile can go a long way, from feeling emotional to turning happy tears into a laugh or smiling at someone who is across the room. Have the best day and take the opportunity to put a smile on and if you aren’t feeling great, try it, it is a good pick me up.

Now the celebrations are over and we go back to getting things organised for the week ahead, take the tips above with you. They aren’t only helpful for celebrations, you can use them at work (minus the alcohol). You will likely have some of your own tools you use in times of need to give your wellbeing a boost.

Thank you for reading. Look after you and have a great week.

Love Emma xx