BFI conducts a session with renowned …

BFI conducts a session with renowned mental health experts to keep boxers motivated during lockdown

Continuing with the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and the Sports Ministry’s efforts to keep players fit and motivated as the world fights the COVID-19 pandemic by staying at home, the Boxing Federation of India (BFI) became the first national federation to conduct a highly enriching session on Mental Fitness & Emotional Well-Being on Sunday, which was attended by 374 boxers and coaches from all over India.

Dr.Samir Parikh, Director, Fortis National Mental Health Program and Divya Jain, Sports Psychologist, Head of Psychological Services, Fortis Healthcare, discussed in this interactive session pressing issues like match day anxiety, training in absence of coach and most importantly how to maintain well-being during such uncertain times. The experts also discussed tips on positivity and mindfulness.

Commending the initiative taken by BFI, Dr.Parikh said: “It is so important that the BFI is giving emphasis to mental conditioning and wellness in these times. It’s a very good initiative that needs to happen at all levels as a continuous effort.”

While social distancing is the need of the hour, it is important for boxers not to deviate from their goals. Routine lifestyle should be followed keeping in mind the sleep and wakeup cycle, training time, eating habits, besides which meditation and relaxation by listening to music should be incorporated as well. Following the coaches’ instructions on BFI’s E-Pathshala is essential to keep oneself fit and healthy and to keep up the positive spirit.

To overcome the matchday anxiety, the pugilists should keep themselves relaxed ahead of a match by listening to soothing music and not think about the outcome of the bout to eliminate all the tension from the mind. Believing in being the best is crucial before entering the ring.

Ms.Divya Jain added: “Success in sport and other fields is not just about your technical skill base but also mental conditioning and as a player, you need to stay focused, confident and positive. Also, just like you devote time for physical training it is equally important that we devote time for mental conditioning as well.”