How to Relieve Stage Fright

Learn how to overcome your stage fright.

Is it a phobia of yours to perform in front of an audience? Do you feel anxiety and fear when anticipating a performance? Even experienced singers, actors and other public performers still feel the jitters before going on stage. However, stage fright doesn't just happen on stage in front of an audience. You may feel anxiety when talking to just one person or when leaving a voicemail message on an answering machine. Anxiety may appear in the form of dry mouth, sweaty hands, nausea, a fast pulse, shaky knees and trembling lips. There are various ways to lessen these symptoms and control stage fright.

Instructions

1. 

   Take vitamins to reduce stage fright symptoms.

   Take vitamin B, vitamin C, calcium and magnesium on a regular basis. According to Dale Cyphert, Ph.D., you can lessen the symptoms of stage fright by taking these vitamins. Lack of vitamin B can lead to coordination problems, depression and forgetfulness. Vitamin C gives you more energy and makes you more resistant against stress. Calcium and magnesium tranquilize nerves.

2. Get some exercise the night before you have to go on stage. Medicine Net suggests that exercise is a stress reliever and also produces endorphins. Endorphins are a chemical that the brain produces and are natural stress fighters that produce a euphoric feeling.

3. 

   Make sure you get plenty of sleep.

   Get plenty of sleep. In order for you to perform your best, you will need to be fully rested. Give your body the rest it needs so it is ready for the upcoming challenge.

4. Avoid eating certain foods before going on stage. Stage fright is often associated with the digestive system shutting down. This can be caused by foods that you may have consumed earlier in the day. Everyone responds different to certain foods. Before hitting the stage, it's good to stay clear of milk, sugar, alcohol, nicotine and caffeine.

5. 

   Laughing reduces stress.

   Laugh out loud. Making yourself laugh is an instant stress reducer and will help you relax.

6. Regulate your breathing. Take deep breaths when you feel stage fright symptoms taking over. Controlling your breathing is the best way to relieve stress and to get rid of anxiety feelings. Various meditation and yoga techniques may come in handy. Consider taking a class or two.

7. Imagine the audience naked. This will make you less intimidated by all the eyes staring at you.

Tips & Warnings

• Be prepared and know the material you are about to present to the audience. It will increase your confidence and you will have one less thing to worry about.

References

• University of Northern Iowa: Managing Stage Fright
• Medicine Net: Endorphins, Natural Pain and Stress Fighters
• Tom Antion: Stage Fright Strategies