So the big day is almost here. The one that many women fantasize about from the time they are little girls.

If only there had been a hint about just how stressful planning a wedding could be.

Mailing the invites, picking the band, finding a hall, replacing the photographer that bailed out at the last minute, and designing a seating plan and a menu that everyone – the bride, groom and their respective families — will agree upon are just some of the anxiety-filled situations that can crop up.

But brides (and grooms) don't have to let the wedding plans ruin what should be one of the happiest days of their lives. Here are five tips for de-stressing before walking down the aisle:

— Rent a movie. Stressed out brides-to-be can chill out and tune out the chaos of their upcoming nuptials by renting a light-hearted chick flick either alone or with friends. Grooms, get some buddies together and rent an action flick, gross-out comedy, or head to a sporting event.

— Exercise. Future brides and grooms can “work out” their frustrations by exercising. Exercise has been shown to ease tension and releases endorphins in the brain, resulting in a natural high. Exercise also helps brides and grooms shape up for their wedding day.

— Meditation/Yoga. The breath work of meditation and yoga is a natural stress reliever. Stress and anxiety often result in improper breathing, such as hyperventilating, which can exacerbate stressful situations. Breathing and meditation can help frazzled brides - and grooms -to-be control and quiet the noise in their minds. Additionally, the poses and stretches of yoga improve flexibility and encourage relaxation.

— Head to the Spa. Grab your bridal party and head to spa for massages and facials, rather than heading to the bar for a booze-filled bachelorette party. A night of heavy drinking can leave brides-to-be hung over and even more stressed than before. But a relaxing massage and facial can help brides feel and look good.

— Get away … with your fiancé. Take a time out with your future spouse. Head to the mountains or the beach for a weekend, or even just one night away from the harried pace of wedding planning.

Foxnews.com health editor Marrecca Fiore contributed to this report.

Click here to check out Dr. Manny's book The Check List (Harper Collins, 2007).

Dr. Manny Alvarez is the managing editor of health news at FOXNews.com, and is a regular medical contributor on the FOX News Channel. He is chairman of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Science at Hackensack University Medical Center in New Jersey. Additionally, Alvarez is Adjunct Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at New York University School of Medicine in New York City.