How to Mentally Prepare Soldiers for the Stress of Warfare
Once you know that you are heading into a battle zone, gather as much info as you can about the terrain, people, climatic conditions as well as the political scenario and the causes of conflict., Start taking your physical fitness seriously, if you...
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Once you know that you are heading into a battle zone
It would also help if you talk to someone who has been there.
There is no substitute for firsthand knowledge. -
Step 2: gather as much info as you can about the terrain
All the knowledge in the world is not going to save you if your body fails to deliver.
Calculate the time left for you to start your tour and plan an exercise regimen accordingly. e.g If you have six months in hand, set a benchmark of a 5-mile run followed by freehand exercises.
There is no hard and fast rule but if you can manage a set of 100 pushups at the end of your run, you're generally good to go. , Revisit the firing range if you are out of touch.
Touch up on your map reading.
Believe me, practice does make perfect.
You may have been a hotshot during basic training but that won't cut it if you are out of touch. , When the bullets start flying, a cool head might just save your life.
Just 3-10 mins to begin with are enough.
Also try some deep breathing exercises and yoga.
The added benefit of yogic postures is that they will make you flexible as well as strong. , That way, you will be less stressed about what will happen to your family if you don't come back.
It's a fact that most soldiers have only one worry on their minds when they go into battle
- their families. , Gather your favorite snaps, a well-worn tee or some such token.
They feel good in moments of loneliness. , Excessive consumption of alcohol can lead to fatal errors in judgement.
Learn to restrict yourself to a couple of beers. , There will always be some downtime.
Use it constructively.
Carry along some favorite books or enroll for an online course that you can take from your base.
Basically, stay busy.
It is very tempting to get piss drunk with your mates, but if you have been meditating religiously you won't really feel the need.
Besides, you'll feel better when you head back into action.
It's no fun patrolling with a hangover. , You are a trained soldier.
Remember the basics, stick to them and you will be just fine.
Have faith in yourself, your mates and your officers.
You are never alone.
No matter what happens, you'll all face it together. -
Step 3: people
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Step 4: climatic conditions as well as the political scenario and the causes of conflict.
-
Step 5: Start taking your physical fitness seriously
-
Step 6: if you haven't up till now.
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Step 7: Brush up on your basic soldiering skills.
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Step 8: Start meditating.
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Step 9: Invest in Life Insurance.
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Step 10: Prepare yourself mentally for the period of separation from your loved ones.
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Step 11: Start gradually reducing your alcohol intake.
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Step 12: You will never be constantly in battle.
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Step 13: Last but not the least
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Step 14: BELIEVE IN YOURSELF!
Detailed Guide
It would also help if you talk to someone who has been there.
There is no substitute for firsthand knowledge.
All the knowledge in the world is not going to save you if your body fails to deliver.
Calculate the time left for you to start your tour and plan an exercise regimen accordingly. e.g If you have six months in hand, set a benchmark of a 5-mile run followed by freehand exercises.
There is no hard and fast rule but if you can manage a set of 100 pushups at the end of your run, you're generally good to go. , Revisit the firing range if you are out of touch.
Touch up on your map reading.
Believe me, practice does make perfect.
You may have been a hotshot during basic training but that won't cut it if you are out of touch. , When the bullets start flying, a cool head might just save your life.
Just 3-10 mins to begin with are enough.
Also try some deep breathing exercises and yoga.
The added benefit of yogic postures is that they will make you flexible as well as strong. , That way, you will be less stressed about what will happen to your family if you don't come back.
It's a fact that most soldiers have only one worry on their minds when they go into battle
- their families. , Gather your favorite snaps, a well-worn tee or some such token.
They feel good in moments of loneliness. , Excessive consumption of alcohol can lead to fatal errors in judgement.
Learn to restrict yourself to a couple of beers. , There will always be some downtime.
Use it constructively.
Carry along some favorite books or enroll for an online course that you can take from your base.
Basically, stay busy.
It is very tempting to get piss drunk with your mates, but if you have been meditating religiously you won't really feel the need.
Besides, you'll feel better when you head back into action.
It's no fun patrolling with a hangover. , You are a trained soldier.
Remember the basics, stick to them and you will be just fine.
Have faith in yourself, your mates and your officers.
You are never alone.
No matter what happens, you'll all face it together.
About the Author
Andrew Edwards
Specializes in breaking down complex DIY projects topics into simple steps.
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