How to Calm Yourself Before a Game

If you are an athlete, you are all too aware of how anxiety-inducing and nerve-wracking a big game can be. However, as easy as it is to hype yourself up with stress and nerves, this tension also can be a waste of time and zap you of energy you need to best function during your game. Tap into yourself to relax and soothe your nerves before your game.

Things You'll Need

  • Journal
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Instructions

    • 1

      Meditate for about 20 minutes or for as long as you can. Concentrate solely on breathing, quietness and relaxing your mind. You could use mantra meditation, which is a technique that involves simply repeating either a phrase or word to eliminate disruptive thoughts.

    • 2

      Talk to yourself and be positive. If you are so nervous that you keep repeating that you are going to fail during your game, say instead: "I am going to try my best during the game, no matter what." Focus on what you can control during your game, instead of speculating and anticipating failure or catastrophe.

    • 3

      Spend some time outside, whether you are simply power walking around a park, swimming, cycling or light jogging. Avoid exerting too much physical energy because you want to save it for the game. Engage in just enough physical activity to calm your mind and serve as a small warm-up.

    • 4

      Visualize good things that make you feel relaxed and happy. Imagine the sunset over a Hawaiian beach. Picture your tiny niece laughing and squealing in the sandbox. If you want to actually see the image before the game, keep a picture of it on hand.

    • 5

      Jot down your feelings, perhaps in a journal. Maintaining a journal can help you analyze your behavior and feelings, as well as help you get the proper perspective. You could also confide in someone, such as friend, to assuage your intense pregame nerves.