Simplest Way to Improve Your Mental Game

I recently read an article in the Wall Street Journal about athletes and mental game skills.  I didn't even know the WSJ had a section for sports.  Wow!.

Anyway, in this article they talk about some very interesting things including one of THE simplest ways to improve your mental game - deep cleansing breaths.

That's right.  If you've ever paid attention closely enough, you'll see that a lot of professional and collegiate athletes use this technique.  Actually I've seen a lot of high school aged athletes do it too now that I'm aware of the fact that it's a great mental game trick!

I can't tell you enough how much this ONE strategy can help improve your mental toughness and your performance.  Most recently I noticed that Danielle Lawrie does it before every pitch.

Seriously, if breathing techniques can help you remain calm during something as miraculous as giving birth, trust me, it works in softball too. 

If this is not something you already do.  Give it a try.  Also, try observing athletes and see just how many use this technique to stay calm, confident, and focused during competition.

Is this something you'll try?  Or something you already do?

Leave me a comment here and let me know!

~ Stacie Mahoe