We have been discussing in class the factors involved in delivering a performance to the best of your abilities whilst also feeling comfortable and enjoying the experience. Stress or nervousness will impact a performance in a variety of ways through a loss of focus, negative inner dialogue and impaired coordination. I have certainly been aware of these symptoms, sometimes more than others. We have been looking at some of the ways in which to tackle this problem.
There are many techniques that can help to tackle performance anxiety including progressive muscle relaxation, guided imagery, deep breathing exercises and systematic desensitisation (Mcquade, 2009). I have found a route which works best for me, but unfortunately it is not always possible to do before a performance. I started listening to self hypnosis tapes and some of these focus on all all of the aforementioned techniques. Studies show that this only works for around 1 in 8 people, however I am very aware of being in a noticeably relaxed state after listening (Kenny, 2011). It seems to allow me to empty mind of the negative thoughts or consequences of my performance for a brief period of time, maybe an hour. The problem is that you don't always have time to take half an hour out before your performance to listen to one of the tapes. I think I will try to make the this happen wherever possible though as I feel a relaxed state before going on stage would lead to me giving my best performance.
There are many techniques that can help to tackle performance anxiety including progressive muscle relaxation, guided imagery, deep breathing exercises and systematic desensitisation (Mcquade, 2009). I have found a route which works best for me, but unfortunately it is not always possible to do before a performance. I started listening to self hypnosis tapes and some of these focus on all all of the aforementioned techniques. Studies show that this only works for around 1 in 8 people, however I am very aware of being in a noticeably relaxed state after listening (Kenny, 2011). It seems to allow me to empty mind of the negative thoughts or consequences of my performance for a brief period of time, maybe an hour. The problem is that you don't always have time to take half an hour out before your performance to listen to one of the tapes. I think I will try to make the this happen wherever possible though as I feel a relaxed state before going on stage would lead to me giving my best performance.