interesting performance thing: pins and needles

[Tash]

i had my first little performance at uni the other day (!) in front of like 40 of my peers, to accompany a presentation on haydn keyboard work performance practice, wasn't too bad, i was quite happy. however i have apparently developed a new problem when performing- my hands started getting pins and needles, and i was like wow that's new- so i'm somehow cutting off the circulation to my hands right? how the hell did i manage that and how on earth do i fix it?!

[thalbergmad]

This happened to me on a few occasions when playing to my teacher. The problem was, i was tensing up due to nerves. This was hampering my circulation.

Try to stay relaxed at all times.

Regular massage helps.

Thalxx

[plunkyplink]

Pins and needles is a sign of an anxiety/panic attack. I used to get that, and thought it was a circulation problem and asked my doctor, and indeed it was one of the many physical/psychological symptoms of panic and had nothing to do with nerves or circulation. Certainly, playing infront of 40 of your peers can trigger panic/anxiety attacks in people who wouldn't normally get them. Performing is  extremely anxiety producing, let's face it.

My doctor's advice was when I'd feel pins and needles in my fingers to remind myself that it's my mind playing tricks, and there's nothing wrong with me, and take some deep breaths. Tensing and releasing your hands will help you to relax them. My advice would be to learn and practise relaxation techniques and don't avoid performing.