Recently, I saw performer on social media asking what kind of self-care other performers do after a burlesque show to wind down. It got me thinking: what do I do to unwind? Do I have self-care rituals to reset after the show is over?
In short, the answer is yes. I suppose I just didn’t identify it as “self-care” in a world flooded with over-the-top self-care blog posts telling me I need to pour myself a glass of expensive wine so I can read a book by candlelight in a bathtub. While that sounds like a relaxing experience, there’s no way I’m doing any of that when I get home at 2 am after producing (and performing in) a 2+ hour burlesque show.
Of course, extravagant or luxurious activities aren’t the only way to practice self-care. Which is great, because after a show, none of us have the time or energy to light a hundred candles and put rose petals in a bathtub and then clean it all up at, like, 4 am.
Unwinding after performing is essential, though. Both your body and mind have been through a lot by the time you get home. We need to make time for ourselves, take care of ourselves, recharge our batteries, and let our minds decompress. Let’s talk about some of the ways we can take care of ourselves post-performance!
De-Glam Ritual
Taking off lashes, glitter, and stage makeup can be its own form of meditation. Use this time to gently return to yourself. A luxurious face cleanse, a warm shower, or a soak in the tub with epsom salt can help wash off the adrenaline and bring your nervous system down a notch.
Hydrate and Nourish
Let’s be honest — you didn’t eat a lot before or during the show. Now is the time to rehydrate and get something nourishing into your system. Whether it’s a hearty meal or a simple snack, listen to what your body is craving. Of course, this is all dependent on what time it is — you’re probably not going to have a full steak and potatoes dinner in the middle of the night — but you do you. I definitely suggest real, whole foods over fast food, for the sake of taking care of yourself!
Soft Clothes, Soft Lighting
Most of us aren’t lounging around the house in a Catherine D’Lish. (Or, are we…) We’ve already taken that off after the show and hung it back up in the closet. However, it’s a must to slip into an oversized robe or cozy pajamas. After all the pastie tape, tight corsets, scratchy tulle, and high heels, it’s time to get comfortable. And while we’re at it, we’re opting for soft lighting, too. Dim, warm lighting can create a softer environment that will help signal to your body that it’s time to wind down.
Journaling or Voice Memos to Yourself
After performing, your mind is probably racing with thoughts. Things that went well, things you’d change, hilarious backstage moments… Capture them! A quick journal entry or voice memo can help you process the experience, and also preserve the magic.
Decompress With the Group
Not everyone is an introvert who needs to return under a blanket directly after a show. And, not everyone is ready for the magic to be over right when the curtain closes! Head down the street to grab late-night bites together, host an afterparty for the cast and crew (this usually includes Franky’s famous grilled cheeses for the Flamingo Revue), or simply hang with everyone for a bit. Being in each others’ presence can feel grounding, plus everyone can gush about how awesome the night was!
Gentle Movement
Light stretching or a few minutes of relaxing yoga can help your body unwind, especially if you’ve been dancing in heels and holding tension in your shoulders from nerves. We’re not doing anything strenuous. Start at the top of your head and work your way down, focusing on each group of muscles, letting go of tension.
Unplug, or Plug In Intentionally
Sometimes you want to scroll through the photos and bask in the applause, and sometimes you need to completely unplug. Feel out what you need. If social media gives you a dopamine hit, indulge a bit. If it spikes your anxiety or keeps you from relaxing, turn on airplane mode and rest.
Watch Something Light
I have comfort shows that I have seen a lot. They make me feel good, like I’m checking in on old friends. I already know what’s going to happen, there are no surprises, and it won’t matter if I accidentally fall asleep before the end of the episode. That’s what you want. A comfort show or a silly movie can act like a palate cleanser for your brain.
Rest, Glorious Rest
When all else fails, just rest. Even if your body is buzzing and your mind is whirring, giving yourself the space to lie down and do nothing is powerful. Your post-show self deserves real rest.