aolk16
- Mar 29
- 2 min read

Taking Care of You, Healthy Body & Mind for Performers

Changing temperatures can be tough for performers. The cold air puts pressure on the body increasing the risk of injury for dancers. Singers struggle to keep viruses and strain from the vocal chords and all performers need to ensure they get enough rest to be at their best.

Sleep

Getting enough rest is the foundation for a healthy body and mind. By sleep, we mean proper ZZZs. Did you know there are stages of sleep?

STAGE 1: A light, sleep that doesn’t last very long. You may relax and dream, but also twitch as you transition into stage 2.

STAGE 2: Breathing and heart rate slows and muscles relax. Body temperature lowers and brain waves are less active.

STAGE 3: You enter deep sleep, and stage 4 is the deepest. Breathing, heart rate, body temperature, and brain waves reach their lowest levels. Muscles are extremely relaxed and you’re difficult to rouse.

STAGE 4: This is known as the healing stage, when tissue growth and repair take place, important hormones are released to do their jobs, and cellular energy is restored.

BENEFITS OF SLEEP:

Reduces Risk of Disease
Prevents Accidents
Better Memory & Concentration
Reduces Anxiety & Depression.
Improves Immune System
Controls Weight
Increased Energy
Healthier Heart

Hydrate

Did you know if you are feeling thirsty that could be a sign that you're dehydrated. To avoid dehydration you should be drinking throughout the day. Water is best. Try to avoid caffeinated drinks such as coffee and tea. Sports drinks also contain caffeine along with a high sugar content. If you struggle drinking water, try sparkling water or add a small amount of juice/cordial to flavour it slightly. Whatever works for you. The benefits are well worth it.

If you use your voice for acting or singing hydration will keep the vocal chords lubricated reducing the risk of damage or a build up of mucus. For dancers water keeps muscles supple to prevent injury. Of course water provides the energy needed to get through a class!

BENEFITS OF WATER:

Regulates Weight
Re-energises
Improves Circulation
Improved Concentration
Better Skin
Flushes Out Toxins
Healthy Hair
Lubricated Vocal Chords & Joints

Eat Well

If you are seriously considering a career in the performing arts you may want to rethink your eating habits. Long days, late nights and often little access to a kitchen mean you have to to pre-prep food and enjoy fruit, vegetables and nuts. These will give you the nutrients and energy needed to get through rehearsals and performances. Want to know what other celebrities eat?