Navigating the challenges of life as a musician can be demanding, both mentally and physically. To support members, the Musicians' Union (MU) offers a range of resources designed to improve wellbeing, including breath work, and strategies for addressing negative self-talk..

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Breathing

The MU collaborates with professional musician and Feldenkrais teacher, Emma Alter, who runs sessions every Friday for MU members looking at solutions for common areas of discomfort, and finding greater ease. 

The Feldenkrais Method is based on sound principles of neuroplasticity, physics and physiology, optimising brain connections with our skeleton, muscles and soft tissues. Emma explains, "Feldenkrais is about improving action: and action is not movement alone. It’s always combined with three other strands: sensation, emotion and thought."

Here are some of the articles available through the MU that focussing on using Feldenkrais Breathing Exercises to cope with anxiety and general wellbeing: 

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You may also like Emma's article, 'Breathing For Calm: A Short Breath Control Exercise From Feldenkrais Expert Emma Alter' 

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Self Talk

That "inner voice" lots of us have can be our best friend or, as is often the case, our worst enemy. Many musicians struggle with self-criticism, which can significantly impact self-worth, anxiety levels, and overall wellbeing.

Emma Alter offers practical insights on how to challenge negative self-talk and cultivate a healthier mindset:

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Find out more about the MU's Feldenkrais sessions here. 

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