If you’ve played poker long enough, you have a story you’re ashamed to tell. A bankroll you blew, a game you shouldn’t have entered,
Even the best players have them.
The difference? They learned, repaired, and rebuilt.
Follow these steps:
Sit quietly.
Close eyes.
Focus on breathing in and out.
When thoughts come up (“I need to win today”), return to the breath.
Repeat.
In other words (actually one), meditate! 🧘
♣️ The Science Behind Why It Works
Meditation isn’t magic. It’s neuroscience.
Studies show it improves:
Emotional control
Patience
Impulse resistance
Pattern recognition
Decision-making under pressure
These are the exact skills poker demands.
It’s no coincidence that some of the greatest poker minds in the world meditate:
Fedor Holz uses breathing work and mental routines before every major event.
Phil Galfond has publicly credited mindfulness for saving his career during downswings.
Elliot Roe’s guided meditations are used by hundreds of high-stakes pros.
The proof is everywhere.
Do you have a pre-session mental routine?
Until the next hand, you’re reading the #1 poker newsletter in your inbox.
OpenShove