“The difference between peak performance and poor performance is not intelligence or ability; most often it’s the state that your mind and body is in.” – Tony Robbins
In the wake of a pandemic that has changed the world, and in anticipation of the upcoming new year, where you’re going to be setting huge goals for yourself (right?), I wanted to share with you one of the ways I stay centered in the midst of a busy life.
Is it better to look good than feel good?
When it comes to health and wellbeing, I used to think that exercise was of the utmost importance. I figured if I kept my body in check, I would like the way I look and, therefore, feel good about myself. Voilà! Instant happiness.
Now, as a more experienced person, mom, and business person, I realize that how I look in the mirror does not always match up with how I feel on the inside. And that maybe “happiness” is a bit too vague of a concept, not to mention somewhat elusive. What I really want is to be grounded, energetic, and hopeful, so I’m better able to handle all of the things, both planned and unplanned, that life throws my way.
Changing your mindset, maintaining a positive attitude, and feeling powerful — this is what Tony Robbins calls state management. And, when you’re able to control your state of mind, according to Tony, “You’re the master of your emotions and you understand that life is happening for you, not to you.”
A quick state hack
But knowing something is good for you and actually achieving it are two very different things, right?
Steady exercise, a clean diet, and good sleep are all important elements – and they’re also hard to implement and maintain. So today, let’s talk about something easy you can do. There’s enough in this life that takes work and sustained effort.
I’d like to propose the fastest way to stay centered, handle stress, and improve your overall mental state: the playlist.
Researchers have long studied the effects of music on mood, brain function and physical health. A 2013 study in the Journal of Positive Psychology discovered that people who listened to just 12 minutes of positive, upbeat music achieved a better mood. But you probably didn’t need a study to tell you that.
How about this? The American Music Therapy Association (there’s a whole association!) says that music can have a profound impact on the emotional, psychological, and social aspects of our life. It can reduce our anxiety, improve our memory, and even alleviate physical pain.
Music activates the part of our brain that is responsible for emotions, which means we can evoke different memories and moods simply by changing the radio station. Athletes use music in their pre-game routines to prime themselves. Dancers listen to music before a show to visualize a stellar performance. Spiritual gurus use sound baths and solfeggio frequencies to align their physical, mental, and spiritual states. The reason? Music helps them get into the best possible mental state to achieve the most desired result.
I made a playlist to get you centered, pumped up and in a healthy mental state. Get your vibe check here!
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