WSIC Show Archives - Tracy Alston | Optimize Your Mental Performance: Recent Episodes

Tracy Alston

Tips, tools and solutions to maximize your mental fitness

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https://youtu.be/OzuVuyGhCt0Ready to take your game to the next level? Join Tracy and Destiny Wilson from Mental Edge Fitness Solutions as they reveal the secrets of our 10-session Mental Skills Training Program. Discover how skills like Growth Mindset, Self-Talk, and Self-Confidence can transform your performance. Curious about Mindfulness, Imagery, and Goal Setting? We’ve got you covered. Don’t miss out—subscribe, like, and share to unlock your full potential!

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Unlock Your Mental Edge with Destiny Wilson, Mental Skills Training 101… Have you ever wondered why some athletes thrive under pressure while others seem to falter? Do you feel there’s a missing piece in your game that’s holding you back from reaching your full potential? Here’s a secret: your mind holds the key to unlocking untapped potential! Welcome to another exhilarating episode of the Mental Fitness Matters show!

On this epissody, we’re diving deep into Mental Skills Training 101. We’ll show you how to harness the power of your mind to optimize your performance. Whether you’re an athlete, a coach, or simply curious about mental training, this show is for you. And stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll break down the five Mental Skills used by my company, Mental Edge Fitness Solutions. As athletes, we devote countless hours to physical conditioning and training—undoubtedly crucial aspects of our success. But when we peel back the layers of sports, we often find that the biggest hurdles are mental.

Overthinking, lack of confidence, and struggling to bounce back after mistakes are just a few common challenges.

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Hey Hey, Mental Fitness Matters family! Are you tired of feeling stuck in a cycle of mental fatigue, negative self-talk, and lacking motivation? Do you find yourself constantly postponing tasks until they become overwhelming? If you’re nodding along, then today’s episode of the Mental Fitness Matters show, titled “Test, Don’t Guess Proactive Mental Wellness Solutions,” is tailor-made for you.

Let me ask you a question: What if it’s not you, but your brain that’s holding you back? Have you ever considered that the root cause of your mental exhaustion, sleep troubles, and lack of focus might lie within your brain’s functioning?

Mental health is often brushed aside until problems become too significant to ignore. But what if we flipped the script and became proactive in nurturing our mental well-being? What if we understood that better mental health directly translates to better performance? Intrigued? Let’s dive in.

Brain Mapping: A Proactive Tool

I’m Tracy Alston, your host, and if you’re new here, welcome to the Mental Fitness Matters show. As a licensed mental health therapist and a specialist in brain health, I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power of proactive mental wellness solutions.

Today, we’re delving into the world of brain mapping. Think of it as a personalized roadmap of your brain’s unique abilities—a mental fitness test for your brain. Using advanced imaging technologies, brain mapping allows us to visualize and understand the activity and connectivity within the brain.

But here’s the exciting part—it’s completely safe and non-invasive. By analyzing your brain’s activity, we can gain insights into crucial areas like focus, sleep patterns, stress response, emotional control, and more.

Test, Don’t Guess

Imagine if you broke your hand and the doctor decided to operate without an X-ray. Would you trust that diagnosis? Probably not. Similarly, we shouldn’t be guessing when it comes to our brain’s health. That’s where brain mapping comes in—it’s all about testing, not guessing.

As someone deeply entrenched in the mental health field, I’ve seen countless individuals undergo trial and error with medications and treatments. But with brain mapping, we can pinpoint issues accurately, leading to more effective interventions from the get-go.

Early Detection Leads to Early Intervention

Why is this relevant? Because early detection is key to preventing mental health challenges from spiraling out of control. Brain mapping allows us to identify patterns associated with burnout, stress, anxiety, and more. It’s like giving your brain an annual check-up.

Your brain is the engine of your body, and if it’s not firing on all cylinders, it affects every aspect of your life. That’s why recognizing these patterns early on can pave the way for targeted interventions, ensuring you’re mentally fit to tackle life’s challenges.

Mental Fitness Matters

At the end of the day, mental fitness is about equipping yourself with the right tools to navigate life’s hurdles. Brain mapping is just the beginning of your mental fitness journey—a tool to understand, maintain, and enhance your mental health.

So, how do you get started? Brain mapping typically takes 60-90 minutes, and from there, we can customize a treatment plan tailored to your brain’s needs. And yes, brain mapping is for everyone—from ages 5 and up.

Accessible Solutions

The good news? Brain mapping is more accessible than ever. Whether you visit our offices or opt for portable headsets, there are solutions available to suit your needs. If you’re a practitioner looking to incorporate brain mapping into your practice, reach out to us—we’re here to help.

Subscribe and Share

If you found today’s episode insightful, don’t forget to subscribe and share it with a loved one. And if you’re ready to take control of your mental wellness journey, don’t hesitate to reach out. Remember, the better you feel, the better you perform.

So, why wait when you can feel better now? Let’s embark on this journey to mental fitness together. Until next time, take care of your brain—it’s the powerhouse behind everything you do.

Shine Bright Like The Stars You Are, Tracy Alston

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The Mind of a gaming champion, a Conversation with Kendall Hamilton, we dive into the unseen world of mental fitness in professional gaming. If you’re a gamer or simply curious about the industry, you’re in for a treat!

Our guest is none other than Kendall Hamilton, a professional video gamer who has soared to fame as one of the top 10 players in the turbocharged world of 3v3 Rocket League. Buckle up as we journey through the mind of this elite gamer!

1. The Genesis of Gaming: Kendall shares his gaming origin story, shedding light on how his journey into the gaming realm began. Did he start with a specific game, or was it a gradual evolution over time?

2. From Passion to Profession: We explore the turning point in Kendall’s gaming journey when it transformed from a casual pastime to a serious profession. When did he know that gaming could be more than just a hobby?

3. Conquering Challenges and Convincing Parents: Before becoming a pro, Kendall faced the challenge of convincing his mom that gaming was a viable career path. Hear about the hurdles he overcame on the road to professional gaming.

4. A Day in the Life of a Pro Gamer: Kendall walks us through a typical day in his life, offering insights into the unique set of skills and routines required to thrive as a professional gamer.

5. Mental Warm-Ups and Rituals of a gaming champion : Discover the mental warm-ups and pre-game rituals Kendall employs to stay sharp and focused in the highly competitive gaming arena.

6. Unwinding after Intense Sessions: We delve into the crucial topic of mental well-being, exploring how Kendall unwinds and takes care of his mind after challenging gaming sessions or tournaments.

7. Navigating the Professional Landscape: Gaming is now a career, and Kendall shares insights into how he secures sponsorships and gets paid for his skill in the gaming world.

8. Building Positive Connections: Explore the importance of fostering positive relationships in the gaming community and how these connections contribute to Kendall’s mental health.

9. Goals and Excitement: Kendall opens up about his future goals and what he’s most excited about in the ever-evolving world of gaming.

10. Physical vs. Mental: Is gaming more physical or mental? Kendall provides insights into the training required for competitive gaming and discusses the balance between physical and mental aspects.

Thanks for joining us on this exciting episode of Mental Fitness Matters Show! Stay tuned for more conversations that unravel the minds behind remarkable achievements. Shine bright, Mental Fitness Matters community!

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Welcome to Mental Fitness Matters, where today’s journey into unlocking potential is led by none other than the acclaimed Game Changer, Dr. Gigi Hamilton. Her pioneering approach to mental fitness is not just a philosophy; it’s a transformative practice that empowers individuals to transcend their limits. Join us as we delve into an inspiring dialogue with Dr. Gigi Hamilton, exploring the pivotal role of mental fitness in realizing one’s full potential.

Mental Fitness: The Foundation of Unlocking PotentialDiving deep into the essence of mental fitness, Dr. Gigi Hamilton shares her insights on how mental well-being serves as the cornerstone of unlocking human potential. Her extensive experience as an organizational psychologist and licensed mental health counselor has equipped her with the tools to foster resilience, adaptability, and growth.

From Military Discipline to Mental Agility: Dr. Gigi Hamilton’s JourneyDr. Gigi Hamilton’s remarkable transition from a disciplined military background to a luminary in mental health illustrates the profound impact of mental fitness on personal development. This section sheds light on how her experiences have shaped her unique approach to enhancing mental agility and strength.

Championing Diversity: Dr. Gigi Hamilton’s Impact on Mental FitnessAs The Game Changer, Dr. Gigi Hamilton emphasizes the critical importance of inclusivity and cultural competence in mental health practices. Here, we explore her efforts to amplify the voices of black mental health professionals and her commitment to making mental fitness accessible to diverse communities.

Fostering Conversations: Creating Spaces for Mental FitnessUnderstanding the power of dialogue in mental health, Dr. Gigi Hamilton advocates for the creation of safe, supportive environments where individuals can openly discuss their journeys toward mental fitness. This commitment to nurturing safe spaces is instrumental in facilitating personal and communal growth.

The Game Changer Philosophy: Dr. Gigi Hamilton on Mental FitnessIn this section, Dr. Gigi Hamilton unpacks the philosophy behind her title, “The Game Changer,” and how it reflects her mission to revolutionize mental health advocacy. Her innovative strategies aim to empower individuals to embrace mental fitness as a key to unlocking their true potential.

A Vision for the Future: Dr. Gigi Hamilton’s Mental Fitness GoalsLooking forward, Dr. Gigi Hamilton shares her visionary goals for the mental fitness movement, focusing on the broader implications of mental health accessibility and education. Her aspirations highlight the transformative potential of mental fitness in shaping a more resilient, empowered society.

Practical Wisdom: Enhancing Mental Fitness with Dr. Gigi HamiltonConcluding our exploration, Dr. Gigi Hamilton offers actionable advice for individuals seeking to enhance their mental fitness. These strategies are designed to support personal well-being, resilience, and the journey towards unlocking one’s potential.

Empowering Transformation with Dr. Gigi Hamilton 🚀Embarking on this conversation with Dr. Gigi Hamilton, The Game Changer, illuminates the path to unlocking potential through mental fitness. As we embrace her insights and guidance, let’s commit to the practices that fortify our mental resilience and propel us towards our fullest potential. Stay connected with Mental Fitness Matters for more empowering discussions and strategies. 💙 #MentalFitness #UnlockingPotential #GameChanger

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Welcome back to the Mental Fitness Matters channel! Are you struggling to get quality sleep night after night? Well, you’re in for a treat because today we’re diving into the transformative world of “Sleep Hygiene”!

What exactly is sleep hygiene? Think of it as the personal care routine for your sleep. But there’s more to it, and we’ll be exploring these essential tips in our full video. You won’t believe how simple changes can revolutionize your sleep!

Did you know that sleep affects your mental, physical, and emotional health in more ways than one? We’ve got some eye-opening insights, including surprising findings from an Ohio State University study. Stay tuned for the full discussion in our video!

To dive deeper into the world of sleep hygiene and unlock the secrets to a better night’s sleep, make sure to watch our Mental Fitness Matters video.

Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more life-changing content! See you there!

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As we step into the New Year, the mix of emotions is real. Excitement for the possibilities, a tinge of sadness for personal losses, and a touch of anxiety for the unknowns. In this episode, I am providing you with tips and strategies to transform that anxiety into excitement and set the stage for a Stress-Free Start to the year, using the acronym C.A.R.E.

Changing the Narrative- Changing your narrative involves flipping the script from worse case scenarios to empowering thoughts. By reframing our perspective, we foster a mindset that encourages proactive problem solving and a positive approach to challenges.

Activate the Power of Pause- learn how to intentionally take a moment to pause and disrupt anxious thought patterns.

Remember Your Stress-Free Toolkit- A personal arsenal against stress and anxiety. In this episode learn how to create a stress-free toolkit for any season of life.

Embrace the Journey- New beginnings bring pressure, but the highs and lows are essential for growth. Practice C.A.R.E. daily to gain better control over the waves of anxiety and stress.

Mental Fitness Matters family, you have the power to set the tone for any season of your life. Changing your narrative, activating the power of pause, remembering your Stress-Free Toolkit and embracing the journey- these ingredients ensure a New Year full of excitement and joy.

Subscribe and share this episode for a stress-free start! Shine Bright like the Stars you are!

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We all know and are familiar with what we consider our busy seasons throughout the year! Whether it’s the holiday season, a season of loss or transition, or a season in your life that is just beginning or ending, managing your stress levels, emotions, and overall health throughout busy seasons can be difficult.

I want to give you 5 tips for managing stress during a busy season in your life.

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Learn Coaching with Intention with Frankie Littlejohn. Coaching is no easy job. You are tasked with balancing the performance of a team while striving to develop well-rounded, confident, and kind individuals.

Frankie LittleJohn

Head Women & Men’s Track & Field Coach at Pine Lake Prep Defensive end/Center for the National Arena Football Leagues Carolina Predators Defensive End/Center for the TEAM USA National All-star team 2019 inducted into the European Football Hall of fame for TEAM USA International for playing 12 years in Italy, Germany, France BS in Exercise Science from North Greenville University with Minor in Psychology. BS in Neuromuscular Science from Winston Salem State University

Topic :

  1. As a former collegiate athlete, a current athlete, and a coach, talk about the importance of guidance not just in competing, but in preparation.
  2. What are you seeing as some of the biggest changes as it relates to talking about the importance of not just training your body, but training your mind?
  3. What are the biggest mental fitness hurdles you see in our youth today and how do we coach for the 21st century? What if anything needs to shift?
  4. The world is getting faster, and the idea vs. reality of being that NEXT star and instant success is where a lot of our youth focus today, how do you see this impacting the kids you are training and coaching
  5. What are your thoughts on NIL and does that change how you prepare your youth?
  6. What do you see as some of the biggest challenges our youth are facing today and how is that impacting their performance?
  7. How do you go about balancing the performance of a team, while striving to develop well-rounded individuals?
  8. What do you see (if anything) as some of the barriers or challenges when it comes to discussing mental fitness with parents?
  9. People are talking more about mental health and the mental side of the game than ever before, how are you training/equipping your students to build confidence and a better mindset
  10. What does mental fitness mean to you?
  11. What’s your “why”?
  12. Who was your role model and what qualities and/or characteristics have you tried to carry over
  13. Majority of kids think they are going pro, what advice and/or tips do you have for parents and our youth as we both know the odds of that

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WATCH VIDEOQue Tucker is the commissioner of the North Carolina High School Athletic Association. Que oversees the entire operation of the Association, which includes a staff of 17, a sports program consisting of 13 different sports, culminating in the 90 state team championships for men and women. As a native of Rockingham County, Que played college basketball at Mars Hill College and earned a master’s degree in physical education from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. She also coached alongside Kay Yow at NC State….

  1. Tell us a little about your journey
  2. 50th anniversary of Title 9 and as someone who has navigated sports as an athlete a coach and an administrator you’ve seen the effects and changes to the face of title 9 sports have brought forth. How do you handle the stress of managing athletics at a state level?
  3. Looking over the journey of Title 9, over the last 50 years, what would you say looks different about your student-athlete experience from then until now….
  4. Looking back at the progress that’s been made over the last 50 years and some of the hurdles you had to cross, what’s one hurdle that you’ve dealt with that doesn’t exist for girls today?

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WATCH VIDEO BELOW Family Mental Health History Matters? How many of you know your family history and not just medical family history, but mental health family history? And most importantly do you think it matters!! I want to talk about this topic because I truly think it’s important and it can change how you operate in your life on a ... Read More

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How many times have you attempted to start something, in particular with your health and wellness? Whether it’s pursuing a new goal for your life, around a workout schedule, or weight management, how many times have you thought about starting and have said you’ll just wait until tomorrow, or next month or next year and then the time comes around ... Read More

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WATCH VIDEO BELOW Representation Matters For Mental Health with Nadine Ford. Whether it’s a fictional character, family member, or someone in the spotlight we’ve never met- those of us who have been marginalized, excluded, or traumatized by society know just how much it means to simply see yourself in someone else. Nadine Ford is a drowning prevention ambassador and swim ... Read More

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WATCH VIDEO BELOW Have you ever wonder been on vacation, attended a meeting, concert or watched a movie and walked away feeling so inspired and excited that your mind is flooded with a million ideas and creative thoughts about what you’re going to do and what you want to accomplish and then, you get back out of that space and ... Read More

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WATCH VIDEO Back to school, it is that time of the year when kids are heading back to school. Some may even be in school already, but this is a BIG transitional period for a lot of people so today I wanted to do a show for my parents out there so that we can take a closer look at ... Read More

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WATCH VIDEO BELOW Learn how to heal through food with Christiane Matey, an Integrative and functional Dietician and the Founder of MINT Nutrition, with a depth of experience in health, wellness, and fitness. She is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America and a graduate of the Master of Science in Health Sciences (MSHS) Program in Integrative Medicine from ... Read More

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Kwame Dixon is a 1987 graduate of the University of Pittsburgh, where he played football and earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration.  Coach Kwame Dixon has been an educator and coach for the past 31 years. In addition to being the owner of the speed school for the past 5 years, he currently serves as the offensive coordinator ad quarterback ... Read More

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Massage therapy and Mental Health Did you know that massage therapy  ✅ Lowers stress 🤯 ✅ Decreases anxiety 😰 ✅ Reduces irritability 😖 ✅ Increases happiness by increasing brain serotonin and dopamine 😀🧠 It’s the perfect MIND•BODY•CONNECTION we can all benefit from to improve our overall health and performance.  Join me and my co-host as we sit down with Amy Applegate a NC Licensed Massage and Bodywork Therapist and ... Read More

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PLAY VIDEO BELOW Have you ever heard the phrases, “gut feelings, trusting your heart, or trust your gut”? Well, guess what, they are so much more than phrases.  There is more and more science showing us that how we feel is not all in our heads, but also in our body, our gut, our heart, and our brain and it’s ... Read More

The post Performance and Brain Nutrition with Dr. Shawn Talbott “Amare Global®” (The Gut-Brain Connection) [PART 2] | MFM 132 RADIO SHOW WSIC 105.9FM #108 appeared first on Tracy Alston | Optimize Your Mental Performance.

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PLAY VIDEO BELOW Have you ever heard the phrases, “gut feelings, trusting your heart, or trust your gut”? Well, guess what, they are so much more than phrases.  There is more and more science showing us that how we feel is not all in our heads, but also in our body, our gut, our heart, and our brain and it’s ... Read More

The post Performance and Brain Nutrition with Dr. Shawn Talbott “Amare Global®” (The Gut-Brain Connection) [PART 1] | MFM 131 RADIO SHOW WSIC 105.9FM #107 appeared first on Tracy Alston | Optimize Your Mental Performance.

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Have yall ever said “yes” to do something and immediately thought, why in the world did I agree to do that? You’re already overbooked, you really don’t want to go, but because you don’t want to let anyone down or hurt their feelings you say yes anyway or maybe you just think if you don’t do the task, someone else ... Read More

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Research from a men’s health charity MOVEMBER looked at 2 words that have a big psychological impact on why men aren’t speaking up. MAN UP Over 47% of men ages 18-34 feel pressure to be manly or masculine. And to maintain this appearance of masculineness, the research finds that 38% of men do not talk to others about their feelings ... Read More

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