The Mind-Body Connection

There are links between thought processes and motor performance. This is what we call mind-body connection. The mind is extensively involved in everything we do whether we're conscience of it or not.

Focusing concentration, using centering techniques, controlling levels of muscle tension, thinking positively under stressful conditions and learning to trust in our abilities are all mental skills that improve health and physical performance. Anyone can learn these mental skills, but only by implementing proper techniques with a high level of commitment.

More obvious is how mental skills can affect performance. For example, by staying "centered," we can tune out distractions that might interfere with our coordination, timing and power. Also, by ignoring factors that are out of our control, such as crowd noise and the performance of others around us, we can stay focused on the immediate task we need to accomplish.

However, mental skills can also affect general health and even physical appearance. We first need to believe that we can change our physical state. Believing in our strengths and abilities is a learned skill that also requires commitment and practice. Building confidence in ourselves is the cornerstone to creating change in our bodies.

Whether it's mediating, learning to relax or thinking positive, our mind affects our physical self.