Here is a list of 10 resources I found extremely useful in my recovery from Musicians Focal Dystonia. Whilst simply reading did not solve my dystonia issues, learning and applying the ideas presented in these resources was a large part of my recovery process.
I hope that these resources are useful for you too.
Performing in The Zone
— Jon Gorrie
Although I have heard that my own book about overcoming performance anxiety issues has been useful in offering relevant advice for musicians with focal dystonia, that is not why I listed it here.
The intense process that I went through when writing this book was an extremely cathartic and effective way of releasing emotional tensions, and other base-level underlying blockages regarding playing.
You may like to pick up a copy of my book, or, you may simply like to start writing your own book and treat this as a therapeutic process.
Personal Power 2 (Audio Program)
— Tony Robbins
I recommend this life-changing audio program sooner or later to practically every one of my clients. Many of the skills, attitudes, tools and ideas here are useful in helping to understand the emotional processes involved in Musicians Focal Dystonia.
Stop thinking, start living
— Richard Carlsson
One of the simplest, but most powerful mindset and life-changing books I’ve ever read. Highly recommended.
The Power of Now
— Echart Tolle
Useful in helping to differentiate between the states of here and now, and future events. Although this sounds simple, it does require some clever explanation, which this book certainly offers.
The Tao of Health, Sex, and Longevity
— Daniel Reid
The sections on general health, diet, exercise, and Taoist philosophy will help you lead a more relaxed, stress-free, and healthy life. I have purchased umpteen copies of this book to give to friends and family around the world.
The Inner Game of Tennis
— Timothey Gallwey
A classic, and perhaps the first book on performance psychology directly applicable to performing musicians. I much prefer “The Inner Game of Tennis” over “The Inner Game of Music” – both in terms of dealing with performance nerves, and allowing freedom of physical motion.
The Quiet
— Paul Wilson
An excellent treatise on achieving inner peace and contentment – qualities which are often lacking in musicians with focal dystonia.
Get the Edge (Audio program)
— Tony Robbins
Another excellent audio program by a man who dedicates his life to excellence, understanding human behviour, and getting the most ‘juice’ out of any situation.
Mental practice and imagery for musicians
— Malva Freymuth
A little-known but useful short book about how to get the most out of a practise session. Also useful for encouraging positive reinforcement (positive neuro-associations) in practise.
Healing Emotions – Conversations with the Dalai Lama
— Ed. Daniel Goleman
Buddhist philosophy says that the mind can heal the body. These transcribed conversations discuss negative emotions, how they can damage the body, and how they can be avoided and replaced with positive and constructive emotions. Highly recommended reading.