NBA Players are elite athletes with excellent command of their bodies. These professionals have a whole staff of people who care for them, from exercise and nutrition to mental health, so what could a Kung Fu/ Taichi and Qigong teacher share with them that is of value?
Why was I asked to share what I do with them, and what do these arts have to do with basketball?
Who am I?
If you read this article, you may already know my story, but if not... My Name is Master Sheldon, Executive Director of Deep Root Center For Spiritual Studies, a temple started by the Monks of Shaolin. I have been involved in athletics most of my life as a gymnast, martial artist, equestrian, and coach. Enough about me!
I have come to understand that athletics is as much mental as physical. Like in pro sports, the amount of physical conditioning required to function at a high-stress level requires equal mental conditioning. This is the same thing required for humans to handle high-stress levels without cracking. Like Pro Sports, Shaolin training intentionally creates stress to build reliance, grit, and focus so that when we are in real danger, we can be calm and act with resolve. This is considered peak performance training.
How I Got the NBA's Attention
You never know who is watching you or how your relationships will manifest opportunities for you in the future; this story is no different. I have been teaching for years in the Bay Area of California, and my coaching style was observed by someone who would later become a prominent figure in team Wellness. They felt that what I shared would be an asset to players who need methods to learn to relax under stress and remain in their power, which is what Kung Fu, Tai Chi, Qigong, and Zen Meditation were made for.
Watching the team play before our session
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