Physiologic Effects of Mindfulness and Applications for Athletes

Most of us, almost all of us, benefit from physiologic improvements. That's why people exercise, stretch or do yoga, and treat conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. 

But far fewer advance ourselves with mind training for both mental and physical physiologic benefits. What benefits accrue? 

Reduced perceived work stress and self-reported improved sleep

Improved attention. Study compares students receiving mindfulness training or nutrition education

Improved brain structure in the anterior cingulate cortex (brain) involving self-regulation

Mild reduction in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure

Modest metabolic improvements in weight, blood sugar, and lipids 

Improved immunity with enhanced antibody response to flu shots and fewer circulating inflammatory chemicals (cytokines). 

Reduced stress hormone levels (cortisol) in medical students...

Mild reduction in anxiety, depression, and blood pressure in heart disease patients

Improved attention and reading in patients with dyslexia and attention deficits

Miscellaneous: improved performance on (GRE) testing via better memory and reading comprehension.  

But we're young athletes...what's in it for us? 

Headspace lists 4 reasons (with references) why athletes should practice mindfulness: 

Coaches and athletes search for sustained competitive advantage. Why would we ignore established mind-body relationships?

The Huffington Post shares 10 Reasons Why Every Athlete in the World Should Meditate. Mindfulness helps athletes to fuller engagement, focus, coping, emotional stability, rest, and recovery. 

"But I don't know how" or "I don't have time" or "I need guidance." Here is a link to some FREE guided meditations from UCLA. 

You wouldn't seek to be a champion without training your body. Are you willing to surrender because of less than a championship mind?