Mindfulness And The Key To Performance Anxiety
In this evidence-based synthesis paper, I reviewed findings from 15 empirical studies published between 2018 and 2025, all of which aimed to study the correlation of mindfulness levels and performance anxiety in athletes. Researchers have recognized mindfulness as an effective strategy for lowering anxiety and increasing athletic performance.There are many types of mindfulness practices such as, physical activities like yoga as well as mental practices like visualization. Those practices help athletes regulate emotional and physiological responses to stress. Empirical studies have demonstrated that mindfulness fosters greater attentional control, self confidence, and emotional regulation while reducing cognitive disruptions that impair performance. Additionally, mindfulness-based interventions have shown improved recovery, resilience, and overall well being among athletes and coaches alike. Beyond its immediate performance benefits, mindfulness promotes a long-term mental health and self-awareness practice. making it a valuable framework for both competitive and personal development. Athletes can achieve greater composure and effectiveness under pressure. Mindfulness not only mitigates anxiety but also fosters resilience, recovery, and mental clarity qualities essential for both athletic excellence and lifelong well being. The synthesis of recent research supports mindfulness as a multidimensional tool for performance enhancement and stress management within sport psychology.
PSY 499, Senior Capstone
Erin Mueller
Goodrich 209
1 – 1:30 PM