When you were a kid and threw temper tantrums, your mother, father, or immediate caregiver probably gave you some of the most simple, yet scientifically sound advice: “just breathe.”

The human brain needs two primary sources to remain fueled up: oxygen and glucose.

During a game or competition, in order for you to strategically think, to be a problem-solver, and to run the gameplan that your coaches have implemented, your brain has to literally be firing on all cylinders. If your brain is not getting enough oxygen, you are leaving heaps of potential on the table. 

One of the most powerful ways to TAKE and/or REGAIN control is through intentional breathing. As an athlete, breathing is the proverbial brake, steering wheel, and accelerator for Performance.

If you have ever participated in, or observed any elite performance, you likely realized that those performers were in control of their breathing… complete control. 

When you observe an athlete having a meltdown and things start spiraling, pay attention to his or her breathing. Is it erratic? Uncontrolled? Are they chest-breathing?

History Lesson:

During some of the most egregious times in human history, Viktor Frankl observed a powerful human phenomena. Viktor Frankl, unfortunately, was a prisoner in Auschwitz during Nazi regime. He was able to witness and survive many bone-chilling events.

One of his famous quotes that has endured the test of time is the following:

“Between stimulus and response, there is a space. In that space is our power to choose. In our response lies our growth and our freedom…” -Viktor Frankl

The reason I share this story is because many Athletes who have quick tempers, or who are knee-jerk in the way that they respond…are NOT creating space. And the easiest way to create space is to BREATHE.

The biggest difference between stellar and mediocre performances is usually in creating space.… this space is often created by breathing, and understanding ‘where’ our power comes from. 

Resources:

If you need help learning critical mental skills such as diaphragmatic breathing, and others, be sure to get a copy of my book, Own The Pieces: The Heartfelt Guide To Mental Performance.

This book will help you lay a solid foundation for your mental performance. 

All the best,

Josiah Igono, PhD