Monkey mind has you scattered? two minute fix

As a hockey player, have you ever found yourself in the heat of a game, feeling scattered or unable to concentrate? How do you handle those moments when distractions overwhelm you?

You're not alone in this struggle. Many athletes face similar challenges. The journey to becoming an elite player demands a tremendous amount of focus, much like a sharpshooter honing their aim. Yet, in today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, sustaining that concentration can feel like trying to catch ~smoke~ with your bare hands. Have you ever noticed how easy it is to lose focus with notifications buzzing from your phone and social media pulling you in? It’s no wonder so many athletes find it hard to develop high-level skills.

But what if I told you there’s a simple tool that can help you sharpen your focus? Meditation is like a gym for your mind. Just as lifting weights builds muscle, regular meditation strengthens your mental endurance. Imagine being able to snap back into focus during a crucial moment in a game—how would that impact your performance? Think of meditation as conditioning for your brain, preparing it to manage the intensity of high-pressure situations on the ice.

All it requires is just two minutes a day. Here’s how to get started:

1. Find Your Space: Each morning, choose a quiet place where you can sit comfortably without distractions. This could be anywhere from your bedroom to a peaceful spot outside.

   
   

2. Get Comfortable: Sit in a comfortable position—maybe cross-legged on the floor or in a chair with your feet flat on the ground. What feels best for you?

   
   

3. Focus on Your Breath: Close your eyes gently and take a deep breath in through your nose. Feel the air fill your lungs. Now, slowly exhale through your mouth. Can you feel the calmness starting to wash over you?

   
   

4. Acknowledge Distractions: As thoughts arise—whether they are about the game, your day, or any worries—notice them without judgment. Then, gently guide your focus back to your breath. Each time you do this, think of it as a mental rep, much like perfecting your wrist shot. Does it feel challenging at first?

   
   

5. Reflect: After two minutes, slowly open your eyes and take a moment to notice how you feel. Have you noticed a shift in your mindset? You’ve just taken the first step in training your mind for greater focus.

   
   

This practice helps train your brain to manage the “monkey mind”—that relentless chatter that often gets in the way of your performance, much like trying to keep your eyes on the puck during a chaotic play. Over time, with consistent practice, you’ll gain the ability to recognize negative thoughts. How might it feel to replace those with something positive, turning any mistake into motivation for growth?

Meditation also acts as a spiritual defense against anything that seeks to rob you of your full glory. It empowers you to take control of your thoughts, much like how a goalie controls the game from the crease. As we navigate this journey together, I’ll leave you with one of my favorite verses from the Bible. It beautifully underscores the importance of mastering our minds:

“For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (for the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;”

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭10‬:‭3‬-‭5‬ ‭

By embracing meditation, you can cultivate a focused, empowered mindset that sets you up for success on the ice. How will you start your meditation journey today?