Irish American who became first person to cross Antarctica alone reveals secrets to success

Colin O’Brady relied on these mantras to get him through the journey

Colin O’Brady, who recently became the first person to cross Antarctica alone, says that he relied on simple mantras to carry him through his courageous journey.

Read More: An Irish American has become the first person to cross Antarctica alone and unaided

Speaking with Business Insider, O’Brady shared what he told himself every day to push through the brutal 54-day journey.

"You're strong, you're capable," O’Brady said, and "This too shall change. This too shall pass,” provided the motivation and focus for the adventurer to persevere.

O’Brady shared how the journey was the longest amount of time he has ever spent alone. He would tell himself: "It will be sunny again at some point. The wind will calm down," as well as, "As long as I keep putting that one foot in front of the other, keep trying to make progress," to stay focused.

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"Hopefully, I can make it to the other end,” was another. O’Brady is now the first person to complete the solo mission - no one before him has completed it nor survived the journey.

Business Insider reports on the significant impact of such mantras. A 2018 study that focused on emergency room workers in Ireland found that after just “four four-hour-long mantra meditation sessions, those doctors and nurses improved their focus at work and felt calmer with their colleagues. Some even slept better after their trainings.”

Unaided by anything other than skis and his 375 pounds of supplies, O’Brady became the first person to traverse 932 miles across the Antarctic continent on his own on December 26, finishing an astonishing 16 days ahead of schedule.

Read More: Hero Irish Antarctic explorer Tom Crean born on this day in 1877

Of course, it wasn’t just the power of positive thinking that helped O’Brady through his trek. He said he engaged in intense training - both mental and physical - prior to his attempt, including adding 20 pounds of muscle mass, and participating in vipassana meditation retreats.

"Completely free, highly recommend," he said of the retreats.

O’Brady’s massive achievement comes just 8 years after he suffered major burn injuries to his legs, after which doctors said he may never be able to walk again. The determined man went on to become a successful triathlete before turning his attention to mountain climbing and exploring.

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"Proving to myself that I can finish that is something that I will carry with me throughout my entire life," he said.

Do you use mantras to help yourself through difficult situations? Share in the comments!