When approaching certain technical challenges of playing the cello, I often try to think of movements and actions, instead of specific words. I look for connections with my non cello playing movements and search for ways I can implement that ease of motion into my cello playing. For instance, I don't have to practice relaxing while I am sitting on the couch, but when playing the cello it's an area I have to focus on and explore! As a teacher, and in general, telling someone to "relax" will usually yield the opposite result. Just like telling someone who is anxious to simply calm down doesn't work, or someone who is depressed to be happy. Just like calming down or being happy is the end result for someone who is anxious, relaxation and effortless playing is the end result for cello playing. But what are the thoughts/ideas and approaches that get us there? This is where thinking in actions can come in hand. Going back to sitting on the couch, I try to think of how loose and relaxed I am while vegging out. I am letting my entire body sink into the couch, I don't feel like I have to keep anything suspended. When I am sitting with the cello I try and think of this type of relaxation, especially in my shoulders and arms (an area I need most work!). I also try and think of sitting into the chair, not on top of the chair. A good way to feel this release of weight is to take a deep breath, and on the exhale feel your entire body sinking into the chair. There are countless number of situations/motions that we have to execute while playing the cello and this is part of the creativity process when working!
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