Each year, thousands of bands take to the open roads with tour vans, zooming up and down the country. But experienced musicians will realize that touring is not always sex, drugs and rock and roll. While the touring life of a musician is often glorified in movies, TV shows and popular culture, life on tour can actually be quite difficult. Not only do you have to get used to being away from your family and friends, but you also have to get used to living out of a suitcase. Not only that, but many musicians find it extremely difficult to relax while they are away from home.
Thankfully, there are lots of simple things that musicians can do to relax while on tour. If you are going on tour with your band this year, here are some of our top tips to help you relax while away from your home comforts:
01) Take Comfort Food with You
While it is important not to eat too much junk food while you are away on tour, you might want to consider taking a few treats with you on your travels. Maybe you could take some of your favourite boiled sweets for the journey, or maybe you would prefer to take your favourite chocolate bars to eat when you are missing home. Comfort food can help you to relax when you are feeling stressed.
02) Listen to Music
Another amazing way to relax while on tour is to listen to some of your favourite music. Research has shown that listening to music can help us to feel relaxed and happy. No matter whether you prefer classical music or heavy metal, listening to it will help you to switch off from your troubles and relax.
03) Do Not Over schedule Yourself
There is nothing more stressful than having to rush from one venue to another because you have over scheduled yourself. If you want to enjoy your time on tour, make sure you space out your gigs and get plenty of rest in between them.
04) Play Some Games
While you might not be able to take an Xbox or a PlayStation with you on your travels, there are lots of games you can enjoy while on the move. For example, you could find mobile pokie games that you enjoy, or you could play cards with your bandmates. Playing games is a great way to relax and unwind after a busy day.
05) Watch a Film
If you’re going on tour for several months, it might be a good idea to find some films or tv programmes that you can enjoy while you’re away. After all, there is nothing more relaxing than lying in bed, watching a film after a long and stressful day.
06) Limit Your Technology
Limiting the amount of technology you use while on tour is an important tip. However, it is also one of the most difficult to achieve. But seriously, if you want to relax on tour, it is a good idea to turn off any distractions in the form of technology. Consider turning off push notifications and data roaming on your mobile phone, mute your emails and unplug the tv.
Going on tour may sound exciting, but it can often be a lot harder than you would expect. If you are going on tour this year, then follow our top tips above. These tips will help you to relax and enjoy the experience.
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