Meditation for Performance

Meditation may conjure up imagine of people sitting cross-legged on the floor in a trance, but it can be much more simple. 

One definition is: to engage in contemplation or reflection. And there are many different styles of meditation. This email barely scratches the surface on how far you can go. 

Meditation has been widely studied and the benefits include stress reduction, improved sleep, improved immune system and a better sense of self. 

So, it makes perfect sense that a meditation practice can benefit the athlete. 

This study found that athletes who practice meditation for a few minutes a day may become better able to withstand the mental demands of hours of strenuous physical training.

And if you search for scholarly articles about meditation and its effect on performance, there are TONS to sift through…obviously, this stuff works!

So, how do you get started? 

Experts say you should do it first thing in the morning. 

Really, it’s all about being mindful and focusing on breathing. There are many breathing techniques…but you can keep it simple. Take deep breaths, focusing on your diaphragm and make sure to have a long exhale. You can focus on a certain point, like the air coming in and out of your nose. 

Start small…just three minutes until it becomes routine, then add three more and so on until you achieve around 20 minutes. 

You can sit in a chair, on a sofa, at your desk…anything comfortable as long as you are upright. 

It takes practice - hang in there. 

You may really find that this practice sets your tone for the day and lead to athletic success. 

Wishing you calmness and centerdness...