Meditation By Danielle Du Toit

Description: Meditation has been used in Eastern practices for over 2000 years, for its impact on the mind, body and soul. It involves the exercising of an individual’s attention. It gives the mind a rest and allows for a temporary shut-down of cognitive processes (such as decision making).

Improving Performance:  One of the most important factors to consider while meditating is concentration. This helps to control the natural tendency of brain flow from one idea to the next, and helps to eliminate any random thoughts that continue to appear in the mind. It allows you to focus on one specific thing, and therefore enhances the chance for optimal performance.  Meditation is also a powerful arousal-reduction technique, but it is important not to immediately meditate after physical activity. This is because your brain is still very active and stimulated from exercise.

An athlete that uses this technique: Deena Kastor, Olympic Bronze Medalist and American Record Holding Marathon Runner, has used meditation for more than 2 decades. “Being a professional athlete can elicit anxiety, stress and nerves, which can be a drain on my energy,” she says. “With meditation, I can get in a calm state and perform with focus so I can compete optimally.”