In the recent years, a new method has been more and more commonly applied among musicians as it helps to deal with their difficulties. It’s called Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Despite its name, it is more a way of thinking than a therapy, so nothing to worry about. 

ACT uses acceptance and mindfulness strategies, and originally was applied in psychotherapy. What also caught my attention regarding ACT is that it addresses the ROLE LANGUAGE PLAYS IN HUMAN SUFFERING. 

ACT is being tested in music education settings to show musicians how actually they are able to perform up to their planned standards despite they experience performance anxiety.   

ACT’s goal is not to fight against or eliminate anxiety. Instead these little games which ACT offers are mental exercises that enhance our flexibility to accept our physical and mental states that we will be free with achieving what we want. 

In this episode, with Dr. David Juncos clinical psychologist and performance anxiety specialist, I give you some insight into how ACT works in practice by presenting one of the most typical exercises from ACT.

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