With all the challenges involved in planning a wedding, your priorities typically go to everything and everyone before yourself. However, even if you’re not normally a “health fanatic,” being more health-conscious during the planning stage is the best time to start!
With the guidance of naturopathic doctors, like Dr. Lisa Kopp from SunPark Spa and Wellness Centre in Calgary, their holistic approach to health can get you in top-notch physical, mental and emotional health to face everything that comes your way!
Find out how incorporating an ND (naturopathic doctor) into your routine will keep your stressors at bay!
Weddingbells: How can a naturopathic doctor help?
Naturopathic doctors, also referred to as naturopaths, help deal with many stress-related conditions, such as skin concerns, weight fluctuations and allergies. The purpose of all treatments is to treat the underlying cause of your condition and not just the symptoms. This means NDs are not only looking to get rid of your symptoms, but to strengthen and obtain your mind and body’s healthiest state, so you’re more able to cope with disease.
WB: Why is consulting with an ND especially beneficial to brides-to-be?
Planning a wedding exposes brides to high-stress situations they may or may not be accustomed to. When you are stressed, you sacrifice the strength of your immune system and your body goes in to a state of “fight or flight.” This is why many women start to break out, or gain or lose weight when under a lot of stress. If left unaddressed for too long, brides are more susceptible to catching the flu or the common cold.
WB: Wedding planning can lead to many sleepless nights. What are some practical tips to get some Zs?
For brides-to-be who are more prone to insomnia, Dr. Kopp suggests that you shut everything off one hour before bed. It’s okay to read or watch television, but the content must be non-wedding related, as this can induce more stress and keep you up. Taking hot baths in Epsom salts can also help ease the tension in your body, and the quiet time can calm your mind. But probably the most effective way to get some much-needed rest starts by cutting off caffeine at about three o’clock in the afternoon. Your body need not be filled with jumping coffee beans by the time you’re ready for bed.
WB: Due to the overload of stress, many brides-to-be experience changes in their moods. How can they keep themselves in check?
One change includes increasing your protein intake. Proteins activate the hormones responsible for perking up your mood. It’s also important to keep your boundaries up. Limit how much wedding-related work you will take on in a day, how many suggestions you will consider and how many criticisms you will take to heart. Giving yourself permission to take solid breaks from endless appointments, fittings, taste-tests and research will make you feel more in control and avoid burning out.
WB: What is your opinion about people going to health food stores and picking up supplements unadvisedly?
These individuals are what Dr. Kopp refers to as “self-healers.” It is very important to seek advice from a trained ND, as they have a level of education and practical experience that is not comparable to referrals from sales associates in health food stores. If supplements claim to be all-natural, it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s safe.
WB: How can brides-to-be find a good, trustworthy naturopath?
Start your search on the Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors (CAND) website (naturopathicassoc.ca). There you will find a list of all board-certified naturopaths in Canada. Dr. Kopp also suggests taking referrals from existing patients who can share their experiences and health benefits. The primary component to consider is your level of comfort with your naturopath. Building a trusting and respectful relationship will allow you to be more honest with your ND—allowing them to provide you with the best possible treatment.
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