Have you ever wondered how those who work tirelessly behind the scenes at New York Fashion Week (NYFW) manage to find a moment of peace amidst the frenzy?
The Hustle and Bustle of NYFW
If you’ve never experienced a fashion week, especially one as grand as NYFW, it’s often described as “intricate chaos.” These events are full of frenzied activity, from models scrambling between hair and makeup stations to stylists and beauty reps ensuring optimal coverage. Outside of the glam room, the production team hustles to keep the day on track, moving quickly to resolve high-priority issues. Finding a moment of mindfulness in this environment seems almost impossible, but for NYFW veterans, it’s a necessity.
The Importance of Mindfulness
Being mindful means staying present and fully engaged in the moment, which is particularly challenging in such a high-pressure environment. However, taking a moment to pause and breathe can greatly enhance productivity and overall well-being.
The Benefit of Staying Organized
One of the most effective ways to remain calm is by staying organized. Take it from @fatimasees, who says, “Knowing your products and mount the madness around you allows me to work quickly and efficiently.” Preparation and organization can save precious moments and mental energy, making the experience smoother for all involved.
The Power of Music
Music often serves as an auditory escape from the chaotic surroundings. @aokileesimmons finds solace in music, stating, “Music, it’s the only way to calm me down.” Similarly, @daii.zyy mentions, “My best way to decompress while on set is to tune in with the music they’re playing.” The right playlist can provide a rhythmic backdrop that helps professionals stay focused and calm.
Meditation and Deep Breathing
For those who prefer a more introspective approach, meditation and deep breathing can be incredibly effective. @iamyasminwarsame recommends meditation as her go-to strategy for remaining composed. On the other hand, @divine.laboratory opts for deep breaths and a forward-thinking mindset, sharing, “I take deep breaths and know that it’ll be over soon.”
Setting Clear Expectations
Clarity and organization can significantly impact how smoothly things run backstage. @arianascanvas emphasizes, “I think it’s really important to set expectations for the beginning so everyone is on the same page.” Whether it’s ensuring the models’ hair is safe or staying organized, setting clear expectations helps everyone involved work more efficiently.
Finding Passion Amidst the Chaos
Amidst all the hustle, it’s easy to forget why you’re there in the first place. @kendall.baisden says, “If I feel like I’m getting overwhelmed I pause and take it all in. I remember that this is a passion and connect with the people I’m working with.” Finding meaning in your work can rekindle your passion and help you navigate stressful situations.
The Mood-Setting Power of Music Genres
Different music genres can have various effects on your mood and energy levels. According to @everything_alliej, 90s R&B Hip Hop helps set the mood and keep energy levels high.
| Individual | Strategy |
|---|---|
| @aokileesimmons | Listening to music |
| @fatimasees | Staying organized |
| @daii.zyy | Using music to decompress |
| @iamyasminwarsame | Meditation |
| @divine.laboratory | Deep breathing |
| @arianascanvas | Setting clear expectations |
| @everything_alliej | Listening to 90s R&B Hip Hop |
| @kendall.baisden | Connecting with passion |
Detailed Breakdown of Mindfulness Techniques
Staying Organized
The first step to finding a moment of calm amidst the chaos is to stay organized. This applies not only to your physical space but also to your mental preparation. Ensure that every tool, product, and piece of equipment is in its designated place. By doing so, you minimize the time spent searching for things, reducing stress and increasing efficiency.
Benefits of Music
Music is a universal language that can profoundly affect our emotional state. Selecting a playlist suited to your mood can help you remain present and focused. The rhythm and melody can serve as a backdrop to your activities, making the demanding environment of NYFW more manageable.
Meditative Practices
Meditation doesn’t necessarily require a quiet room and a yoga mat. Simple mindful practices, like taking a few deep breaths or practicing gratitude for a couple of minutes, can do wonders. A minute or two of closing your eyes and focusing on your breathing can significantly lower stress levels, enabling you to perform more effectively.
Setting Clear Expectations
Clear communication of roles and responsibilities ensures that everyone knows what to expect. This not only makes the workflow smoother but also alleviates unnecessary stress. When everyone is on the same page, it creates a harmonious work environment, allowing for more effective teamwork.
Passion and Connection
Amidst all the chaos, reminding yourself why you do what you do can offer a grounding moment. Connecting with your passion and the people around you can create a more meaningful and less stressful experience. Take a moment to acknowledge the effort and creativity behind every task, and you’ll find a renewed sense of purpose.
Genre-Specific Music
Different genres of music can elicit various emotional responses. While 90s R&B Hip Hop might energize and uplift, classical music might help in calming nerves and focusing the mind. Experiment with different genres to find what works best for you in different aspects of your work.
Practical Tips for Implementing Mindfulness Techniques
Prepare the Night Before
Whether you’re a stylist, makeup artist, or part of the production team, preparation is key. Lay out your tools, review your schedule, and mentally map out your day. By doing so, you begin your day with a game plan, reducing potential stressors.
Create a Personal Space
No matter how small, create a personal corner where you can retreat for a moment. This could be a quiet spot backstage or even just a mental space where you can take a few deep breaths.
Use Mindfulness Apps
There are numerous apps available designed to make mindfulness practice easy and accessible. Apps like Headspace or Calm guide you through short meditation sessions that can easily fit into your tight schedule.
Practice Gratitude
Take a moment to appreciate the efforts of others and acknowledge your own contributions. A simple “thank you” can go a long way in fostering a positive environment.
Stay Hydrated and Nourished
Physical well-being is closely tied to mental well-being. Ensure you stay hydrated and have healthy snacks on hand to maintain your energy levels.
Conclusion: Finding Your Own Moment of Stillness
In the high-energy environment of NYFW, mindfulness may seem like an elusive goal. However, it’s not just achievable but also essential for maintaining well-being and productivity. Through staying organized, leveraging the power of music, meditative practices, setting clear expectations, reconnecting with your passion, and choosing the right music, you can find your own moments of stillness and mastery amidst the bustling chaos.
Taking these lessons from seasoned NYFW runners, you too can find your strategies that resonate with your unique needs and situations. So the next time you find yourself overwhelmed, take a deep breath and remember that mindfulness is just a moment away.