Our Best Tips: Five Ways to Have a Stress-Free Performance Season

May 5, 2016


A dancer backstage at YAGP finals. Photo by Kyle Froman, via Dance Magazine

Spring performance season is an exciting time, but it’s also a hectic one. Between performance prep, studying for school exams and gearing up for summer intensives, your stress levels may be higher than usual. Here are some of our best tips for taking care of yourself during this busy time.

  1. Watch out for hidden stress.
    Sometimes anxiety can creep up on you before you have a chance to figure out what’s causing it. Be aware of these sneaky sources of stress so you can avoid them.
  1. Take a social media break—the right way.
    Research has found that using social networks actively, like posting a shot of you and your fellow dancers backstage, is more beneficial. Scrolling through your Instagram feed and looking at all the fun others seem to be having might leave you feeling lonely or envious.
  1. Write it out.
    If you’re doubting yourself the night before a performance, try jotting a few thoughts in a journal. It’s been found to increase self esteem—and could even help you perform better. (Still nervous the day of? Try this helpful self-talk trick to beat stage fright).
  1. Fuel up.
    When you’re busy, it can be harder to keep up with your usual nutritious habits, but it’s important to fuel your body with foods that will give you the energy you need (hint: find the right balance between protein and carbs).
  1. Find moments to unwind.
    Even if you only have a few minutes between activities, there are quick tricks you can use to relax, so you’ll be ready to take on the rest of your day. It could be as simple as looking at photos of baby animals.

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