Juggling classes, homework, extracurriculars—and performing arts—can make student life fast-paced and exhausting. But it doesn’t have to be that way! A little time management and self-care can give you the energy to power through your rehearsal schedule.
It all starts with food.
Ever hear the expression: “you are what you eat?” Well, it’s true! The foods you consume are digested and delivered to your muscles, heart, and brain cells- which all form your actions, your feelings, and even your thoughts! So, think twice about loading yourself up with junky Halloween candy. Junk food = junk thoughts = junk performances. Not what you want as a performing artist!
Instead, give your body foods to enhance your enthusiasm, focus, and creativity onstage.
The key? Eating for energy.
Here are three surprising snack foods that will chase away hunger and fatigue and help you light up the stage:
- Avocados
Avocados are awesome sources of healthy fats, and help smooth digestion. Try them on celery sticks with pumpkin seeds (a power greens version of “ants on a log”) or in lemon-parsley guacamole with carrot sticks.
QUICK TIP: Avocados are best to eat before getting into costume, because they can stain clothing.
- Brazil Nuts
Brazil nuts are filling and packed with selenium. This mineral helps keep your heart healthy, your immune system strong, and your brain functioning at optimal levels.
QUICK TIP: Just two Brazil nuts per day can give you the selenium you need to power your performance! Snack on them plain, or mix them in an easy trail mix with cranberries and coconut flakes.
- Coconuts
Coconuts are health foods and body care products. Whether you drink the water (hydration and electrolytes), eat the meat (healthy fats and fiber), or apply the oil (great for smooth skin and shiny hair), coconuts can be used for nutrition and beauty—including stage makeup removal!
QUICK TIP: Coconut water contains electrolytes which replenish your body’s vital salts and minerals, and gives you energy. Try coconut yogurt, too, with chia seeds and blueberries. (Organic is best!)
Want to prevent embarrassing yawns, stomach rumbles, and runny noses? Avoid these foods during rehearsals and performances:
Refined, Processed Sugars: Sugar makes you feel excited and energized—for about 15 minutes. Then, when you crash, you feel listless and sleepy for hours. Choose natural fruits instead!
Citrus: Most citrus is acidic and can dry your throat, lips, and hands—and irritate your stomach. Preparing a big solo? Skip the citrus, and save your voice!
Dairy: Dairy, one of the top food allergens, has an effect on dairy-sensitive people like a bad cold or severe allergies: watery eyes, runny nose, congestion, coughs. However, even for those without a dairy intolerance, consuming milk products before a rehearsal can lead to buildup in the throat- making it much harder to sing. If you want to have bright eyes, a clear voice, and zero sniffles… ditch the dairy.
Balancing school, activities, and rehearsals can take lots of practice. So, eat for energy. Remember the ABCs of rehearsal foods—Avocados, Brazil Nuts, and Coconut—can fuel your performance through to the standing ovation…and the encore!
Have any snack ideas? Share your favorite health-friendly rehearsal foods in the comments below!