In neuroscience, the concept of ‘flow’ is all the rage.
Flow describes a specific mental state that allows us to focus intensely on a single task or subject matter.
In this state, time will appear to dilate and slow around us, giving us more time to react and improve our performance significantly.
At the same time, we become faster at solving problems and responding, and we can completely block out all distracting thoughts and temptations.
So, what is this ‘flow’ precisely, and how does it come about?
Flow Explained
Flow is a mental state in much the same way that the ‘fight or flight’ puts us into a particular form of mind.
A flow state is very similar to the fight or flight response, with the primary difference being that fight or flight makes us more panicked and distracted, whereas flow is slightly calmer and more positive.
A sense of danger and importance triggers both states. When the body detects that it is in danger or working toward a fundamental goal, it will produce chemicals such as dopamine, norepinephrine, and cortisol.
These increase the heart rate, contract the muscles, and generally make us more alert and ready for action.
The difference is that a flow state produces serotonin (the feel-good hormone) and anandamide (the ‘bliss’ hormone). This makes the sensation far more euphoric and also makes us more creatively inclined.
In other words: this is danger/importance with enjoyment and excitement.
Common ‘triggers’ of flow states include surfing, snowboarding, and sports. This is any moment when you have lost track of time and what you are and instead begun to move purely through space without distraction.
This can also happen when you perform in a band and become one with the music.
Or when you’re engaged in a fascinating discussion and lose all track of time.
How to Access Flow
So how do you access this tremendous mental state and find your flow? You must focus 100% on your actions by building their importance in your mind.
Meditation can help you improve your focus, while CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) can teach you to change how you feel about different activities.
Ultimately, it would help to remind yourself why what you’re doing is essential and fully engaged at that moment. Only then can you tap into your flow!
