Pre-Performance Meditation For Singers

Welcome to this special blog episode where we're about to embark on a meditation journey that will calm your nerves and elevate your singing game. Whether you're preparing to grace the stage or share your beautiful voice with someone special, this episode is tailor-made for you. 

This week departs from our usual content because we will explore a meditation practice. This meditation isn't just any run-of-the-mill exercise; it's a potent tool to prepare you for a big performance.

Imagine you're standing backstage, heart pounding, ready to step into the spotlight. Or you may have a performance scheduled for the future, be it 30 days or half a year away. Meditation is a crucial tool for performers because it teaches us to master our minds.

When you're about to sing or in any high-pressure situation, those nerves often come from the thoughts that automatically flood our minds. Meditation empowers us to redirect those thoughts and focus our attention elsewhere, opening the door to endless possibilities.

Today's meditation employs a technique called "noting," which hones your concentration on one thing: your breath. It's a simple yet powerful practice that can work wonders for your singing journey.

But remember, simple doesn't always mean easy. I invite you to embrace whatever comes your way during this meditation. Afterward, we'll delve into how you can apply this technique to enhance your singing.

Let's Begin Our Meditation Journey

1. Find Your Comfort Zone: Find a comfortable place to sit or lie down. Choose the position that feels best for you.

2. Open Your Gaze: Begin with your eyes open. Take in your entire surroundings. Don't fixate on one object; let your gaze open up and see everything around you. Feel the ground beneath your feet or your body on the chair or bed.

3. Take Deep Breaths: Let's take a few deep breaths. Inhale through your nose and exhale through your mouth. Do this a couple of times to settle in.

4. Close Your Eyes: If you're comfortable, gently close your eyes and let your breath return to its natural rhythm. Don't force it; just let it flow naturally.

5. Awareness of Surroundings: Be aware of the sounds around you. Notice the sounds close to you (like your own breath) and those farther away (maybe some distant traffic noise). Notice and acknowledge these sounds.

6. Body Scan: Shift your focus to your body. Imagine you're scanning it from the top of your head down to your toes. Don't judge; notice. Are there areas of tension or relaxation? Pay attention to what's present in each part of your body.

7. Breath Awareness: Now, shift your focus to your breath. How does it feel today? Is it fast or slow? Do you feel it in your stomach, diaphragm, or your chest? Just observe without trying to change anything.

8. Counting Breath: Let's deepen our breath awareness by counting. Inhale, counting one. Exhale, counting two. Continue counting at your own pace, up to ten. If your mind wanders, gently label it "thinking" and bring your focus back to your breath.

9. Letting Go: Now, release that focused attention. Let your mind wander freely for a moment.

10. Return to Body and Surroundings: Gradually bring your awareness to your body's weight against the surface beneath you. Feel your feet on the ground or your body on the chair or bed. Reconnect with the sounds around you, both near and far.

11. Open Your Eyes: When you're ready, if you wish, gently open your eyes.

Welcome Back! Now, How Was That?

What we've just practiced is a way to master your focus. As we redirected our attention in this meditation, you can do the same during your singing practice or performance. Instead of dwelling on fear, self-doubt, or distractions, guide your thoughts to the story you're conveying through your singing, the emotions you share, or the sheer joy of performing.

This technique empowers you to consciously choose where your mind dwells, shifting your focus from fear to possibility. The more you practice, the better you'll be at steering your thoughts and concentration.

Remember, it's natural for the mind to wander like a playful puppy or a curious monkey. With practice, you can train your mind to stay on track. This meditation is essential for managing performance anxiety and elevating your singing to new heights

However, inner work is just one piece of the puzzle. Equally important is the practice and training of your voice. After this meditation, I invite you to join our upcoming free training training, "DISCOVER THE MOST POWERFUL VOCAL TECHNIQUE." In this training, we'll dive deeper into vocal training, providing you with the tools to hone your voice.