Yoga for performers

Yoga for performers 

Yoga is a useful coping stratgey, I have never done Yoga myself and this is something I would consider trying as I do pilates. ‘Dr. Gibbs suggests low-impact aerobic activity like riding a stationary bike, walking, or going for an easy jog one to three times a week. "If I have a stressed-out dancer, I recommend exercise," he says. "It releases endorphins, and reduces injury and cholesterol. It's the number one treatment for depression and anxiety.’ (Raminsky p26 2009) 

Benefits of Yoga for Dancers 'YogaWiz' (Online)  

• Balance
• Clarity of the Mind
• Confidence
• Flexibility
• Improved Circulation
• Improved Hip Mobility/Flexibility
• Improved Lung Capacity
• Posture Improvement
• Purification of the Body
• Stamina
• Strength/Muscle Toning
• Stress Relief

Marc Woodford believes that, 'ALL types of yoga practice are meant to bring integration, simplicity, liberated strength and supported freedom to both body, mind and soul' (online) He offers Yoga for dancers and athletes and believes Yoga can help to relax the mind. 

'Between classes, rehearsals, and performances, it’s all too easy to become overworked and overwhelmed. Yoga is beneficial in its promotion not of building perfect technique, as is standard in the dance world, but on creating peace of mind and a stress free environment for the student. Working through the poses at your own pace gives you the time you need to unwind from the stress of the stage, while still providing immense physical benefits.' Yoga for dancers (Online) 

This quote goes to show that Yoga is not only a good coping strategy to help relax the mind and to de-stress from the pressures of the performing arts industry but it also has physical benefits. 

Do you do Yoga? Does it help you relax and destress? Do you find it a good coping strategy? Feel free to comment! 

Bibliography 

Benefits of Yoga poses for dancers. YogaWiz. Online. Available at: http://www.yogawiz.com/health-issues-and-yoga/benefits-of-yoga-for-dancers.html#continued ( accessed 4th January 2015)

isport. Yoga for Dancers. Online. Available at: http://ballet.isport.com/ballet-guides/yoga-for-dancers (accessed 4th January 2015) 

Raminsky (p26  June 2009) Your Body 

Woolford Marc. Yoga with Marc. Online. Available at: http://www.yogawithmarc.com/yogafordancers.html (accessed 4th January 2015)