Supporting Your Gymnast Through a Mental Block: A Guide for Parents - July 2023
I often receive requests for help in overcoming mental blocks that our gymnasts face. While parents can be a great support system, it’s important to be mindful of unintentionally adding extra stress and pressure. In this newsletter, we’ll discuss some facts about mental blocks and provide tips on how to best support your gymnast during this challenging time.
Understanding Mental Blocks:
First and foremost, it’s crucial to recognize that your gymnast is not choosing to have a mental block. Mental blocks are not a result of a lack of effort, motivation, or laziness. Instead, they occur when your gymnast’s brain perceives a threat, leading the body to activate the sympathetic nervous system, triggering fight, flight, or freeze responses. The brain cannot distinguish between real or imagined danger, so your gymnast may experience a freeze response when they fear failure, injury, disappointment, and so on.
Tips for Supporting Your Gymnast:
Validate their fear: It is essential to acknowledge and validate your gymnast’s fears. Let them know that their feelings are real and understandable. Avoid dismissing or downplaying their concerns.
Avoid bribes: Remember that mental blocks are not about a lack of motivation. Refrain from bribing your gymnast to perform the skill, as this can add more stress and pressure. Instead, focus on providing unconditional love and acceptance, regardless of the outcome.
Be a supportive listener: It’s natural for your gymnast to feel upset and frustrated. Sometimes, the best support you can offer is empathy and a listening ear; encourage them to express their thoughts and emotions without judgment. Avoid bringing up the mental block unless they choose to discuss it.
Notice and acknowledge feelings: As a parent, you invest significant time and resources into your gymnast’s training. It is normal to feel a range of emotions like frustration or confusion. However, be cautious not to let these emotions interfere with your interactions with your gymnast. Show understanding and empathy while maintaining a positive environment.
Supporting your gymnast through a mental block can be challenging, but with the right approach, you can make a positive difference. Remember to validate their fears, provide unconditional love and acceptance, and be a supportive listener. By offering empathy and understanding, you’ll create a nurturing environment that aids their journey toward overcoming the mental block. If you or your gymnast would like more support, check out my coaching services on my website.
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