When it comes to posture, your body keeps the score. I’m David, a remedial massage therapist and I practice from Bowden and Hope Valley. I’m also a musician – I’ve played the trombone since 1992.
Have you heard your teacher talk to you about posture? There’s a few good reasons.
· Good posture reduces stress and pain in your body
· Posture reflects your confidence and
· Good posture improves efficiency
This is true for all musicians. I noticed that as my frame grew … and so did my capabilities in music that my posture changed too. As my shoulders broadened (from a rounded position), my spin straightened (from a hunched position), not only did I look confident as a performer, but I felt confident too and this changed my whole expression of music.
Posture is vital to great efficiency. Our spine – the hub of the central nervous system – the controller of all thought, function and action – loves to be in a neutral position. That is with natural curves through the neck shoulders and lower back. It loves the shoulders neutral position slightly dropped and back – opening the top of the lungs. Good posture allows your body to function at its optimum. This includes drawing of breath – vital if you play a wind instrument or combine vocals with your performance.
I reflect back on the Peanuts cartoon Schroeder hunched over his piano and I can’t help but think about his poor nervous system under pressure. What will his back look like when he’s in his 20’s? Will he end up looking like the infamous David Helfgott – with a distinct hunch?
Next time your teacher talks to you about your posture – think of the potential that you can reach if your spine is where it loves to be – serving you to the best of its ability and fueling your creative drive.
If you are struggling with neck, back or shoulder pain, I’d love to help you. Give me a call.
David Clayton is a remedial massage therapist. He has an interest in supporting people to recover from stress, anxiety and trauma using compassionate and nurturing touch. Ph. 0424 740 243
www.myomasters.com.au
