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In a previous issue, we discussed mental blocks, those mind games that don't let us remember how to do the things we should be able to do. As an example, we used baseball player Chuck Knoblauch and his throwing problems. Of course, this problem doesn't just affect athletes. Everyone goes through something similar, whether it's at home or in the classroom.
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Relaxation exercises, such as yoga, helps to reduce anxiety, no matter what is occurring around you.
Cartoons by Pete Fitzgerald
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According to psychologist Dr. Frank McElroy, people often think too much, instead of being in the "here and now." In other words, if you're a baseball player, JUST PLAY! Instead of thinking about the fans watching you play baseball, concentrate on catching the ball.
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Imaging means playing the "good video" in your mind, the one showing you making the play.
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Of course, that's easier said than done. Here are a few suggestions that may help:
Relaxing
If you're feeling nervous or hyper, yoga and deep breathing exercises will calm you down. Music can also have the same effect. If your little bro is distracting you from your homework, slap on a pair of headphones.
Watch Your Thoughts
Sometimes we convince ourselves we're no good, and then… VOILA, we goof up. Dr. Loew says that although we can't stop these negative thoughts, we can interrupt them. So if you feel a negative thought coming on, stop what you're doing and do something else. If you're doing homework and the answer isn't coming to you, take a break. If you're taking a test, go on to the next question. Don't give negative thoughts time to settle in.
Imaging
Before a performance, such as a dance routine or a big game, pretend your mind is a VCR. Hit the play button and watch the performance in your mind exactly the way you think it should look. If you're a ballplayer, picture how you'll field a hot grounder. Dr. Loew believes Chuck Knoblauch's been playing the "bad" video, the one of him messing up. He needs to hit the eject button and pop in the "good" video, the one of him making the play. The idea is that by going over the vision in your mind you'll automatically do it on the field.
Support From Teammates
The thing that helps most of all is support from your friends and teammates. If they get down on you, you'll press harder and become even more tense. That's a recipe for bobbled balls. But with their support, you won't feel the need to press and you'll become more relaxed. And chances are, you'll succeed.
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