Downhill Skiing -- The Mind-Body Connection

Today, you'll be introduced to the three essentials ofto develop a positive attitude so you can reach your
a proper mind set, namely, motivation, visualization,goals for the season.
and focus. Get mentally tough in these areas and
your confidence level will soar. In addition, you'll be
able to jettison any anxieties you may have about
downhill skiing.Visualization
The expert skier understands the virtues of building aVisualization is another technique that you can use to
strong body, but he or she also needs the right mindprepare yourself for that tough mogul run or steep
set for skiing. You need to be well-prepared for theslope. You need to learn how to visualize or form a
mind games that are associated with skiing in themental picture of the complete run before you start.
expert zones where the control of one's mind isIn addition, learning to relax will serve to keep a lid on
often as important as the strength of one's body.your anxieties. Ski racers and aerialists often use
these methods just before the beginning of a race
or competition.
Yes, there is definitely a mind-body connection in
downhill skiing! You won't need a treatise on the
latest break through in the psychological aspects ofFocus
fear to conquer steeps, trees, and moguls. The old
adage, you have nothing to fear but fear itself,
applies to expert skiing as well. The right mind set will
serve to get you psyched up, keep your anxieties inFocusing allows you to break up the run into smaller
check, and let you focus completely on the task attasks so you can zoom in on the next two or three
hand.turns. This eliminates the fear of the complete run,
and also
serves to keep your head up and eyes looking ahead
The Three Essentials of a Proper Mind Setat the next obstacle in your path.
Motivation, visualization, and focus are three of the
essential skills the expert skier needs to master the
subconscious mind and become tougher mentally.Summing Up
Let's consider each one of these requirements in turn.
The lesson entitled The Right Mind Set in the Skills of
Motivationthe Expert Skier expands on the three essentials so
you know how, when, and where to apply the
techniques. Ski coaches, instructors and sports
psychologists all agree that mental conditioning can go
Being motivated will put you in control of youra long way toward making you the skier you always
thoughts. You need to tell yourself over and overdreamed you could be. Now is the time to train your
that you're in charge, not the ski hill. This will help youmind to keep your anxieties in check.