The second of thirteen principles which is shown through my research to be imperative to the effortless performance of complex movement under pressure is as follows:
A quiet mind allows the body to move with fluidity, effortlessness and power and also enhances the performance of accurate and precise motion, especially when under pressure.
We don’t usually associate fluidity with precision but that’s exactly what you get when you train your mind~body connection with the Chi-Performance methodology – a rare ability to enjoy movement that just flows in an effortless and natural way and which allows you to be free enough in your mind and body to perform your best routine or to play your best game.
Why is this so?
Chi-Performance is about centuries-old training principles based on the martial arts and meditative traditions of the eastern world. As such, we are able to consciously develop an interesting space between trying yet not trying too hard, thinking but not thinking too much and being athletic but relaxed.
We’re also training the right internal conditions (in preparation to perform) in the moments of stillness before motion occurs; this stillness and especially the quietening of the internal dialogue before attempting any complex movement is a quality shared by champion athletes of all sports as well as dancers and musicians who have entered ‘the zone.’
You can appreciate this is a very different approach from the mainstream one which for the most part is divided into either technical instruction or mental game coaching; but training the eastern way allows us to work on the unique ability to bring mind and body together as one – and it is this ability which then allows the signal about intended motion to go straight to the motor system (rather than getting hijacked by the analytical mind) and which allows the body to move with freedom yet precision.
t’s quite amazing what can be achieved when you use your mind and body to best effect and stop getting in your own way!
Here’s some feedback from one of my followers and reader of my eBook “Stillness in Motion – An Exploration of Tai Chi” (Stardrum Books)
“The parallels between the ancient forms of practice and what I’ve discovered over the past few decades of endurance sports are amazing. It’s neat that Jayne understands and writes about things I’ve experienced, but never had the words to describe.” – Christopher Bergland, Ultra-Endurance Athlete, Guinness World Record Holder for treadmill running and three-time Triple Ironman winner
