Is Mindfulness The Best Gift For Drummers?
Over the last few months I’ve been using a guided meditation app called Headspace. It’s a great app which teaches you how to meditate and guides you through the process. I’ve found it really beneficial in helping me be more in the moment, more mindful, and less stressed… So, could this be the best gift for drummers?
So why on earth am I talking about this rather than drum stuff? Because we, drummers, are human too and as such we have to take good care of ourselves. As a result, I thought I’d start using mediation as a technique to help me develop as a person, and as a drummer too.
Since starting on this journey I’ve felt much more relaxed, and more aware of the world around me. And whilst sometimes I drop the ball, I try to incorporate meditation into my daily routine in a few different ways. So! Here are 3 ways to use meditation to benefit your drumming.
PRE COFFEE
I aim to meditate every morning for about 10 to 15 minutes before having my morning tea / coffee. Doing this sets me up for the day, framing the day ahead in a more positive way, and reminding me to “take it easy”.
PRACTICE TIME
Meditation has also taught me to relax and focus the mind, but also to be more aware of my body. In context to drumset practice, mentally-speaking, it has helped me keep mind clear and free from distraction. Likewise, from a physical perspective, I use the visualisation techniques to help me target specific technical aspects to improve my performance. This has been hugely beneficial!
PRE GIG OR PERFORMANCE
Meditating for a few minutes before a gig has also been a game-changer for me, actually. Particularly if I’m feeling stressed, or nervous, which is a common thing among musicians, so if you’re reading this and feel the same, you’re not the only one! I’ve found that a 5 or 10 minute sit-down, in a quiet place, before going on stage is a fantastic way to be less in my own head, and enjoy the experience more.
In my drum lessons I encourage and remind my students to breathe and be mindful, teaching them to be physically and mentally relaxed behind the kit. In fact, if you liked this article, check out my article about using yoga to improve your drumming!
I hope you’ve found this little post about mindfulness being the best gift for drummers entertaining, interesting or useful. As I said, meditation has helped me be more aware, less stressed, and keeping things more “light”, so maybe try it out yourself!
If you’re interested, you can check out the Headspace app. You can also visit various Buddhist centres around London who offer mediation sessions:
Thanks for reading!
Nick x
