Part 2 of a 2-Part Series on Music Festival Comfort
Part 1 of our music/outdoor festival “how tos” dealt with camping. This time around, we thought you’d like to know what we think can help you simply relax while you’re at this high energy event. Even though the reason you’re there is to get fired up, lose your inhibitions and completely go for it, you don’t want to get so wasted that you can’t enjoy it fully. Resting, slowing down from time to time is just as important as going all in. It actually invigorates you — like charging your battery. So, let’s get right to it, shall we? Because you’ve got places to go, things to see, and effigies to burn.
Mat roll, please… Yoga
Yep, no brainer that one. A nice dose of yoga in the midst of a festival does wonders and many of the events today offer a yoga tent. Even if you don’t do it on a regular basis in your real life or it’s something you roll your eyes at back home, indulging in a few poses makes a difference in winding down. You can even ask the yoga instructor for some simple things to do back in your tent, or while you’re listening/watching whatever. And if there isn’t a place that organizes it there, download a few simple poses and bring them with you. They will definitely take the edge off so you can give yourself a breather.
Ear plugs and eye masks
We mentioned this in our camping tips, but we can’t advocate these enough. All of us need a little “me” time, even in the midst of all the fun we’re having. One of the best ways of doing that, of really giving in to some rest even if just for a few minutes, is to separate yourself from outside interference as much as possible. Ear plugs and eye masks will help you do that. They’ll diffuse the roar of the crowds and whatever’s going on at the event so you can just be.
Last call for alcohol
Part of the fun of these amazing happenings is enjoying some tasty libations. We understand completely and see nothing wrong with that. However, too much of a good thing can be, as they say, a bitch. Overindulging throws off your circadian rhythm and makes it really difficult to find peace — whether it’s taking a breather during the festivities or getting to sleep at night. You’ve got all day and you want to remember the experience you’re enjoying as well. Your body needs you to be good to it all the time and pacing yourself with the booze will make it very, very happy.
Create your cozy
Whether you’re camping nearby or staying off-site, create a comfortable on-site environment, however that works for you. Obviously you’ll want to check the festival rules to make sure whatever you’re bringing in is approved, but there’s a lot you can do within their guidelines. These are several hour, multi-day events and the organizers want you to be comfy, cozy. That means you’ll be able to have blankets, pillows, chairs, food, any variety of things that help you feel at ease, relaxed and happy. Wrap yourself in it.
Know your space
Relaxing isn’t just chilling out and taking it easy. Relaxing is also feeling safe and comfortable in your surroundings. Not to be “stranger danger” here, but we’re gonna get “stranger danger” for a minute. Know where you are, who is around you, what’s going on. Be aware of your environment and how close you are to shelter if needed, emergency services, bathrooms, exits, fairgoers, etc. Don’t stray too far from the crowd. Outdoor events usually take place in nature and the areas around the grounds can get rather wild. Just, ya know, understand your space and who’s in it and how to get help if you need it. Okay?
A layover not a sprint
There’s this tendency to want to see and do everything, to not want to miss a thing, to throw yourself into any and every possible event on the line-up. You do that, you’ll burn out so big time you’ll be sorry you came. Take it easy. These are affairs with a myriad of acts/experiences/tastes and are meant to be enjoyed to the fullest. You don’t have to do all of this at once. It’s why the organizers of these things publish the line-up ahead of time and share the schedule of events to help you plan the best experience for yourself. There are guaranteed breaks in the action you’re interested in so you can just chill out, go back to your tent or find a quiet area, pop on those ear plugs, don an eye mask, and unplug for awhile. So, why not take them up on it?
Decide on the acts you want to see before you get there then create a game plan for having a blast which includes time for relaxation. Go ahead, grab some water, read a book, take a nap — you know the drill. Walk around, indulge in some of the bits of eye candy or extracurricular experiences being offered that aren’t part of the main stage. Festivals are set up to give you options for how to spend your time. Give into it and tune out of it whenever you want and indulge in some blissful, dream-filled slumber. Ah… It’s okay. Really.
Give yourself a break
If you account for down time as well as party time, the days you spend at a balls-to-the-walls, music, food, dance, art, philosophy, media, immersive extravaganza may very well end up being the best, most fulfilling, hands-down relaxing vacation you’ve ever had.
