If we love the excitement generated by fashion weeks, we also dread its’ crazy moments. Between disillusionment and euphoria, frenzied running and concentration, adaptability and frustration, how can you manage your stress when you’re working in fashion, an industry that is both bubbling and exhausting?
Stress is often symptomatic of an apprehension to get out of one’s comfort zone (overwork, fear of the unknown, setbacks). Despite its strongly negative connotation, it is nevertheless the driving force necessary to surpass oneself. Armed with some basic advice, tame the indomitable and learn how to transform its possible danger of toxicity into a real catalyst of positive energy!
Stress Management
Take care of your primary needs to avoid side effects:
The action of eating, sleeping or breathing is natural, but the regulation of your stress depends on how well they are regulated.
By adopting a healthy diet, you provide your body with the necessary nutrients and vitamins. Do you work in fashion? Begin the job with the same regime as an athlete preparing for a marathon!
Respect the sleep rhythms imposed by your internal clock, it knows you best. Disconnect yourself from any digital object a few hours before falling asleep. Did a nocturnal event (rehearsal, fashion show) disrupt your usual rhythm? Try to give yourself a restful nap during the day.
Breathe deeply several times during the day. Alternate natural rhythm and a series of deep inhalations and exhalations. With the extra oxygen, tension is reduced, chest muscles relax, stress is reduced, and you’re more productive!
Hussein Chalayan’s LED connected dress
Anticipate the unexpected:
Be conscious that the thread of stress is maintained by an uncomfortable feeling of no longer being able to control time. So act accordingly, prioritize the important things, anticipate the unexpected. The fashion industry is subject to a strong degree of seasonality, so you know in advance which periods of the year will be the most booked. Be organized, plan downtime so that unexpected events don’t take over and make you feel uncomfortable.
Taking care of your head means taking care of your body:
Some will find their balance in intensive sports activities (jogging, squash, crossfit), others in softer practices (Pilates, yoga, sophrology). Release endorphins, dopamine, adrenaline, whatever the activity, give yourself moments of absolute plenitude.
Stop being a victim of stress, tame it, because it can also boost creativity. Some designers even place it at the heart of their profession. If Hussein Chalayan puts in scene the Led connected dress (permitting to measure in real time the stress level of the models during a fashion show), Francesca Rosella and Ryan Genz dare, as for them, a dress that changes color according to the emotions.
IFA Paris does not yet offer modules dedicated to stress management, but you can however start to experiment with futuristic creations by joining our Short Course – Future Fashion Tech program about fashion and its’ technologies.