Although there have been a few topics that cover the mental side of badminton during the game, I am curious about the mental preparation on a match day. - is there a typical type of food you eat? - is there specific music you listen? - do you think about your/match or opponent? - do you spend some extra time with your rackets? - do you do prayers or meditation? - is there a special activity, habit or token involved in your ritual? What works for you, and what might work for others, share it with us.
The only thing I try is to get focused on my game 30 minutes before I leave home. That's enough for me.
Most of my matches are during the week. This means that after a long day of work I will lie down and rest for about an hour (not sleeping) in absolute silence. If its an important match I think about the opponent and that I'm going to beet him, last year I had a final decisive match for the championship and I had those thoughts all week. I eat dinner as usual, nothing special. I just make sure that I'm not stuffed. Next is a walk to the nearby supermarket to grab a chocolatebar and energydrinks (Red Aquarius). An hour before departure I pack my bag, inspect my rackets in almost a dramatic slow way. Spending some time with my gear gives me some confidence, like you bond somehow with it. Then I fill up my Yonex-can with water and watch some tv, or some easy-listening music. When on my bike to the venue I listen some music that inspires, or "energize" you. What specific music that is varies from time to time. After being dressed I have a word or to with my team-captain and start my warming up. Then I make sure I have a moment of absolute silence somewhere in the venue where nobody is and time like 5 minutes to myself. Setting my mind to the match and charging my self up for it. Shake hands with my opponent and then I'm fully prepared to rock!