The Mindfulness Program for Athletes

Against the backdrop of elite athletes' experiences with mindfulness training, a mindfulness program specifically for the context of sports was developed. The program is based on five principles: awareness of values, conscious perception of one's own body and thoughts, awareness of one's own impact, acceptance of one's own feelings and thoughts, and focus on what is happening right now. This mindfulness training is intended to promote the ability to regulate one's own emotions, concentration, and the achievement of the flow state. Several scientific studies have already been conducted that have shown the effectiveness of mindfulness training in various areas. The mindfulness program consists of a total of eight 90-minute units, each unit containing special practical exercises such as breathing and meditation exercises. In addition to these exercises, processes are initiated within the program to learn more about oneself. This not only means reflecting on values, thought patterns, and routines, but also identifying stressors and eliminating them. Each unit consists of four basic elements: 1. a minute of silence, 2. discussion of a (sports) psychological topic, 3. practical exercises, and 4. reflection. To consolidate the effect of the practiced mindfulness exercises, exercises for daily practice at home are also prescribed.