Workshop Journal-Turning Nerves into Positive Energy
The focus of today's workshop with Glow Girls was on comprehending anxieties and learning how to turn them into good energy that we can use for performances, particularly dancing. Realising that nerves are something to deal with rather than something to get rid of was comforting. We began by discussing the appearance of nerves in the body. For me, it generally manifests as a rapid heartbeat, trembling hands, and a constricted chest. We reinterpreted such feelings as indicators that the body is preparing to perform rather than as an issue. Already, that mental adjustment had an impact; it felt more like readiness than terror. Box breathing was one of the key methods we learnt. Inhale for four counts, hold for four, exhale for four, then hold once more for four. It felt a little strange at first, but after a few rounds, I could feel my body slowing down. My shoulders lowered, and I started to think more clearly. In the midst of tension, it was like making a pause button.
Additionally, we engaged in five-finger breathing, which seemed more grounded and participatory. I was able to stop my thoughts from racing by focusing on something tactile by tracing up and down each finger while breathing in and out. I like how easy it was, I could do it backstage without attracting any notice. Positive affirmations played a significant role in the class. We discussed how our thoughts might either calm us down or exacerbate our anxiety. We tried saying things like "I am prepared" and "I am confident" instead of thinking, "I am going to mess up." At first, it was a little odd to say things out, but as you repeated them, they began to seem more plausible. We also looked at using movement as a stress-relieving strategy. We employed little movements, such as shaking our arms, softly bouncing, or flowing through basic dance gestures, instead of remaining still and allowing the energy to grow. This assisted in transforming that anxious energy into something tangible and practical. It helped me recognise that movement is more than simply a performance; it can also be used as a preparation tool.Finally, we discussed pressure points as a way to reduce stress. Some of the tension was released by applying light pressure to certain places, such as the hands. The soothing influence of something so modest was unexpected.
Overall, the workshop gave me practical tools I can actually use before performing and in everyday life when i feel nervous or anxious. For me, the most important lesson is that anxieties are a source of energy rather than an enemy. Instead of allowing them to dominate me, I can control them with the correct strategies. I’m leaving feeling more confident, more prepared, and more informed of how to empower myself both mentally and physically before stepping onto the stage.
