In the early 1990>s Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi published Flow (in 2008 republished with a few updates). It is a worthwhile read that highlights the psychology of optimal performance, creativity, and happiness. The book has achieved world renown, but it seems like too often the wisdom taken from it is, >Flow is a really cool place to be. Flow is blissful and wonderful, let>s focus on being there all the...

Mental imagery> perhaps the piece of sport psychology that has made the greatest inroads into mainstream society and pop culture. It>s hard to find an Adam Sandler movie with some entertaining use of visualization> the ultimate likely being his >Happy Place.> In a different, but equally humorous vein, be sure not to miss Hank Hill>s visit to the sport psychology consultant in the King of the Hill...

I just finished reading Herb Benson>s Beyond the Relaxation Response the follow up to his seminal work The Relaxation Response (1974).Although published in 1984, this text provides timeless health and stress management strategies. Beyond the RR takes Benson>s initial RR approach (meditative breathing paired with a cue word or phrase) and adds the >Faith Factor.> While Benson cites many potential ways...

Dr. Naylor talks about what to do when the pressure is on if you are a tennis player. If you've played any form of competitive tennis you've been there. Match point and it is your serve. What do you do? According to Dr. Naylor, you go with your best shot. About Dr. Naylor Dr. Naylor leads the Boston University Athletic Enhancement Center (www.bu.edu/aec). He...

Dr. Naylor talks about how to lose the right points in tennis. Not all points are created equal and the player that can incorporate that perspective in their mental preparation in a match will have a superior advantage. Losing points is not the end of the match, so lose the right points. About Dr. Naylor Dr. Naylor leads the Boston University Athletic Enhancement Center...

Dr. Naylor talks about how to maintain focus on the tennis court. He gives certain tips on how to play in the present and on a point by point basis. Tips range from perspective to subtle body cues players can employ to condition themselves to focus on the present task at hand. About Dr. Naylor Dr. Naylor leads the Boston University Athletic Enhancement Center (www.bu.edu/aec). ...

Dr. Naylor speaks about how to balance aggression on the playing field and how to recognize the symptoms of being too aggressive versus not being competitive. Balanced aggression or a "calm mind with a sharp body" is relevant not only to game day but also to how people train leading up to game day. About Dr. Naylor Dr. Naylor leads the Boston University Athletic...