A few weeks ago in this physiology of performance class I observe, the instructor (whose background is in sports medicine) asked us what we do to gear up for a performance. My friend M and I talked about how this was a little at odds with our experience. Our pre-performance routines are all about gearing down.

Finding ways to be calm and rested so we can be ready to house the energy that happens during performance.

When it comes to preparing for a performance, I realized I do have a routine, I know what works for me. But …

I haven’t quite figured out how to regain my rhythm after big events. Take the the last couple of weeks. I was riding high from the Dakota show and then …

It was over.

…

And I felt clumsy and awkward, out of step.

Not quite able to pick up where I’d left off with the other projects and work in my life.

My mom kindly and gently reminded me that I was tired. (Thanks, Mom. *smile*) That this phenomenon happens (to me) after exciting new steps.

It’s the cool-down.
…

Cooldown [kool-doun]
n.  A period following strenuous physical activity in which stretching or milder exercise is performed to allow the body gradually to return to normal.

…
For me, the cooldown feels stagnant and awkward. Itchy. Restless. After running hard, it takes me a while to get used to walking again. (We’re talking hypothetical running here, but you get my point. *wink*)

My friend Judi says she sees it with her students and their recitals. They work and work to get their voices ready for the big event. But Judi claims that after the big event, it’s just as important to step the voice back down. Don’t just stop practicing 2 – 3 (or  5 – 6) hours a day cold turkey because the recital’s over. The voice doesn’t like it.

Neither do I apparently.
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Cycles and waves (and new steps!) are part of this new life I’m living. Yes, I had cycles at the magazine. Every two months, we put out an issue. But the parts of the process, from start to finish — and AFTER finish — became routine, the basic activities were the same and I found a rhythm.

With my singing life, I haven’t quite found the pocket. I’ve figured out the front end but haven’t quite worked out all the kinks of the cooldown.

Fortunately, I seem to be getting plenty of opportunities to practice. *smile*

What about you? How do you regroup?
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Reminder: Songtaneous is THIS Saturday at 2pm. Visit the Events page for more info.