First dates can feel really exciting… but also pretty nerve wrecking. Butterflies in the tummy and enough nervous energy to boil a kettle (or five) before you even leave the door.
It’s natural to be a bit fearful of the unknown – we are human after all – but there are some of the things we can do to ease our frayed nerves pre-date. Take our hand, breathe in and exhale sloooowly. We’re right there with you…
Burn it off with some exercise: Adrenaline is fabulous if you are running 100-mtre sprint (or thousands of years ago, fighting off a wild animal), however it’s not so good to feel that fight or flight mechanism kick in before a date. The best thing you can do is to try and burn off some energy with some gentle exercise, like a jog or swim, beforehand. Also practice deep breathing because this will lower your heart rate and blood pressure. And if all else fails, try laughing as this will stop those pesky hormones in their tracks.
Call you best mate: Having a chat with your nearest and dearest and telling them that you are feeling nervous can work wonders. Talking through the specifics about what is making you so worried can put your fears into perspective, while focusing on someone else can be a great distraction.
Familiarise yourself with your date: Try to get to know as much about your date as possible before you meet, so you have lots of conversation topics. Make a list of things you want to know about him or her to ask. You’ll appear much more self-confident if you come well prepared.
Take your time: Give yourself plenty of time to get ready. Take a long, hot shower or bath. Play your favourite music and when picking an outfit, choose something that you love – being comfortable is a big part of feeling confident.
Let go of expectations: Be open to the dating experience. Look at your date as an adventure where anything could happen. By not trying to control the outcome of the date, you will appear more easy-going and open.
Remember, you’re choosing too: While you might be worried about your date liking you, remember you are the one in control and you’re in the position of doing the choosing as well. You have nothing to prove to anyone.
Good luck!
Do you have any pre-date rituals that make you feel better? Tell us @lovestruck
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