Physical complaints in archery

Even though this topic is very sensitive and the following perspective may seem difficult to digest, I would like to take this opportunity to discuss physical ailments associated with archery. These range from mild, recurring headaches that affect performance and, above all, well-being, to motor impairments, and I don't want to get too bogged down in detail. However, since I've recently noticed parallels to my own, very difficult, health-related experiences with other archers, it's simply a matter close to my heart to share my own experiences in this area.

It's unbelievable how we can often deceive ourselves. As soon as our own body makes itself known and the familiar pain starts again, we convince ourselves that it is an act of God that has descended upon us to rob us of the moment. It never even occurs to us that it could have something to do with our inner world. How could it? Our consciousness would never choose to bear such a burden. But what if it wasn't created by our consciousness, but by something much deeper, like the subconscious? That would mean that there is an issue in life whose extent we shy away from even more than enduring the current physical pain. That can mean not having to make a decision because of the pain, having a justification or explanation for our own shooting performance because we believe otherwise we would have to achieve more. Or even not becoming visible to other shooters, which would automatically entail outstanding performance.

It's always astonishing, but the subconscious, as well as self-sabotaging programs, are as real as pain is, and we carry countless programs within us, which in turn are inevitably connected to our bodies. Day in, day out, we understand what our bodies need at any given moment, just like with basic needs like food or sleep. But when it comes to things like pain, we've forgotten how to look more closely. Often the response is something like, "Of course I have a headache, and I didn't drink enough." Then, unfortunately, I have to add, "Who or what decided that you didn't drink enough right before your round of the obstacle course, and what is the real reason for that?" Of course, this is very unpleasant at first, and often confirms that there must be some issue. The actual truth may not be immediately apparent, but with the necessary willingness and a little patience, in my experience, an unsuspected issue reveals itself that needs to be addressed.

There is not just one way of looking at things, nor just one truth, except the one we can find deep within ourselves to give us the peace and well-being we so desire.

Bettina Platzer