A loose definition of an athlete encompasses all humans who engage in movement within this world. However, our athletic prowess varies along a spectrum. At one end, we find individuals grappling with physical challenges and limitations, yet still recognizing their accomplishments and striving for improvement.


At the other end, we have professional or Olympic athletes, competing as their work, while with intermediate levels of athletes and weekend warriors who are also striving for their peak performance. Throughout my experience working with athletes at various levels, I have consistently observed that achieving a state of “Zen Mind” is crucial for all. When we lose our presence and focus, we tend to lose our inner peace along with it.

You know what happens when you lose your inner peace! That was a rhetorical question, but we both know it isn’t pretty.

 

A brief recap of my definition of the Zen State: it is characterized by peace and calmness. However, not all sports necessitate a “peaceful and calm energy.” Consider the downhill ski racer, who may not be able to float in peaceful bliss as he/she is running through the giant salmon gates at 80 miles an hour down the hill. Similarly, the left tackle, regardless of whether it is defensive or offensive, will not perform well if they are calm and relaxed. Yet this football player still needs to be present, with an intense focus, that will move him to quickly go between proactive and reactive.