Hey there, fellow ravers! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or new to the scene, you may have noticed that the recovery process after a rave changes as you get older. But don’t worry; I have a realistic guide to help you rave responsibly, have an unforgettable time, and recover like a pro. Let’s explore some of the best ways to care for our bodies and recover from the physical demands of music festivals.
From staying hydrated to getting enough sleep, we must nourish our bodies to ensure that we are in excellent physical condition to keep the party going.
Growing Up Without Losing the Groove
I’ve been attending music festivals for almost eight years now, and I can attest that recovering from a night of non-stop beats is not always easy. I’m 26 now and grew up attending many alternative and punk events like Warped Tour and Self-Help. However, in 2016, I was introduced to the exciting world of festivals and raves. It has become evident that recovering from an evening out can be difficult sometimes. Despite the thrill and excitement of attending these shows, prioritizing our health ensures we keep our stamina high and recover faster.
Navigating the Challenges of Aging in the Rave Scene
As we get older, it can be challenging to keep up with the fast-paced and energetic environment of the rave scene. It’s not uncommon to feel drained and worn out after a night of dancing and partying. We may face physical limitations, difficulty staying up late, and feeling out of place. It’s understandable to feel overwhelmed and unsure how to navigate these obstacles, but know that you’re not alone. There are ways to enjoy the music and community while caring for yourself too. With the right strategies and techniques, we can maintain our stamina and bounce back from the most intense festival experiences. Let’s explore together how we can make the most of raving while honoring our bodies and minds.
Pre-Show Prep: Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!
Before the bass even drops, hydration is your best friend! Drinking plenty of water is crucial to keeping yourself hydrated and energized for the whole event. In addition to water, you can also drink electrolyte-rich beverages like Gatorade Zero, Sugar-Free Liquid IV, or All Natural Raveraide to replenish essential minerals. These drinks can be your secret weapon for staying hydrated pre-, during, and post-rave.
But hydration is not the only key to a successful event experience; proper nutrition is equally important. It’s essential to fuel up with a nourishing meal to keep you going all day—no more surviving on just one chicken tender! Fueling up with nutrient-dense meals as much as possible is crucial for longevity at the show. Aim for at least one solid meal before the show to keep you fueled and ready to dance.
By making sure you are well-hydrated and fueled up with the right foods, you’ll be ready to appreciate the event to the fullest.
During the Madness: Protect Those Precious Ears and Feet!
Investing in high-fidelity earplugs can help preserve your hearing. Your future self will thank you later! Comfortable shoes are a must-have, especially for outdoor festivals. I rotate between my Nikes and combat boots.
“Okay, but what about platforms?” Opt for well-worn and flat platforms to keep your feet happy while dancing. If you need extra support, consider wrapping your feet with athletic tape and wearing thick socks. Your feet will appreciate it after hours of dancing. This way, you can fully bask in the experience without sacrificing comfort.
You’ll 100% catch me doing a quick stretch in the back of the crowd and cracking my back too. Take frequent and adequate breaks throughout the event to sustain your energy far past sundown. If you can manage, try to find a small meal or snack inside the festival. Specific events are okay with bringing sealed snacks to munch on inside the venue, while others allow none. It’s important to check all the accepted and prohibited items before each event.
Post-Rave TLC: Magnesium, Melatonin, and Sunshine Therapy
After the party is over and the beats have faded, it’s time to focus on the post-rave self-care and restoration. You can consider taking supplements like magnesium and melatonin to help your body relax, unwind, and fall asleep more easily. Some people recommend taking 5-HTP 24 hours after a night of raving, which can help to restore your serotonin levels. Maintain a consistent and healthy diet alongside regular exercise, to help you recover faster and return to your normal state post-event. My personal post-show favorite is to get some sunlight therapy! Whether you prefer taking a stroll, relaxing outside, or going for a scenic drive, soaking up some rays can work wonders for your post-rave mood. Incorporating these rituals after a rave can help you beat post-rave depression and feel refreshed once again.
Festival Pace Matters
When it comes to festivals, each one has its unique energy and vibe that sets it apart from others. Whether attending the high-energy, non-stop atmosphere of EDC or the more laid-back ambiance of Lightning in a Bottle, it’s vital to prepare accordingly to ensure that you get the most out of your experience. This means taking the time to understand the pace of the festival and adjusting your approach accordingly – this could include the duration and the intensity of each performance and activities provided.
Take breaks when necessary, listen to your body, and stay nourished throughout the event. By adapting your mindset and actions to match the festival’s rhythm, you’ll be able to fully immerse yourself in the experience and enjoy every moment to the fullest.
Who’s This Guide For?
While this guide was intended for experienced festival-goers over 25, new ravers can use this to learn how to take care of and pace themselves too. This guide is for anyone who wants to prioritize their well-being for a sustainable rave lifestyle. It’s aimed at people like you who want to have a good time without compromising their health and wellness. People of all ages and experience levels can apply these valuable tips and insights to their raving lives.
There you have it, my fellow music enthusiasts. This is just a snippet of what raving over 25 is like for some of us. I hope this guide can be helpful for all experience levels and ages in this community. Use these practical tips and advice in whatever capacity works for you. You can care for yourself in so many other ways at shows. What are your pre and post-rave rituals?
Let’s keep the spirit alive, the beats thumping, and our bodies happily grooving for years. See you at the next event!
– Rachel Richter; IG @rachelrichter