Matt Meyer takes center stage in a discussion that explores the intersection of physical therapy and mental well-being, emphasizing the often-ignored aspects of emotional health in athletic performance. With 15 years of experience working with elite athletes from the Buffalo Bills and Buffalo Bandits, Matt delves into the complexities of imposter syndrome—a common struggle among high performers who often feel they do not deserve their success. This episode sheds light on how the pressures of competition can lead to anxiety and self-doubt, ultimately affecting performance and recovery. Through personal anecdotes and professional insights, Matt illustrates the necessity of addressing mental health alongside physical rehabilitation, advocating for a more holistic approach to therapy that recognizes the mind-body connection.
Matt is a seasoned sports therapist, shares invaluable insights into the intersection of physical health and mental well-being in high-performance athletes. He emphasizes that many athletes struggle with imposter syndrome and the emotional challenges that accompany their careers, often neglecting the importance of mental health support. Through his holistic approach, which includes techniques like craniosacral therapy and story work, he helps clients navigate their healing journeys, addressing both physical injuries and underlying psychological issues. Matt discusses the significance of creating a supportive environment, including the necessity of community and connection in overcoming feelings of isolation after leaving competitive sports. With a passion for lifelong learning and personal growth, he encourages listeners to prioritize self-care, mindfulness, and open dialogue about their experiences.
Matt Meyer works with the NFL's Buffalo Bills as well as professional lacrosse team the Buffalo Bandits. He is the owner of Revive Performance and Health in Buffalo, where he runs his own clinic as a sports therapist which is somewhere between sports medicine, massage therapist, movement expert, mindset coach, and more.
Matt applies MANY different modalities from his plethora of certifications, giving him too many letters after his name to fit on a business card. He also has a bachelor's degree in health sciences and has studied at the Chek Institute from the renowned holistic health expert Paul Chek. His current practice brings in referrals not only from the NFL, MLB, and NHL but also the top medical facilities in the area.
He is also passionate about philosophy, spirituality, plant medicine, movement, healing, and much more which he talks about on his podcast the Curious Buffalo. Check him out!
In this episode we talked about the power of words to heal or hurt, how to integrate many different modalities, facing imposter syndrome as he created his own career, working with pros, the current medical model vs. his practice, and more!
The dialogue seamlessly transitions to the topic of community support and the importance of connection for athletes and veterans alike. Drawing parallels between their experiences, Matt discusses how the transition from a structured environment to civilian life can be jarring, leading to feelings of isolation. He highlights the lack of rites of passage in modern society, particularly for young men, and the potential consequences of this absence. Through his work and personal journey, Matt champions practices such as flotation therapy and mindfulness as essential tools for fostering self-awareness and emotional healing. The conversation also touches on the significance of language and narrative in shaping one’s mindset, introducing the enlifted method as a means to empower individuals to rewrite their stories and reclaim their identities.
Throughout the episode, listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own health journeys and consider the impact of self-talk and community on their well-being. Matt emphasizes that improvement is a gradual process that begins with small, intentional changes, and he offers practical advice on incorporating holistic practices into everyday life. With a focus on the importance of balance, self-care, and vulnerability, this episode serves as an inspiring reminder that everyone, regardless of their profession, can benefit from prioritizing their mental and emotional health. Ultimately, Matt’s insights encourage a shift towards a more compassionate and integrated approach to personal wellness, highlighting the need for ongoing support and understanding in the journey to healing.
Takeaways:
Imposter syndrome is a common experience among high performers and athletes alike.
Finding balance in life is crucial for maintaining mental health and well-being.
Integrating mindset work into physical therapy can enhance recovery and performance outcomes.
Emotional and spiritual well-being often gets overlooked in high-performance sports culture.
Establishing a supportive community is essential for athletes transitioning out of their sports.
Practicing self-care and mindfulness can help mitigate feelings of burnout and overwhelm.
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