Mind Over Matter Approach: Unlocking Peak Performance

Practitioners of Somato Emotional Release refer to Energy Cysts (EC) as being the residual localized energy which has been introduced into a client’s body by external physical trauma, emotional trauma, pathogenic microbes of any type, exposure to excessive radiation and toxic substances. If the body is incapable of releasing or dissipating this externally induced energy, it remains as an EC – a form of disorganized, negative energy. John Upledger (CranioSacral Therapy. Illinois, Eastland Press. 1983) states that body cells and tissues (muscle, bone, teeth, fascia or other connective tissues or viscera) have the ability to retain memories of experienced trauma, and that the memory’s emotional energy also gets stored and may get stimulated by the placing of a therapist’s hands on the area of the emotional trauma.

Kahlil Gibran said, ”Pain is the bitter pill of the inner physician that cracks the shell of our understanding.” A seed can only grow into a flower when it has swelled and died. Likewise, our own ability to create newness in our lives comes from periods of crisis that force us to put (some of) our old behaviours and beliefs to rest. (Borysenko p. 83)

Anxiety, fear, painful memory, anticipation, stuck ego beliefs/protection, toxins, allergies, pollutants etc. can all create the effect of reversal. For some, it can have links with an original sense of not getting unconditional love or acceptance – therefore some level of self-rejection may occur and a belief that one doesn’t deserve success/wealth etc. (Janov p. 71)

Imagine what would be happening to your energy system if your thoughts, when in any form of competition, (running for example), turned to self-doubts; “I don’t know if I can do this.” “I’m alongside John S. and he is much faster than me – I shouldn’t be here – I’ve gone off too fast – can’t hold the pace – have never gone this far/fast before.” “It’s too hot/cold/far/hilly/rough/windy – I never race well in these conditions.” “I hate a sprint finish – have never beaten anyone in a sprint before – what’s the point – suffering sucks!” “I’m at 20 miles, this is where everyone tells me I’m going to `Hit the Wall`.”, and so on. It is worthwhile using AK to test your resistance when you make those statements aloud, without even being in a race situation! Check it out also on any negative statements you may have found yourself using regarding any situations that you may have encountered or are currently involved in.

For runners, I suggest that a clearer and more practical demonstration can be noted when timing oneself on say a hard 800m or one kilometre run, while constantly repeating in one’s head the words, “I can do it.” Then, after sufficient rest, run the same distance with the same level of intensity, but repeating the words, “I can’t do it.” Then check to see the difference in time and how you feel after the two runs. Try it again a week later, but reverse the order of the statements. My guess is you will notice a difference in the times and the level of comfort both mentally and physically.

When physical attributes such as speed, stamina, strength, suppleness and skill are virtually equal, the advantage in a closely contested race lies with the athlete who has the better mental edge. The objective of psychological preparation is optimum arousal of the Athlete’s mental, physical and spiritual resources – along with a realistic assessment of his/her capabilities and training or racing goals. Self-oriented thoughts such as the fear of finishing last or not running up to expectations are negative, destructive and purposeless. Conversely, task oriented thoughts are constructive, positive and purposeful. They reduce anxiety, fear and stress levels. They enable the athlete to fulfill his/her potential and to do justice to training efforts. ('Mind over Matter'. Derek Parker. Veteran Athletics Magazine. Spring 1997, p. 23)