Chapter 16: Arousal Control
One of the main functions of sport psychology is teaching athletes arousal control. Most sport psychologists spend quite a bit of time with their clients working on ways to control their arousal level. Arousal is simply how much the body is revved up at any particular point in time. Technically, it is the level of your sympathetic nervous system activation. If your sympathetic nervous system is fully activated, you are in the “fight or flight” mode. Your body is prepared to flee or fight for its life.
When you are really wound up, you will feel such bodily sensations as a pounding heart, sweaty palms, muscle tension, vision changes, tightness in the chest, and breathing difficulties. In such a state, it is difficult to stay focused and hit a shot with relaxed fluidity.
Deep Breathing
There are a number of standard ways to control arousal. Breathing is one method that’s always mentioned. You’ve heard many times, from many people, “Just take some deep breaths.” Anytime that you’re anxious or you’re really revved up, you find your heart beating and your hands are sweating, the standard advice is, “Just take some deep breaths.” My doctoral dissertation was on stress and breathing, so I’m somewhat of an expert in this area. My research, my clinical experience, and my consulting experience have shown that taking deep breaths when you are really revved up can be detrimental to relaxation. This is contrary to popular and professional opinion.