My Top 5 Ways to Stay Sane on Tour
Island Glow Tour - 6/14/2023 - Nampa, ID
Touring can be an exhilarating experience, but it also takes a toll on both the body and mind. Each day presents new challenges that demand physical and mental endurance. As someone who's been touring since 2010, I've learned some practical tips that have helped me stay healthy, manage fatigue, and maintain my creative spark despite being thousands of miles away from home.
One of the first things I've found crucial is setting fitness goals. Without a clear objective, it's easy to lose focus. I set a goal this tour to run 10 miles per week - a target that is both achievable and reasonable for me. This level of a challenge keeps me consistent, and if I exceed it, that's even better, but hitting the 10-mile mark is also a great achievement.
To nourish my mind and spirit, I established a reading goal. Though I sometimes struggle with extended reading sessions, I commit to reading at least one short excerpt from "The Daily Stoic: Stoic Wisdom for Everyday Life" every morning with my coffee. The wisdom and clarity it provides set the right tone for the day. Additionally, I am reading "Wellbeing Begins With You" by Yuan Tze.
Maintaining self-control over my eating habits is essential on tour, given the limited control over catering services at various venues. Most places offer a salad station, so I prioritize greens and proteins. Hydration is also vital, and while drinking a gallon of water per day can be challenging, the benefits are tremendous.
Despite being surrounded by great people, tour life can sometimes be lonely, especially when dealing with personal struggles. So, I make an effort to socialize and connect with others. I reach out to family members and also make an effort to get to know our crew and other bands' crews. Even small interactions with strangers on the street can bring a sense of connection and belonging.
Rest is crucial amidst the chaos of touring. Our minds are constantly overstimulated, and to counter this, I've incorporated meditation apps into my morning and bedtime routines. Additionally, I've discovered the power of a 15-minute power down—a short period of rest in my bunk that feels like a quick battery recharge. Moreover, I prioritize getting at least 7 hours of sleep each night to allow my body ample time to recover and repair.
Looking back on fulfilling days, I realize they are the result of successfully accomplishing these five personal tasks. While I might feel disappointed on days when I miss one of them, I remind myself to be gentle and understanding, for trying is an act of self-love. Loving ourselves is crucial because it enables us to extend that love to others and thrive on the journey that is life on the road. - SG
