The poker pre-session routine

Five minutes, run the same way every time, so readiness becomes a decision rather than a mood.

1

Body and fatigue scan

Thirty seconds. Where is tension? How rested are you honestly?

2

Paced breathing

Ninety seconds at four in, six out. Settles arousal before the first hand.

3

Intention card

One sentence naming how you want to play, not what you want to win.

4

If-then commitment

One rehearsed response to your most likely trigger.

5

Stopping commitment

Decide in advance what ends the session. Discipline is easier before pressure.