In the world of classical music, where precision meets passion, the breath becomes a melody that drives our playing and expresses our emotions.
As professional classical musicians, we possess the power of concentration and calmness that makes our performances unforgettable. In this article, we will focus on two key aspects: breath and centering technique.
“Breathing in, I calm my body. Breathing out, I smile. Dwelling in the present moment, I know this is a wonderful moment.”
Peace Is Every Step: The Path of Mindfulness in Everyday Life" by Thich Nhat Hanh"
Breath
The breath is the foundation of our musical expression. It is the bridge between our inner world and the music we create. Incorporating breath awareness into our practice routine can profoundly enhance our musicality and performance.
Begin by finding a comfortable seated position with your spine straight and shoulders relaxed. Close your eyes and bring your attention to your breath. Notice the natural rhythm of inhalation and exhalation. As you breathe in, feel the expansion of your abdomen and chest. As you breathe out, feel the release of tension and stress.
Practice deep, diaphragmatic breathing to fully engage your respiratory system. Inhale deeply through your nose, allowing your abdomen to rise. Exhale slowly through your mouth, feeling the gentle release of air. Focus on making each breath smooth and effortless.
Centering Technique
Centering is the practice of finding balance and stability within ourselves. It involves connecting with our core and grounding our energy to remain calm and focused amidst external distractions.
To center yourself, start by bringing your awareness to your physical center, located just below your navel. Imagine a line extending from this point down into the earth, anchoring you firmly in place. Feel the strength and stability of this connection.
Next, visualize a sphere of energy surrounding your body, extending outward in all directions. As you inhale, draw this energy inward toward your center. As you exhale, allow it to expand outward, filling the space around you. Continue this practice, focusing on the sensation of being centered and grounded.
The breath is the bridge which connects life to consciousness.”
"The Miracle of Mindfulness" by Thich Nhat Hanh
Relaxation Through Movement
In addition to breath and centering techniques, relaxation of the body is essential for maintaining overall health and well-being. Engaging in activities such as walking and hiking in the mountains can provide a much-needed break from the demands of daily life.
Taking time to connect with nature and engage in physical activity allows us to release tension and stress accumulated throughout the week. It rejuvenates our body and mind, leaving us feeling refreshed and revitalized.
The Importance of Rest
Amidst our busy schedules, it's crucial to prioritize rest and relaxation. Incorporating a day of rest into our weekly routine provides an opportunity to recharge and replenish our energy reserves. It allows us to step back from our hectic lives and reconnect with ourselves on a deeper level.
Restorative practices such as meditation, gentle yoga, or simply spending time in quiet reflection can promote relaxation and inner peace. By honoring our need for rest, we cultivate resilience and balance in our lives.
The real enemy of high performance is not stress . . . the problem is the absence of disciplined, intermittent recovery.
" The Power of Full Engagement" by Jim Loehr and Tony Schwartz
Benefits of Relaxation Techniques
By integrating breath awareness, centering technique, and relaxation practices into our daily lives, we can experience a myriad of benefits. These include reduced stress and anxiety, improved focus and concentration, enhanced creativity and musical expression, and overall greater well-being.
As professional classical musicians, cultivating a sense of calmness and centeredness is essential for performing at our best. By nurturing our breath, grounding our energy, and embracing relaxation, we empower ourselves to create music that resonates deeply with our audience and ourselves.
If you would like to read more about the breathing method I encourage you to read the book :
"Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art" by