What’s up everyone? My name is Patrick and I go by DJ AndOne. I’m an editor and content manager here for Heavy Hits and recently felt the need to write about some solutions I’ve found in hopes that it could help some of you in the near future.
Fair warning – this is not going to be some stereotypical list about how you need to get sleep, stay hydrated, etc. (all important things). But rather a more itemized list of little things I keep in my DJ bag to help through any mental health struggles I may have on gig days.
1. Pack of Gum
I always keep one full pack of gum on me at all times during a gig because if you get nervous or are experiencing anxiety, you tend to easily get cottonmouth which can cause issues when you’re talking on the mic. Chewing gum allows your mouth to salivate helping to fix this problem and not cause as much distress if you need to MC anything.
2. Hand Gripper
This is something I use all the time. If you squeeze the hand gripper for one minute in each hand four times, it can serve as a physical release of tension within the body and actually slow down your heart rate. Great for pre-show nerves.
3. Rubik’s Cube
This one may sound a little nerdy. But it’s important to occupy your mind with something if you’re just sitting around waiting for the show to start. If you keep dwelling about being anxious or whatever else it is. It’s only going to distract you. You don’t need to get a Rubix Cube and break a damn world record. But just find a little something you can do to help keep you engaged nd focused on what’s in front of you.
4. Anytime Fitness Membership
The reason I put this on here is because sometimes when I travel for a gig. I set all my stuff up and am sweaty and disgusting, but have nowhere to shower and get ready. If you get an Anytime Fitness membership, you have 24/7 access to a shower and a private bathroom. This same idea applies to Planet Fitness and many other gyms. Find a gym like that in your region with multiple locations because this really comes in handy (especially if you’re doing a wedding).
5. Headspace App
This is something that has helped me tremendously. I took up meditation a few years ago and it has done wonders for me in the long run. The app is packed with different long-term programs, as well as exercises as short as 3 minutes to help you step back and take a breather. I have it on my phone and use it almost every day, but if you can’t get to yours, you can login on your laptop and do a guided meditation on there.
I hope this brief list of things I use has encouraged you to try at least one of these out. As my Dad once said, “You’ll never get anywhere by stopping, but you will by starting.” So, do yourself a favor and start to try different things to help you manage any nerves or issues you have before you get behind the decks. Hit me up on Instagram @djandonemusic if you ever want to talk about things or if you have any questions.
Peace Out!
– DJ AndOne