Losing sleep will only increase your stress (and God only knows, it is not the time for your future in-laws to see you in that place).

Lack of sleep can cause loss of alertness, impaired memory, relationship stress, and possibly an effect on your appearance. That’s right, your determination to pull wedding all-nighters might be the reason you’re snapping at your soon-to-be-spouse, forgetting to call the florist, and your makeup artist is pulling out the big guns to cover those dark under-eye circles. Yikes.

 If logging less than seven hours a night is part of your wedding planning checklist, go ahead and cross it out and work these seven things into your routine instead: 

1. Give yourself a bedtime

Bedtimes aren’t just for children. In fact, our bodies are hardwired to go to sleep and wake up at the same time every day, all thanks to our body’s internal clock—the circadian rhythm. At least three weeks before your wedding day, get on a sleep schedule and stick to it. Yes, even on the weekends.

 2. Delegate!

 Let me let you in on a secret I’ve had to learn the hard way: people want to help you!

I understand there are certain tasks only you, the bride, can tackle but I guarantee there are 10 family members or friends ready to jump in and help at your call. Even if it’s something small, don’t be afraid to delegate the task to someone else. They love you! And this is a great way to include them in your big day.

3. Opt to unplug

Answering late night emails and stalking your cousin’s, best friend’s wedding on social media is only going to put you in a downward spiral. Put your phone (and laptop) down at least 30 minutes before bed each night. Not only is it bad for your mental state, but the blue-light from your technology’s screen is keeping your brain awake. Try reading a book instead.

 4. Put it to paper 

Did you know that on a regular day seven out of ten adults suffer from anxiety that disrupts their sleep? Now toss planning a wedding into the mix. Is it really that surprising your sleep may suffer during this season? I know for a fact there have been periods throughout my engagement season that my stress and anxiety levels skyrocketed. Mine came in the form of breakouts...maybe you can relate. If racing thoughts keep you tossing and turning for more than 20 minutes after hitting the hay, grab a pen and paper and write those thoughts down. 

Here’s a piece of advice from someone who has learned it the hard way: they won’t go away until you acknowledge them. Notice I didn’t say “do something about them.” Just get them out of your head and out into the world—even an exercise as simple as that can put your mind at ease.

 5. Say “yes” to saying no

In the week leading up to your big day, it is okay to say no if you become too stressed or busy to deal with whatever comes out of left field. Like I said, delegate. This goes for your honeymoon too. Don’t be afraid to say no to excursions or sightseeing every single day. Your honeymoon is about being present with your new spouse anyway! It’s okay to take naps, lay on the beach, and catch up on some rest.

 6. Breathe

For this tip, we’re going back to the basics. If you feel yourself getting overwhelmed, take a deep breath, or five. Everything is fine. You are fine (even if you don’t feel fine)! 

Deep breathing has been proven to lower heart rate, blood pressure, and anxiety. That’s because lack of oxygen can make you feel tense and nervous. Taking deep breaths helps pump that oxygen back into your body. 

7. Maintain a healthy sleep schedule

Maintaining a healthy sleep hygiene lasts a lifetime. Even after your wedding week passes, it’s important you get quality sleep consistently and that means talking to your new spouse about expectations.