The Effects of Sport on Levels of Mindfulness and...

The area of research that will be of focal concern is conscious awareness in relation to the concept of ‘mindfulness’. In addition to this, analogous research surrounding the topic area will be integrated, with particular attention being paid to an important aspect of sport psychology known as ‘flow’. Mindfulness has its roots in ancient spiritual traditions, namely Buddhism (Keng, Smoski, Robins, 2011), and is commonly defined as â€Å"the awareness that emerges through paying attention on purpose, in the present moment, and non-judgmentally to the unfolding experience moment by moment† (Kabat-Zinn, 2003, p. 145). Definitions like the preceding are common in contemporary literature, however many authors have suggested that mindfulness is a†¦show more content†¦Beginning with the work of Jon Kabat-Zinn and the practice of mindfulness-based-stress-reduction (MBSR), which explored the use of mindfulness meditation in treating patients with chronic pain (Keng, Smoski, Robins, 2011), a growing body of research concerning the cognitive-behavioural tradition emerged. Within this tradition it was assumed that cognition plays a vital role in determining behaviour (Huss Baer, 2007), therefore, by drawing on the two components of mindfulness put forth by Bishop et al (200 4), clinicians established that the development of mindfulness skills, such as focussed breathing (which cultivates the state of mindfulness), can lead to; increased self-awareness and self-acceptance; reduced reactivity to thoughts and emotions; and improved ability to cope with problematic situations (Linehan, 1993). In addition to this, research revealed that those who undergo mindfulness training also experience improved ability to sustain attention in the present moment (Marks, 2008). From a similar stance, recent studies carried out by sport psychologists provided an indication towards a relationship between aspects of mindfulness and sporting performance, in which theories of ‘flow’ and ‘peak performance’ were evidently compatible with the constructs of mindfulness (Kaufman, Glass, Arnkoff, 2009). Csikszentmihalyi (1990; as cited in Bernier, Thienot,Show MoreRelatedDeveloping Management Skills404131 Words   |  1617 Pagesmymanagementlab is an online assessment and preparation solution for courses in Principles of Management, Human Resources, Strategy, and Organizational Behavior that helps you actively study and prepare material for class. Chapter-by-chapter activities, including built-in pretests and posttests, focus on what you need to learn and to review in order to succeed. Visit www.mymanagementlab.com to learn more. DEVELOPING MANAGEMENT SKILLS EIGHTH EDITION David A. Whetten BRIGHAM YOUNG UNIVERSITY