As a musician who frequently travels across the state of Texas for teaching and
performances, I've devised creative ways to integrate Body Mapping concepts
into my time behind the wheel. While driving may appear routine, it offers a
unique chance to engage with our bodies and explore movement dynamics.
I am convinced that if movement is coordinated while performing mundane daily activities, movement is more likely to be coordinated while working with the instrument.
Here are some techniques I've developed to incorporate Body
Mapping principles into my driving routine:
*Note: Safety should always be a priority when practicing these techniques
while driving. Use caution and judgment to ensure safe operation of the
vehicle.*
1. Inclusive Attention: Central to body mapping is the cultivation of awareness of
one's body in space. While driving, I observe the details of my car's interior,
including the distance between myself and the roof, the layout of the gauges, the
depth of the dashboard, depth and placement of cup holders, and the positioning
of seats and seatbelts. This conscious engagement enhances proprioceptive
awareness and strengthens my connection to the body. The car provides a
consistent setting for practicing Inclusive Attention. Except for minute variables,
the space will generally be similar every time you drive. We can use this
experience to extrapolate the concepts to performance venues.
2. Pronation and Supination of Forearms: Using the steering wheel as a tool, I
practice pronation and supination of my forearms. Beginning by placing my pinky
finger with the forearm in a supinated position, I gradually rotate my hand onto
the steering wheel, emphasizing the movement of the radius crossing a stable
ulna. This exercise promotes coordination of pronation and supination of the
forearms. By placing the pinky finger first and rolling onto the steering wheel, we
can ensure that the ulna remains relatively stationary.
3. Finger Movement: While steering the steering wheel, I focus on articulating
movements from the second finger joint and the first thumb joint. Through
targeted exercises, such as planting the thumb or fingers on the steering wheel
and moving from specific joints, I develop finger agility and control, essential for
precise musical performance. One may choose to finger through difficult
passages, work with independent digits, or alternate between more complex
combinations of digits.
* Exercise 1: Plant thumb on steering wheel and practice movement from finger joint two.
*Exercise 2: Plant fingers on steering wheel and practice movement from thumb joint one.
4. Exploring Balance and Weight Distribution: Driving offers an opportunity to
explore balance and weight distribution while seated. I consciously shift my
weight through my sit bones into the seat, experimenting with different seat
placements, angles, and adjustments to the backrest and headrest. This
exploration informs how subtle postural adjustments can affect comfort and
stability, both in the car and on stage.
By utilizing driving time as an avenue for Body Mapping discovery and
exploration, I deepen my understanding of my body’s mechanics in movement
and refine my kinesthetic awareness. These practices not only contribute to
physical well-being but also enhance musical performance by improving
efficiency, fluidity, and coordination.
Embracing opportunities to connect with our bodies outside of traditional practice settings enriches overall musicianship and fosters a deeper understanding of ourselves as instrumentalists.
So, the next time you're on the road, consider transforming your commute into a journey of self-discovery through Body Mapping.
