It’s not a secret that all artists tend to lead rather unhealthy lives. When a muse pays a visit, there is no place left for sleep, rest, normal food — let alone exercises. More so, such a lifestyle became so associated with artistic lives, that it’s virtually impossible to keep ourselves detached from it and try to establish a healthy normal lifestyle.
But let’s not fall victim to the stigma and all the hardships a life of a DJ can bring. Many musicians and other artists have established some ground rules to maintain a somewhat healthy routine that would ease the negative impact tours, hard work, and overnight sessions bring.
Pick up a physical activity
It’s a crucial one. Physical activity will automatically force you to sleep and eat because your body will demand that. So that’s a good place to start. It doesn’t have to be a gym if you don’t like it. Think of something that could be interesting and engaging enough for you so that it doesn’t become a burdening chore. Maybe that’s kung fu or pilates — whatever makes you feel good and free. Even a good long walk can be enough for many people.
However, if you feel overwhelmed with work or whatever that’s going on in your life, you should permit yourself to not be bothered with the sport. You don’t need this additional stress of feeling shameful for not working out when your body is already exhausted with that overnight show you had.
Sport should be fun and stress-relieving. That’s what you should aim for. Then being physically active will be a pleasure, not something you drag yourself through.
Try to eat cleaner
Do your best to avoid fast food and highly processed foods. Sugary foods and drinks should go away, too. Sure, you can treat yourself to something unhealthy once in a while, but such items shouldn’t be a part of your daily diet. Once you start eating healthier, you’ll notice that you have more energy and a clearer mind to work. This will help you to cope with the stress of a DJ’s life.
Just try eating vegetables with each meal, drink enough water, and cut highly processed foods, and you’ll notice a difference. You don’t need to choose a specific diet. It’s better to figure out what fits you so that healthier eating feels natural and helps you avoid binging on unhealthy food.
Alcohol is not of any help
Many artists see alcohol and drugs as something that helps them to stay creative. But the truth is that the more we drink or use, the more we want to drink or use, and the less productive and creative we become. It’s terribly difficult to walk that thin line that allows you to intake just enough to stay more inventive but not too much. So it’s better to avoid alcohol and drugs at all. Or at least during gigs and studio work. You’ll notice your sound getting clearer as you get able to pay more attention to details.
You still need to sleep
Sure, you can’t avoid late and overnight gigs. But you still need to sleep, even if you got to another time zone during your tour. Try wearing sleep masks and earplugs to get some quiet and darkness. Also, try using melatonin and CBD to help your body feel relaxed and tired enough to fall asleep. However, still stay conscious about supplements as you don’t want to rely on them. If you need to get away from the adrenaline rush a set usually brings, try meditating, or taking a long hot shower or a bath.
Try not to get overbooked
It’s easy to agree to way more work you can actually do without harming yourself. Especially, if you’re at the beginning of your career. But getting overbooked will only make you feel burned out and overwhelmed quickly. Don’t be afraid to miss a gig. Choose only the best ones and remember that you’re more important than the money you earn. What’s the use of that extra few hundred bucks you get if you won’t be able to remain creative to earn more? Be kind to yourself and stay wise when deciding whether to take on a gig or not.
People who surround you matter
If you keep toxic people around, you will definitely feel stressed, and that won’t help your health. Be attentive to those who are close to you whether that’s people you work or live with. If you see that a person negatively impacts a lot of things in your life, it’s better to cut them off. Your mental health is way more important than a toxic person being mad at you. Also, do your best to stay in touch with your family and close friends, especially on tours. They will help you to feel connected to reality. No matter how close you are with people from your team, they most likely won’t replace friends and family.
Take care of your health — both mental and physical. This is necessary for staying as talented and productive as you are and reaching new heights!