"Boosting Athletes' Brain Power with Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques"

New research published in Psychology of Sport and Exercise found that both mindfulness and relaxation techniques can benefit athletes' mental well-being by reducing negative mood states such as anxiety and negative affect. The study observed higher frontal theta power in the brains of athletes during both mindfulness and relaxation inductions, suggesting that attention control may be associated with the decreased anxiety and negative affect that result from these interventions. The findings provide insights into early prevention interventions to reduce the risk of mental health problems in athletes and help them cope with the stress they face.