2016-06-30
Sports psychologist Jerry Lynch trains elite athletes to use mind-body techniques to enhance their performance in sport and their well-being in life. The author of many books, including the recent "Running Within," co-authored with Warren Scott, and the now classic "Thinking Body, Dancing Mind," co-authored with Chungliang Al Huang, Lynch has advice for winter weekend athletes.

Step One
What to do
Empty your mind, leave behind any baggage by watching your breath for three minutes.

Why
"A wrung out sponge can absorb more water, but a sopping wet sponge can't absorb. Your mind can't visualize clearly unless you have first emptied it."

Step Two
What to do
Now visualize yourself successfully performing your sport in as much graphic detail as you can muster. Deploy all your senses. Recall the best moments when you really loved your sport and how you felt to doing it.

Why
From the moment those skates go on your feet, or you've clicked your boots into those skis, you've entered a familiar world. By rehearsing it, you're ready to make it happen.

Step Three
What to do
Just do it!

Why
Because you've pictured "in advance images of being courageous, fearless, calm, prepared, happy, and having fun," Lynch says, "when you go out and play, the play will mimic what you have rehearsed daily."
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