Pain or tension problems can be some of the most difficult problems to solve. Using the principle of the Muscle Memory Trainer however, is an essential part of the solution.
For most people there is usually a period of time, however short it may be, before tension or pain sets in. By using the principle of the Muscle Memory Trainer, one can gradually retrain themselves to remain relaxed while playing.
One important thing to understand is that tension or pain is on Autopilot, just like any other habit. So, the solution is to find a way to overcome it.
Start by actually timing how long it takes before you start to feel pain or tension. Next, set a timer and break your practicing down into sessions that are significantly shorter then that.
For instance, if it takes 10 minutes before tension sets in, then break your practicing down into 5 minute segments with short breaks to reset yourself. This is your Muscle Memory Limit. Be generously short with your limit so that there is as little chance as possible of Autopilot taking over. Practice this way for several days.
When you break to reset yourself, do whatever it takes to make sure your return to a relaxed state. Put your instrument down and pick it back up. Do some stretches. Take an actual break and walk around the room. Decide what will be most effective and make sure you feel reset.
When your current Muscle Memory Limit feels easy, and is without tension or pain, then gradually increase your limit. Do this until you can play tension-free!
Be sure to follow the principle of the Muscle Memory Trainer patiently and make sure your limit avoids autopilot and any tension kicking in. Remember, you can’t cheat your muscle memory!
Please note that an essential part of solving the problem of tension and pain is also making sure you have accurately identified the problem and the correction you need to make to your technique. This should involve the expertise of an experienced teacher. Once the needed correction is identified, then the Muscle Memory Trainer will help you successfully establish it.
Life Lesson
Even though I am including this as a life lesson, this is also an essential part of overcoming tension and pain.
Tension and pain are never solely the result of poor technique. They are also the result of what is going on in your mind.
Learn to recognize your thoughts and how they are linked to the tension in your body. Are you anticipating difficulty? Are you anxious? Are you engaging in negative self-talk?
More than likely, you are also a tense person overall. Look at your life and examine your stressful thoughts and how they are affecting your body. Practice gentler, more loving thoughts, and practice relaxing your body throughout the day.
Remember, how you play is not something that is isolated from the rest of your life. Learning to play without tension can have a ripple effect on your overall well-being!