Myles Lewis-Skelly Credits Buddhist Philosophy for Composure
Arsenal midfielder discusses the 'monkey mind' concept and the importance of mindfulness in managing pre-game nerves as he aims for an England recall.
Arsenal's Myles Lewis-Skelly, set to celebrate his 20th birthday, has revealed the Buddhist concept that underpins his renowned on-field composure. Lewis-Skelly, a midfielder by preference, discussed the 'monkey mind'—a term describing a restless, jumping consciousness—as a tool for grounding himself when experiencing pressure.
"It’s practically about the restless mind, how you can jump from concern to concern," Lewis-Skelly explained in an interview with the Men In Blazers media network. "So whenever I feel a type of weight, for me it’s important to bring my nervous system down and to bring stillness back to my mind, to be calm. Whether it is through breathing techniques, music or talking with other people; I just feel like it is important I always remain calm."
Lewis-Skelly, who was recently included in the England squad, also emphasized the value of mindfulness and a strong support system. "It is definitely the people around me that help me with these types of principles and concepts," he stated. "But it just comes from practising mindfulness, because I want to touch on how important the mind is."
He further elaborated on the benefits of daily journaling, describing it as a method for introspection. "Journaling helps me to understand what brings me joy, what brings me happiness, what takes away my joy, what takes away my happiness," he said. "It just allows me to be more intentional about what I am thinking. It does translate on the pitch."
Lewis-Skelly is one of four Arsenal players named in the current England squad. He last represented England in October 2025 during a World Cup qualifier against Latvia. The midfielder, who joined Arsenal's Hale End Academy at the age of eight, reflected on the journey, advising his younger self to "enjoy what you do. You can't lose that love. You can't lose that passion, that desire for what you do, because once that love is out of the window, you may as well choose a new profession. Stay loving and stay true to your passion."