Network Magazine (NZ) Summer 2019 | Page 29

will reinforce your new mental habits, implementing these thought processes on a recurring basis by performing multiple reps and sets. When you find yourself engaged in a negative thought process, replace it promptly with the positive one you have identified. As you would any exercise program, begin this transformation process gradually. Pinpoint one negative thought per day and replace it with a positive thought. As your self-confidence grows, increase the number of repetitions you perform each day of replacing destructive thoughts and emotions with positive ones. As you become more proficient, you will find that you recognise your negative mental habits more quickly and replace them swiftly before they become overwhelming and debilitating to your state of mind (and body). 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Reaping the rewards As you work to improve the condition of your mind, your body will thank you. Positive and constructive thoughts about what you are doing (for example, to prevent knee pain while running) will manifest in the body via signals from the brain (in this instance as reduced, and eventually, no knee pain). Similarly, negative thoughts about eating (as discussed above) will inflame the gut and cause gastric distress. Replacing these thoughts with positive sentiments and emotions will have a direct effect on the way the gut operates, improving digestion, and ultimately the way the entire body feels and functions. Developing a fit and robust mind requires hard work and dedication. However, by routinely identifying your problematic thought patterns and emotions and replacing them consistently with more constructive/positive mental habits, you will enjoy the incredible benefits that come with a healthy body and mind. REFERENCES 1. 2. 8. Research and investigations in Sports Medicine. October 25, 2017. Ozanich, S. The Great Pain Deception. Warren, OH: Silver Cord Records: 2011. Pert, C. Molecules of Emotion: Why You Feel the Way You Feel. New York, NY: Scribner, 1997. Rankin, L. Mind Over Medicine. Carlsbad, CA: Hayhouse, 2013. Sarno, J. Healing Back Pain: The Mind-Body Connection. New York, NY: Grand Central Publishing, 2001. Price, J. & Bratcher, M. 2018. The BioMechanics Method Corrective Exercise Certification Program (2nd Edition). San Diego, CA: The BioMechanics Press. Price, J. The BioMechanics Method for Corrective Exercise. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics, 2018. Justin Price, MA Justin is the creator of Network’s Corrective Exercise Specialist Certification course, The BioMechanics Method®. His techniques are used in over 65 countries by specialists trained in his unique pain- relieving methods. Ackerman, S. Discovering the Brain. Washington D.C. National Academy Press,1992. Khan, M. et. al, Effects of Anxiety on Athletic Performance. NETWORK SUMMER 2019 | 29