Bengaluru: “Success Mantra in Sports”, a book written by eminent sports psychologist M N Viswanath, was released by Arjuna Awardee Ashwini Nachappa at the Hockey Stadium here on Wednesday.
“There is an urgent need for such a book not just for athletes, coaches and trainers but for all parents and students. Handling fear, controlling emotions, realising inner potential; be it in music, arts, studies or sports, should be learnt. Every child needs such books to help train their minds,” felt star athlete Ashwini Nachappa who had beat P T Usha in her time, only after she underwent Sports Psychology training under Bupen Das which had removed her mental block.
“Some books entertain and some books teach. But we rarely come across books which serve both the purposes. With apt and meaningful real-life experiences, it’s a practical book with simple concepts, mind drills and ideas. The book teaches without sermonising and just flows as it makes you think,” opined renowned counselor and founder of Banjara Academy Dr. Ali Kwaja.
The 376-page book addresses key mental aspects of sports in an easy and simple manner with a lot of anecdotes. The book also narrates personal experiences from an impressive range of top national and international sportspersons.
“Many years back, I found it difficult to find a professional psychological support for my table-tennis playing son,” revealed author M N Viswanath, which prompted him to write the book. And after four years of research and hard work, the book fills the gap of a long-felt need.
Celebrated Australian sports psychologist Dr. Michelle Pain, in the foreword, says that she is proud to have “Success Mantra in Sports” in her collection. “Vishwanath is a keen teacher who wants to bring sports psychology concepts to the general public in India at a minimum cost and he has achieved it with this book. The book points to correct thoughts and actions that anyone can put to good use and achieve improved performances as well as enjoyment of sports,” she said while recommending the book to budding athletes.
Veteran coach and Dronacharya Awardee Lingappa (93) was felicitated on the occasion. Celebrated athlete Arjun Devaiah also spoke.
