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What Classical Musicians Can Do to Unwind

What Classical Musicians Can Do to Unwind
Photo by Xingchen Yan / Unsplash

Many classical music fans often turn on George Butterworth’s “By the Banks of Green Willow” or Sergei Rachmaninoff’s “Symphony No. 2” to enjoy some calm and relaxation. However, as you may know, life as a classical musician is often the opposite of relaxing and peaceful.

There is no doubt that almost every musician is fulfilling a lifelong dream, but it is a high-stress career due to exhausting and chaotic schedules and considerable psychological pressure. 

For this reason, you must set time aside to recharge your batteries to ensure you are physically and emotionally ready for the demanding schedule. Keep reading to find out what many classical musicians often do to unwind.

Ease Tension with Active Muscle Recovery

Most classical musicians often experience various aches and pains, especially when performing many nights each week. Physical tension is a major problem for many and often occurs after maintaining a stiff posture on stage for many hours at a time.

For this reason, many professional musicians often focus on active muscle recovery, to relax and unwind effectively after a performance.

Care for your muscles by:

  • Running a warm bath with Epsom salts
  • Applying a foam roller to tight upper back muscles
  • Releasing built-up tension with gentle yoga

Distract Your Mind with Fun Games

Classical musicians often struggle with the psychological pressure of performing. For example, most will fear hitting the wrong note or struggling to reach the right pitch, which could ruin an entire performance. 

Various games can provide a much-needed mental distraction, helping musicians avoid obsessing over complex sheet music or an important concert. Playing kanuuna online casino games will give your mind a well-deserved break, as you will become so absorbed in the action and excitement that you will forget all about an upcoming performance.

Exercise to Clear Your Mind

If you often feel tense, stressed, or anxious ahead of a performance, or even during it, exercise could be an ideal activity to try between dates. For instance, running or jogging, whether outdoors or on a treadmill, can be a great way to clear your mind and reduce tension in your body. 

If you hate the thought of running, look for tension-busting activities to get your mind and body moving, such as:

  • Walking
  • Golf
  • Tennis
  • Swimming
  • Tai chi
  • Boxing

20 minutes or more of physical activity might be exactly what you need to feel happier, healthier, and ready to perform in an upcoming concert.

Enjoy a Silent Hour to Reduce Auditory Fatigue

A silent hour is a popular technique with many classical musicians, as it provides their ears with a much-needed break. After spending a considerable amount of time listening to yourself and others play, a little bit of quiet time is exactly what you might need to recharge your batteries.

Auditory fatigue is real, which is why it is wise to switch off the TV, turn down the car radio, and spend some time alone to enjoy the peace and quiet. It could help you to de-stress after many weeks of rehearsals and performances, ensuring you feel ready to pick up your instrument when it’s time to do so.

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