Life can become a little hectic on tour. No sooner have you settled into your new digs and found your way around, you're off again - new digs, new place, and new people. It can be easy to dismiss the importance of regular meal times, quiet moments and a good night’s sleep and eventually, it may begin to take its toll.
That's why it's important to practice self-care - whatever that means to you - and continue to look after your physical and mental wellbeing, no matter how stressful life may become.
It can be the smallest details that make you happy, but they are no less important. Check out our tops tips for managing your wellbeing whilst on tour:
1. Eat Well
Convenience is key whilst living on the road and fast food, ready meals or skipping lunch altogether can quickly become a bad habit. However, maintaining a healthy balanced diet can not only improve your physical health, but also your mental health and general wellbeing, helping you to perform your best.
Stocking up on healthy snacks and cooking your favourite meals in bulk can help you to maintain a balanced diet. We recommend finding digs that offer kitchen or food preparation facilities.
2. Sleep Well
Ensuring you get enough rest is vital for a great performance. Regular late nights can leave you feeling deflated so where possible, try to develop and stick to a regular sleeping pattern. This can help to boost your mood, reduce stress and improve your overall health.
3. Take time out
Life on tour can be demanding and you may find yourself beginning to feel overwhelmed. This is a key indicator that it's time to take a break.
Whether it's a stroll in the local park, catching up on your TV favourites or a visit back home to friends and family, taking time out can help you to re-focus and prevent you from burning out.
4. Get talking
We all need a little help from time to time so don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it. Whether it's a personal or professional issue, speaking with someone close can help to ease the load and may even offer a solution.
Need advice?
Society of London Theatre (SOLT) and UK Theatre have launched Theatre Helpline, a free 24-hour phone and email service supporting theatre professionals with any issue affecting their health and wellbeing.
The confidential resource is open to anyone working in theatre, whether in-house or freelance and offers support and advice on a range of personal and professional topics, including bullying, physical and mental health, finance, careers and retirement issue.