Rediscover Balance with the Water Bag Visualisation
In a fast-paced world filled with distractions, doubts, and anxieties, finding a sense of balance can feel challenging. This week, Jonny Wilkinson shares a simple and accessible technique he has used in his training to bring ourselves back to a grounded and stable state; something he has coined the Water Bag Visualisation.
What is the Water Bag Visualisation?
Imagine yourself as a bag full of water. Picture holding the top of the bag: the water naturally sinks to the bottom, creating a heavy, stable base.
This imagery reminds us of how grounding and rooted we can feel when our energy settles, just like the water at the base of the bag. When we're caught in thoughts, worries, or tension, it’s as though all our energy rises to our heads, leaving us feeling unstable and disconnected. This practice helps to gently guide that energy back down, rediscovering balance and control.
How It Helps
In moments of stress, whether on the rugby field or in everyday life, our energy can feel chaotic and unsteady. During his rugby career, especially when preparing to kick a ball, doubt and anxiety would often make his movements rushed and inconsistent.
By visualizing the water settling and breathing deeply, he would slow down, feel rooted, and connect to the earth beneath him. From that grounded state, his movements would become inevitable and powerful.
Why It Works
At the core of the Water Bag Visualisation is the idea that our roots hold our power. When we align with the ground beneath us and move at a slower tempo, we reconnect with a natural ease and strength. This approach is not just about sports - it’s a life skill that can help us manage moments of anxiety, panic, or self-doubt.
Jonny has witnessed remarkable results when teaching this technique to others, particularly in sports. The visualisation creates effortless power and precision, enabling people to perform at their best with less strain and more confidence.
Try It Yourself
If you’re feeling unsteady or overwhelmed:
- Pause and imagine yourself as a bag full of water.
- Let the water sink to the base of the bag. Feel the weight and stability it creates.
- Breathe deeply, focusing on the sensation of being grounded.
- Move slowly, with ease and inevitability, connecting to the power within your grounded state.
Grounding ourselves through simple visualisations like this helps us regain clarity, control, and a sense of ease in any situation. Next time life feels unsteady, give the Water Bag Visualisation a try—you may be surprised by the power you unlock.
