These strategies are in no order of importance.
The mind (and the heart)
Important Disclaimer
Please note that these ideas are a result of my own thinking and what I have learned about my own Task Specific Focal Dystonia.
The process of thinking about and understanding TSFD is by no means finished. By extension, these strategies are an unfinished work and will be revisited and amended in the future.
They are, however, my current strategies and I believe that they work for me. That does not mean that these strategies will work for you, despite the imperatives.
The aim of this post is to help me clarify my own thinking and express it in words.
- Paco is Paco and I am I and you are you.
- Horse riders don’t fight horses and toreros do not fight bulls. These animals are bigger and stronger. (Task Specific Focal Dystonia) TSFD is bigger so don’t fight it.
- The brain is not random. TSFD developed for a reason. Therefore, it can also be unravelled with the correct approach and thinking.
- To begin with, non-dystonic playing may feel strange. This is normal. Normal because it is new.
- Memory allows us to record new memories. That is a form of medicine.
- Don’t get stressed about the inability to play.
- If playing in public, be very careful – better still, avoid it if you can! TSFD will also make an appearance.
- Do or do not do. Concentrate exclusively on what you are doing. When you practise: practise and do nothing else. I spent four years reading Hispanic Studies. While I was reading, I was playing. After that, I practised watching films. Bad practice. Now I reap the rewards!
- Never practice technique with bad movements. Practice is to help create good habits so never practise bad ones. If you cannot do what you want to do: either the music is too difficult or leave it and try again later.
- Look around at the people who love you. Be prepared to be surprised at how lucky you are. They want you to be happy. Be happy for them. Talk to them.
- Losing control over something that you have worked to attain for many years can cause depression. Don’t turn to drink and drugs. Get psychological help – if you need it.
References
Please see this post: http://miguelbengoa.com/2010/01/01/tsfd-retraining-the-body/
