The Secrets of Regeneration – Thérèse Lemarchand

Understanding Energy: the Force that Drives Us Forward

Thérèse began by explaining that energy is a force in action – the one that drives us forward, helps us grow, and perform. In our bodies, three systems self-regulate: the central nervous system, the autonomic nervous system, and the hormonal system. These systems consume and produce electrical, mechanical, and chemical energy.

For leaders, this understanding is fundamental. The more we develop our proprioception – our ability to understand the body’s signals – the more we can optimize our energy. The suggested exercise: during your next seaside walk, focus on your five senses to develop this bodily intelligence.

The Objective-Action Technique to Maximize Performance

Thérèse taught us a powerful method used by high-level athletes: set a precise goal, then forget it during the action. Like Pauline Ado in the middle of a surf competition, one must be fully immersed in sensation, balance, and anticipation.

Specifically, before your next golf session, water skiing, or even a family dinner, set a clear and achievable goal. Then, once in action, focus solely on what you are doing. This approach allows you to consume less energy while being more efficient.

Emotions: Activators or Inhibitors of our Actions

Emotions play a crucial role in how we act. They can either propel us towards excellence or paralyze us. Thérèse shared a positive visualization technique with us: before an important event, mentally visualize your success by associating positive emotions with it.

The brain does not differentiate between a real image and an image created by the mind. By visualizing your perfect golf course or your harmonious family meeting, you create new neural circuits that associate these situations with positive emotions and success.

Active Recovery vs. Passive Recovery

To regenerate effectively, Thérèse distinguishes two types of recovery:

• Passive recovery: sleep, which allows for a decrease in metabolism and memory consolidation.

• Active recovery: activities in which you are in primary motivation, meaning those that bring you pleasure regardless of the outcome.

The trick is to identify your primary motivations – sports, reading, contemplation, solidarity, art – and practice them without a performance objective. The more intense your cognitive activity, the more important it is to alternate between concentration and deconcentration.

In a nutshell…

Here are the four key takeaways from this Masterclass with Thérèse Lemarchand:

• Develop your bodily intelligence: Listen to your body’s signals and develop your proprioception to optimize your energy.

• Master the objective-action technique: Set clear goals and then be fully present in the action without distraction.

• Use positive visualization: Mentally prepare for important events by associating emotions and images of success with them.

• Alternate active and passive recovery: Identify your primary motivations and practice them without pressure for results to regenerate deeply.

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