Release into Support
5 Cues You Can Use Now
Support isn’t about tightening a muscle or region, it is about organizing the body for movement. As movers, we can enjoy the support of the ground and our whole body to facilitate technical coordination, expanded tone colors, and an amazing and priceless connection to our listener.
Here are 5 cues you can use to “release into support.” Yes, you read that correctly, “release into support.
Find the support beneath you, a.k.a. the ground. Imagine the bones of your skeleton supporting you, connecting with the ground, and your chair. Then imagine your soft tissue (muscles, fascia, ligaments) draping over the bones.
Expand your hearing. Notice the sounds close to you, like your breathing along with those in the distance. Hear the layers as you prepare to play. Notice your sound in the context of the environment.
Allow the torso to expand and release with the breath. When we are breathing efficiently, every tissue in the torso is moved by the breath.
Allow your visual field to include the periphery as you look at your music or in your space.
Soften the sternum, breastbone, all it to float on the breath.
Support comes when we allow ourselves to be whole musicians. Notice these cues are gentle, not effortful. Use a particular cue that resonates with you throughout your practice or pick a different cue each time before you deliver instrument/hands or begin to play.
Be curious…
Friday - Body Mapping for EveryBODY - Breathing. Learn about the body’s natural design for breathing so you can harness the power of your breath in life or in your craft. Join a great group of curious movers: https://www.jotform.com/form/202745783192158