MINDFULNESS: Jenny Ebermann joins me on this episode to talk about mindfulness for athletes. Her background is in sports science & sports management, with her sport being basketball. She worked in the sports industry on “the other side” as well, in governance & sport (FIBA), fundraising & advocacy in sports for development programs, and the anti-doping agency (in Canada & Switzerland).

Jenny and I took the time to chat about:

* what is mindfulness and what is it NOT

* brain science and research on using techniques such as mindfulness for athletes

* giving example on mental exercises and how they improve your mental toughness

* the importance of breathing

* our evolutionary instincts and how they are sometimes preventing us from performing better

* getting rid of emotional hijacking, accepting your emotions when being out of your comfort zone

* what influence has the situation of playing abroad

* incorporating mindfulness in an active lifestyle

* effects on your immune system, body health, and well-being

 

Why is mindfulness a useful technique for athletes?

“Through mindfulness, you learn how to accept what comes up without judging and being able to react. Training the brain not to freak out during a competition and to use the adrenaline to perform better and channeling your energy. It is also used for team building, so that diverse teams play together in a harmonious and effective way.”

 

I don’t have time for mindfulness exercises.

Research has shown that 8 weeks of 10-15 minutes a day of mindfulness exercises are enough to change your brain structures. It’s just like gym for your brain. Just like for your body, you need to have a regular, daily practice.

 

Find out more about Mindfulness (for Athletes) and Jenny

Join Jenny’s blog www.jennyebermann.com or join her on her Facebook page 

Jon Kabat-Zinn, the founder of the Mindfulness approach 

 

Jenny’s Advice for Athletes Abroad

Whenever you arrive in a country, don’t start to work or practice directly. Don’t be too harsh on yourself. Observe what is happening around you. Pay close attention to how your body is reacting. Your body will show you. Pay attention to your mood. Do it at your own pace.

“When you arrive abroad, pay attention to your body. Adjust at your own pace.” @bxljenny
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If you enjoyed this episode, feel free to share it with a friend that could benefit. Jenny and I would appreciate it a lot.

Pictures Source: Jenny Ebermann