Protecting the Body

This chapter introduces injury preventive practices for the music student. These include key activities such as warming up, cooling down, exercising, and participating in mind–body practices. The differences between static and dynamic stretching, as well as when to practice each methodology, are discussed. Ideas for cultivating healthful habits, both within students’ musical practice and in their daily life, are provided. The chapter includes descriptions of mind–body practices common among musicians, such as the Alexander technique and Feldenkrais. An injury-prevention toolkit at the end of the chapter provides several practical worksheets and exercises (available on the companion website) for music instructors to use with their students.