M4 SOS Therapies in Athletes’ Mental Wellness: Case Study of an Olympian Gymnast

This study introduces a M4 model of mental wellness—grounded in indigenous therapies and practices offering quick relief in prevalent wellness issues such as sleeplessness, pre- competition anxiety, and emotional overwhelm in elite athletes. The methods and therapies employed in this case study have empirical validation in other populations. The M4 model was developed to support an Olympian artistic gymnast to improve sleeplessness and anxiety prior to an international competition. It was informed by the author’s autoethnographical account. These interventions were administered in two sessions of 45 minutes and 30 minutes on the same day at a gap of four hours, due to limited time availability. An integrated approach was adopted to induce sleep and relaxation. Its efficacy was evaluated based on the coach’s and athlete’s reported improvements in sleep quality, sleep duration, relaxation, and quality performance during practice session the following day. Further validation and cross cultural applications are suggested.