Mental As Anything - Episode 19

Send us Fan Mail Zone Performance Day is looming, which means Renee and Justine have reached that delightful point of the physie calendar where you've done the training, you know the syllabus, the performance wear is ready… and now your own brain would like to become involved. And unfortunately, the brain can be mental as anything. So this fortnight, we've called in professional help. Joining us is sports psychologist Gemma Illescas from Always Flying Psychology, who works with athletes on the mental side of performance: confidence, focus, competition nerves, pressure, emotional regulation and what happens when things don't quite go to plan. And we have QUESTIONS. Why can you feel great at class and then completely unravel the minute there's a judge sitting in front of you? What happens when you start comparing yourself to everyone else? Can you actually think yourself into being confident? How do you stop one mistake from destroying the rest of your performance? And is it okay to admit that yes, we'd quite like to WIN THE BLOODY THING? Gemma also helps us unpack something Renee has been wrestling with this year: the difference between being pessimistic and realistic, particularly when you know you haven't had the preparation you wanted. Rather than trying to plaster over those thoughts with positive vibes only, we talk about how to reframe them into something more constructive and a whole lot less destructive. We get into motivation, self-talk, comparison, nerves and disappointment, and how to focus on the things you can actually control when so much of competitive physie, including what the judges think of you, is completely out of your hands. Because maybe the goal isn't to walk onto the floor without nerves, doubts or negative thoughts. Maybe it's learning how to walk out there with them and perform anyway. With Zone staring us directly in the face, the timing of this conversation couldn't be better. Will Renee and Justine actually put Gemma's advice into practice? We'll report back. 😂 Instinctive Health Evidence-based care focused on the connection between your gut, mind, and your overall wellbeing. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. If you’re looking for official guidance or technical instruction, this isn’t your place. But if you love physie and the culture that comes with it, you’re very much in the right room. 🎧 Follow That Physical Culture Podcast wherever you listen 📱 Follow us on Instagram for updates: @that_physical_culture_podcast Proudly brought to you by Instinctive Health Find out more at www.instinctivehealth.com.au