3 Deeper Questions About Mental Resilience in Hockey—Answered

Building mental resilience in hockey often requires more than standard advice—it’s about understanding the unique pressures and unexpected challenges that come with the game. This year’s research has shed light on some unconventional aspects of resilience in sports. Here are three lesser-known but essential questions about mental resilience in hockey, with insights backed by the latest studies.

1. Q: Does a player's diet impact their mental resilience on the ice?

A: Un-Surprisingly, yes. Here's How: Nutrition plays a significant role in mental resilience, as it directly affects energy levels, focus, and stress management. A 2023 study in The Journal of Nutritional Neuroscience found that hockey players who consistently included omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and B-vitamins in their diet showed higher resilience and mental clarity during games. These nutrients support brain health and help regulate mood and cognitive performance under press.

How to Use It:
Incorporate foods rich in omega-3s (like salmon or flaxseeds), antioxidants (such as berries and leafy greens), and B-vitamins (found in eggs, whole grains, and lean meats) into your daily diet. This nutritional foundation supports a resilient mindset and keeps your energy steady throughout high-stress moments.

2. Q: Can maintaining eye contact during gameplay improve resilience?

A: Eye contact may seem trivial, but it can actually be a powerful tool for mental resilience. According to a recent study in The Journal of Applied Sport Psychology, athletes who practiced intentional eye contact with teammates and coaches during high-stress moments showed improved focus and emotional regulation. Eye contact helps reinforce team cohesion, fosters trust, and strengthens resilience by reducing feelings of isolation during intense gameplay​.

How to Use It:
Practice making eye contact with teammates, especially during critical plays or shifts. This small gesture reinforces connection and support, which can boost resilience when facing challenging moments on the ice.

3. Q: How does laughter affect resilience in high-stakes hockey games?

A: Humor is a powerful tool for resilience, especially in sports. A study published this year in Psychology of Sport and Exercise found that athletes who embraced humor and allowed themselves to laugh—even during high-pressure games—showed a significant reduction in stress and an increase in mental resilience. Laughter releases endorphins, which reduce tension and help players bounce back quickly from mistakes.

How to Use It:
Find moments to laugh, even on game day. Whether it’s sharing a light-hearted joke with teammates or taking a second to smile during practice, this small act can reduce stress and improve your mental resilience under pressure.

Why This Matters for You

Building mental resilience in hockey often means going beyond conventional strategies. By optimizing your diet, strengthening connection through eye contact, and using humor as a tool for relaxation, you can stay mentally strong and adaptable in unexpected ways.

If these unusual tips sparked new ideas for your game, share this newsletter with a teammate or coach who’s interested in mental resilience.

Stay Sharp and Skate like the wind, Izzy

Photo Credit: Tricia Mercuri

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