One of my adult students, Berenice, is a homeopath. We were discussing performance nerves and anxiety in piano playing and she had the following suggestions for homeopathic treatments for children and adults. Berenice is based in South London. Do get in touch if you would like any performance-related homeopathic advice from her. bshomoeopathy@yahoo.co.uk
Gelsemium 200c
Gelsemium sempervirens (yellow jessamine or jasmine) is a homeopathic remedy recommended for fear of public speaking. Gelsemium is one of the favorite remedies for people who become paralysed with fear prior to taking an exam. This remedy is recommended if you feel an acute anxiety which causes you to seize up both mentally and physically. People who need this remedy to perform better under various circumstances literally feel paralyzed, weak and dizzy. Their limbs become heavy. This is not a good bouquet of symptoms to have during performances or exams.
For exam anxiety, take three pellets of Gelsemium 200 C on the morning of the exam, spaced out in half-hour intervals. You can also dissolve one 200C pellet in a small bottle of spring water and then sip from it as needed.
Argentum Nitricum 200c
If your fear is different to the symptoms described above and instead you feel panic, nausea, your mind races with wild thoughts and/or you fear the worst happening, then the recommended remedy is Argentum Nitricum or Arg-Nit.
Rescue Remedy
Used for years by musicians, my piano teacher used to dose us with this before we went on stage! Rescue Remedy is a Bach Flower extract. It is a mix of five different remedies (Cherry Plum, Clematis, Impatiens, Rock Rose and Star of Bethlehem) which together help deal with any emergency or stressful event. Taking a driving test, exam nerves, speaking in public, after an accident or an argument – there are countless uses for Rescue Remedy. In times of extreme stress use 4 drops neat straight onto your tongue as often as needed. For challenging days add 8- 12 drops to a bottle of mineral water and sip liberally all day – i.e. perhaps when driving.
It is not recommended to mix homeopathic treatments such as Gelsemium and Arg-Nit. Please consult with a homeopathic professional before taking any treatment. All remedies above are available from Healthmatters on Lordship Lane in East Dulwich. Speak to Monica or Dawn for more information.
Read more online:
Online Music Aptitude Tests
Coping with stage fright
