Meditation for Production Managers

With uncertainty about commissions, shrinking production budgets, and daily bad news stories about the future of the screen industries, it’s unsurprising that so many production staff are feeling anxious about the future. A new survey from film and TV union Bectu of nearly 4,000 freelance film and TV workers outlined the impact that recent US strike action has had on their employment, finances and mental health, with 9 in 10 worried about their financial security, and 6 in 10 reporting that they are struggling with their mental health as a result of loss of work and financial worries. And its not just the unstable job market, a report last month by The Film and TV Charity revealed that 94% of those working in film and TV reported a decline in their mental health after the tragic events in Israel and Palestine.

As Production Managers, it has long been recognised that our responsibilities go beyond ensuring that the team meets production targets, maintains editorial standards, and operates efficiently; we are also responsible for taking care of the crew, checking in on them when they are stressed, and looking for ways to ease their burden when shoots overrun or productions encounter crises. The high-pressure nature of film and television can often lead to stress, anxiety, and burnout, even for those ‘lucky’ enough to have reasonably stable contracts and the welcome advancements in the duty of care that have taken place for on-screen participants over the last few years are equally crucial for production workers.  It's important to remember that even the most experienced production staff need some care, too. This is where meditation can play a crucial role in helping you manage your mental and emotional well-being. Remember, you can't pour from an empty cup.

Why Meditation?

Meditation is a powerful tool that can help you reduce stress and anxiety, improve your mental clarity, and achieve emotional stability. By practising meditation, you can train your attention and awareness to focus on the present moment, leading to a sense of calm and relaxation. Moreover, meditation has been shown to positively impact overall well-being, making it an essential practice for anyone looking to improve their mental and emotional health.

When people face real concerns about how they will pay their mortgage and witness real horrors in the news, discussing meditation may feel flippant or out of touch. Still, while carving out time for meditation might not improve your immediate situation on a practical level, it will help regulate your breathing, slow down the rising panic and remind you that despite what is happening to your industry or others in the world, you deserve care.

Here are just some of the benefits of Meditation

•   Reduces stress and anxiety

• Increases focus and concentration

• Enhances creativity and problem-solving skills

• Improves decision-making abilities

There are many different types of meditation, so finding a practice that works for you is essential. Whether it's a few minutes of deep breathing in an empty edit suite (yes, this was how I started meditating many moons ago) or a longer guided meditation taken first thing in the morning (before reading the news or checking your emails), making time for this practice can make a big difference in your sense of well being.

How to get started (Spoiler alert-You don't need special yoga pants, incense or a purpose-built room).

• Find a quiet space (this might be the utility room, an empty office at work or even a park bench).

• Sit in a comfortable position (this doesn't have to be on the floor or crossed-legged)

• Focus on your breath. It's amazing how just a few deep breaths can calm your mind and reduce feelings of stress or anxiety. In addition, paying attention to how your breath feels can help you connect with your body and become more mindful overall.

• Use guided meditation apps or videos. Try this one by my good friend Chelsea.

Incorporating meditation into your daily routine can be a game-changer for Production Managers. It can help you stay calm, focused, and productive, even in high-stress situations. So why give it a try and experience the benefits for yourself?

Disclaimer-I am not a qualified healthcare professional, and Meditation is a supportive modality, not a cure, for significant mental or physical health issues. Please consult your GP if you feel overwhelmed, unwell or cannot cope.