A Somatic Approach to Performance Anxiety
A workshop helping performers, students, and professionals to work with their nervous system — not against it — so anxiety becomes something workable instead of something to fear.
Why "Just Calm Down" Doesn't Work
Performance anxiety is more than nerves. It's a full-body response — racing heart, tight chest, shaky hands, a mind that goes blank at the worst possible moment. And it's driven by the nervous system, which reacts long before the conscious mind catches up.
That's why mindset tools alone often aren't enough. You can't think your way out of a physiological response. What performers need are tools that work at the level of the body.
What This Workshop Offers
Perform With Ease is a body-based approach to performance anxiety, grounded in Somatic Experiencing (developed by Dr. Peter Levine). Participants leave with:
- A new understanding of why the body responds the way it does under pressure
- Practical, discreet tools they can use before, during, and after performance
- An introduction to the Window of Tolerance and what it means for sustainable performing
- A reframe of anxiety as activation energy — something to work with, not eliminate
- A simple daily practice to build capacity over time
Interested in bringing this to your group? Let's talk.
What We Cover
- What performance anxiety actually is (beyond "just nerves")
- The nervous system's role in fight, flight, and freeze
- Why top-down strategies fall short
- Tracking sensation and building interoception
- Pendulation and titration — core somatic skills
- Real-time regulation tools: grounding, breath, orienting, self-touch
- What to do when activation is too high for subtle tools
- After-performance completion practices
- Reframing anxiety and building capacity over time
Every attendee receives a takeaway handout summarizing all tools and concepts.
Designed For Groups Who Perform Under Pressure
- Music schools, conservatories, and private studios
- School music, drama, and dance departments
- Choirs, orchestras, and ensembles
- Theatre companies and performing arts organizations
- Public speaking and communication programs
- Athletic programs and coaches
Participants of all ages and experience levels benefit — from young students navigating first recitals to seasoned professionals refining how they show up on stage.
Flexible Formats to Suit Your Group
In person or virtual — adapted to your space, group size, and needs
1.5 – 2 hours — a focused, practical session
Half-day format — for deeper practice and integration
Each workshop blends teaching, guided somatic practice, and reflection, with plenty of space for participants to explore tools at their own pace.
Common Questions
Is this suitable for younger students? Yes. The tools are adaptable for all ages — I'll tailor the language and exercises to suit your group.
Do participants need any prior experience with somatic work? None at all. The workshop is designed as an accessible introduction.
Can the content be customized for our group? Absolutely. I work with each organization to shape the workshop around your members' specific needs — whether that's audition prep, competition performance, classroom presentations, or stage work.
What do participants need to bring? Just themselves. A handout is provided, and if the format is in person, a comfortable chair is helpful.
