Mental Wellness for Peak Performance
I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the inspiring example set by Simone Biles at the 2024 Olympics. In the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo, Simone Biles shocked the world when she withdrew from the team competition. She was previously open about anxiety and panic attacks before the Olympic games; Biles hid her inner turmoil that finally hit a tipping point when she experienced “the twisties.” (A term referring to a mental block when a gymnast loses control of their body in the air, no longer able to complete a twisting skill they’ve done countless times before). Simone said, “We have to protect our body and our mind … It just sucks when you’re fighting with your head. Whenever you get in a high-stress situation, you kind of freak out. I have to focus on my mental health and not jeopardize my health and well-being,” said Biles. “I know I brush it off and make it seem like pressure doesn’t affect me, but sometimes it’s hard. The Olympics is no joke.”Her decision to prioritize her mental health by taking a day off from competition surprised and disappointed some, but look at her today!
Simone Biles' courageous decision to take a mental health day sent ripples through the sports world and beyond. I personally as inspired to see a young Black woman take care of her health, even if the whole USA had to be disappointed for her to do so. Her decision challenged traditional notions of strength and resilience (especially of Black women), sparking important conversations about the significance of mental wellness in achieving peak performance. Many of us are familiar with the pressure to keep pushing forward, never to show weakness or vulnerability. However, Simone Biles' experience has shown us that acknowledging our mental health needs can lead to greater accomplishments.
In a society that often praises the "hustle" and glorifies non-stop productivity, it's crucial to recognize that prioritizing our mental health is not a sign of weakness. On the contrary, it demonstrates strength, self-awareness, and a commitment to long-term well-being. Just as athletes like Simone Biles dedicate time to rest and recovery to optimize their performance, we, too can benefit from prioritizing mental wellness to enhance our overall productivity and success.
By acknowledging and addressing our mental health needs, we equip ourselves with the clarity, resilience, and focus to tackle challenges with vigor and determination. When we invest in our mental well-being, we position ourselves to operate at our best, not just for fleeting moments but consistently over the long run. It's about building sustainable foundations for our personal and professional endeavors, ensuring that we can thrive despite the inevitable pressures of life.
As we witness the positive impact of prioritizing mental health in sports and beyond, let's reflect on how we can apply these principles in our lives. Let's challenge the notion that slowing down for self-care is a hindrance and instead recognize it as a strategic step toward achieving our goals with greater resilience, creativity, and effectiveness. Simone’s ability to recognize her need for rest, reset, and recovery ultimately led to her remarkable achievements, including winning the gold. She's now earned an amazing 11 Olympic medals, including seven gold, two silver, and two bronze. This serves as a powerful reminder that prioritizing our mental well-being is not a hindrance to success but rather a catalyst for reaching new heights.
At B. Well, we believe in fostering holistic well-being, and this includes empowering you to prioritize your mental health. Let's continue these important conversations, support each other in our journeys toward mental wellness, and celebrate the power of resilience and self-care.
Thank you for being a part of our community. Let's collectively embrace the vital role of mental wellness in achieving our full potential. Go for the Gold!
Wishing you continued health and happiness,
Adrianne Pinkney
B. Well Community
