Beta blockers and your health

The subject of beta blockers can be a rather sensitive one amongst performers and doctors alike.

If you are considering taking beta blockers (with or without a prescription) to get ahead in your next audition, think twice. With possible side-effects such as dizziness, fatigue, diarrhea, impotence, and even anaphylactic shock (sudden death!), beta-blockers are far from a cure-all!

As performers (especially in competitve environments) we strive to achieve to our full potential. We can easily fall into the trap of thinking:

“There is so much riding on this audition! If I win this audition, I will get a, b, and c, and will prove to myself and others that I am worthy! Think of all of the repercussions!”

or…

“If I lose or screw up, what will people think of me? I won’t get a, b, or c, and I’ll be a failure! Think of all of the repercussions!”

These ‘language-based thought processes are an extension of the spoiled brat of your psyche – your ego – which is hard at work.

Instead of risking some of the many side-effects of beta blockers to ‘calm you down’ in high-pressure performing situations, try Going Peripheral, the Qi Gong basic standing meditation, Pre-Performance rituals and mantras, or any other technique from Part Two of “Performing in The Zone”.

The techniques in “Performing in The Zone” are designed to treat the cause of miscalibrated performance arousal, and get you quickly and easily into an ideal state of mind for your performing situations, without the ill-effects of prescription drugs.

At best, beta blockers can only partially treat anxiety symptoms, and may end up causing any one (or more) of the following dangerous side effects in YOUR body:

Rash, slowed heart rate, low blood pressure, cold extremities, worsening of heart failure, fainting, rapid heart beats, asthma, diabetes, dizziness, fatigue, headache, depression, sleep disturbances, nightmares, hallucinations, short term memory loss, high or low blood sugar, stomach ache, flatulence, constipation, nausea, diarrhea, dry mouth, vomiting, heartburn, bloating, impotence or decreased libido, difficulty urinating, bronchospasm, cough, wheezes, nasal stuffiness, joint pain, muscle cramps, and anaphylactic shock (sudden unconsciousness or death).

So, instead of putting yourself at risk by waging chemical warfare on your body, go for the natural approach. Use the techniques in “Performing in The Zone” – they work! In addition, follow through with ‘The 12 Week Performance Success Programme’ in Part Three of The Zone book. You won’t need a prescrpition, and there are no dangerous side effects!

Disclaimer: The information above is not in any way intended to replace the advice of your qualified health professional. Should you have any questions regarding prescription medication you should contact your doctor or pharmacist. If you have taken Beta blockers and are concerned that you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, contact your local health professional, hospital, or emergency services number immediately.