Workshop: Nervous System Literacy for Sustainable Creative Careers with Lois Hayes

​This workshop introduces the basics of nervous system literacy and why it matters for sustainable creative work in the music industry. We’ll explore how burnout is physiological, how cycles of hyperactivation and shutdown affect creativity and energy, and how industry pressures shape our nervous system patterns.

​Through short teaching segments, guided exercises and practical regulation tools, participants will learn how to interrupt the hyperdrive-to-crash cycle and support their nervous system before meetings, performances or difficult conversations.

​The session is designed to be accessible and ADHD-friendly, with clear frameworks, short exercises and practical takeaways.

​Sharing is optional, and participants can engage quietly if they prefer. Participants will leave with practical tools to support their nervous system and greater confidence to share ideas and build sustainable creative careers.

​Get to know Lois before the session:

​Lois Hayes is a somatic practitioner working at the intersection of nervous system health and creative practice. After more than a decade leading global digital campaigns in the music industry at Ninja Tune and !K7 Records for artists including Bonobo, Laura Marling, Phoebe Bridgers and the legendary DJ-Kicks series, she retrained over the course of 3 years in somatic approaches to support the well-being of artists and creative professionals.

​Drawing on science-based methods including Somatic Experiencing, Lois helps people working in high-pressure creative environments navigate burnout, overwhelm and creative blocks, while developing a more sustainable relationship with their work and bodies. She has delivered workshops and talks internationally at events including Music Most Wanted, Garbicz Festival and more.