Stress is something none of us can avoid, whether the stressor is a 400-pound defensive lineman barreling down your neck or an ambitious project deadline from a boss giving you a hefty business project. So, the best thing we can do is find efficient and effective ways to manage stress, regardless of the stressor. We have found, meditation is one of the best ways to do so.
One of the most important things we can do for ourselves in these difficult times is to sit and breathe – take a little bit of time every day to rest and relax and focus our minds. Meditation can be an incredible way to calm your mind and relax your body during periods of stress and uncertainty, so I've put together a few of my favorite tips for healthy, stress-relieving meditation.
Allow yourself to slow down
As news and information is changing at such an overwhelming pace, remember to slow down and anchor yourself so as to not be swept away. Start by committing even as little as 5 minutes a day to relaxing your mind and calming your body through simple meditation.
Breathe Fully and Deeply
In times of uncertainty and stress, we often have a tendency to breathe very shallowly. Shallow breathing leads to the body releasing cortisol, which is the stress hormone that primes the body for fight, flee or freeze. When you breathe deeply however, your body releases endorphins, which calm the body of the exterior stressor and bring about stronger focus. We talk a lot about pliability and mobility in the physical side of training but did you know that your breathing muscles must be as pliable as the rest of your body! Find a comfortable position and really pay attention to your core – feel it expand and contract fully with each breath and then feel the rush of endorphins calm you down and slow your heart rate.
STAY LASER FOCUSED
The greats, such as Tom Brady or Drew Brees often speak about having "laser focus" both on the field and during times of stress. We need to recognize that all different types of thoughts will float through your mind like clouds floating in the sky. With laser focus, attend to the breath and sensations within your body. Do your best to really lock your focus in on your breathing, and keep your mind from wandering away from the present moment.
The best way to train this is by using the mental warm-up and mental exercise training protocols via our partners, the FocusBand and FocusBand Golf devices and mobile application.
POSITIVE SELF TALK AND SPEAK TO GOD
