05-22-2022, 12:41 AM
Zeneffect Wrote:I found myself staring at the ground singing a little song to get centered before the first stage today. Noticeable difference in sight picture before and after getting rid of the jitters.
ZE:
More like a distractor to get your mind off of the jitters. Centering is a condition where your body and mind are in balance and ready for you to do your thing.
A decent technique to try is by using breathing to dispel anxiety and intrusive thoughts so you can center.
A few techniques depending on how much time you have. Three or four count inhale and as you inhale you visualize collecting the distractive thought like a vacuum cleaner. Three or four count hold. Three or four count exhale visualizing you exhaling the distractive thoughts. You can hold after the exhale for a three or four count as you relax and then do it another couple of times until your mind is clear and your body relaxed. Then you are open to either input the thoughts or visions you know will bring success or with a totally clear and relaxed mind and body, get your position and take your shot or shots.
Controlled breathing seems to settle down anxiety, oxygenates your system, clears out negative thoughts, and allows you to focus on your task.
Sometimes all you need once you start your shooting is a simple in for three, hold for three, out for three while you get your focus. Takes five or six seconds. Sometimes it is one controlled in and one controlled out to bring yourself back to center when speed is needed.
Staring at the ground is also good for the eyes. Looking at something dark like a dull green note pad will relax the eyes and make your centering easier.
LR-55