The Myth of Simone Biles: A Tale of Shadow and Transformation

Simone Biles Returns Myth to the Olympics: A Tale of Shadow, Strength and Transformation

Simone Biles is back at the Olympics, and her presence is nothing short of mythic. Her journey highlights the increasing importance of effective shadow work as one's performance level rises. With a radiant smile and an air of confidence, Biles is not only performing at her peak but also serving as a beacon of strength and support for her teammates.

Her journey into shadow began at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and has culminated in her current role as an inspiring leader. She has created a narrative worthy of ancient legends, becoming the embodiment of the mythical Olympic heroes of old, showcasing resilience and leadership in the face of adversity.

The Hero's Journey: From Shadows to Light

Operating at optimal mental health becomes increasingly crucial as skill and performance levels rise. In Tokyo, Biles faced a formidable adversary: the "twisties." This condition disrupts a gymnast's spatial awareness, rendering them unable to safely perform routines. As Chögyam Trungpa writes in Smile at Fear, “When body and mind are not in sync, you feel like a character of yourself.” 

Unresolved psychological constructs cast shadows that distort our present experience, which becomes particularly perilous at the Olympic level. Impaired decision-making under pressure is akin to a car traveling at high speed—delays can be catastrophic. Conversely, mental acuity lays the foundation for the flow state that myths and medals are made of. 

Recognizing the severity of her mental and physical disorientation, Biles made the brave decision to withdraw from several events. This choice, driven by her need to prioritize tending to her inner demons, sparked a global conversation about the importance of mental well-being, especially for high-performance athletes.

Supporting Her Teammates: A True Leader

Despite stepping back from competition, Biles did not retreat from her role as a team leader. She encouraged her teammates, assuring them of their capabilities. "You have done all the training. You can do this without me, and it will be just fine," she told them.

Her words of encouragement helped stabilize the team, which went on to secure a silver medal. Her actions demonstrated that true leadership often means stepping aside and supporting others from the sidelines​(Peoplemag)​​(Olympics)​. Even in the face of dense shadows, she exhibited heroic resolve and character. 

She faced harsh criticism which can calcify and darken even the darkest nights of the soul. Baltimore Ravens cornerback Marlon Humphrey took to X to call their act "literally disgusting."

Tending To Her Shadow: True Mental Health

We all have shadows, but by developing a consistent practice of shadow work, we can do more than just tend to the wounds that keep us trapped in cycles of suffering. Shadow work allows us to unleash the hidden resources and insights that lie beyond a survival-based mindset. This practice is essential at every level of our human experience, and its benefits grow even more significant as our performance levels rise. 

Biles has been open about her use of therapy and shadow work practices. She has described her devotion to weekly therapy sessions, calling them "kinda religious." This consistent focus on her mental health has provided her with the tools to process her thoughts and regulate her emotions, reconnecting her mind with her body. Biles also emphasizes the importance of taking time off to relax and recharge, which has been crucial in maintaining her overall well-being.

Biles credits her support system, including her family, friends, and husband, NFL player Jonathan Owens, for helping her stay grounded and motivated. This strong network has been instrumental in her mental health journey and her return to competitive gymnastics. (Local News 8)​​(KVC Health Systems)​​(Peoplemag)​.

A Visible Transformation of Mythic Proportions 

Biles' return to the Olympic stage marked by visible changes the New York Post calls “Olympic brilliance.” (New York Post) Observers have noted her radiant smiles and the joy she brings to her performances. 

This transformation is not just about physical prowess but also about renewed mental strength. Her journey from battling internal demons to becoming a mental health advocate has been a testament to her resilience and growth. “The negative comments, they’re painful after a certain point,” Biles told reporters after her win in vault. “They hurt, but I’m still in therapy working on all that stuff just to make sure my mental health is well. But they’re really quiet now, so that’s strange. After all these years of putting the mental work in, it’s paid off.” She now embodies the very essence of overcoming adversity and using one's struggles to inspire and uplift others​ (Peoplemag)​​(EssentiallySports)​.

An Ancient Myth in Modern Times

She also personified the trials and tribulations of pursuing greatness by adding four more medals — three gold — to her legacy over the last eight days. Her 11 Olympic medals and 30 World Championship medals make her the most decorated gymnast in history, and she is widely considered the greatest gymnast of all time. Simone Biles' story mirrors the archetypal hero's journey, as described by Joseph Campbell. She faced her trials, descended into the abyss of her struggles, and emerged with newfound wisdom and strength. This narrative is particularly fitting given the mythic origins of the Olympic Games themselves, which are steeped in stories of gods and heroes. Biles' journey from the shadows of mental health challenges to her current role as a beacon of hope and strength brings this ancient myth to life in a modern context.

The Ripple Effect of Personal Transformation

Biles' advocacy for mental health has had a ripple effect, influencing not just the world of sports but also the broader public discourse on mental well-being. Her courage to confront her inner struggles publicly has encouraged others to do the same, breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health issues. This ripple effect demonstrates the profound impact that one person's journey can have on the collective, underscoring the idea that true change begins with personal transformation.

Conclusion: A Beacon of Hope

As we watch Simone Biles at the current Olympics, we see more than an athlete performing at her best. We see a hero who has faced her shadows, emerged stronger, and now uses her platform to inspire and support others. Her story is a powerful reminder that true strength lies not in never falling, but in rising each time we do. In the grand tapestry of human stories, Simone Biles stands as a beacon of resilience, hope, and transformation.

What if you strived to be the best version of yourself, for yourself and not some shiny metal? Learn to take the necessary steps to treat yourself as if you are a highly advanced soul on the journey of the story called you. Take time to tend to the demons limiting your performance and disconnecting you from your life. Instead of treating yourself like a walk-on, treat yourself like the world-class you that you are.