The “flow state” also known as being “in the zone,” refers to a focused mental state in which an individual is fully immersed in an activity, perhaps feeling energized, with effortless action, while also enjoying the process. This term was introduced by psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi in the 1970s. This flow is often described as a state of “optimal experience,” where individuals are so involved in what they are doing that they may lose track of time and may even become oblivious about their surroundings.
I have come to experience this myself through martial arts training with weapons practice where one strives to harmonize the movement of the sword with the mind and body engagement. See my broadsword demonstration. https://youtu.be/d_KmKHFbCt8?si=GMYvzTs9IpmmUN63&t=491
I have seen others achieve the flow state through rowing or crew. In rowing this flow state is referred to as “perfect swing” or just swing. Swing only happens when all eight rowers are rowing in such perfect unison that no single action by anyone is out of sync with those of all the others. Only then will the boat continue to move, unchecked, fluidly and gracefully between the pulls of the oars.
Characteristics of the flow state may include:
- Intense Concentration: People in a state of flow are deeply focused on the task in the present moment. They experience a sense of clarity and concentration, with a heightened focus on the present moment.
- Loss of Self-consciousness: People in flow often report a decreased awareness of themselves. They are not too concerned with how they are perceived by others or with thoughts of failure and success.
- Timelessness: Flow activities can create a sense of time distortion. Some people may feel that time is passing quickly or, conversely, that they’ve been experiencing an activity for a much longer period than actually has transpired.
- Intrinsic Motivation: Flow is often linked with intrinsically rewarding activities. The satisfaction and enjoyment come from the activity itself rather than external recognition or rewards.
- Clear Goals: Activities that produce flow typically have concise and achievable goals. Individuals understand what needs to be done, and feedback is immediate.
- A Balance of Skill and Challenge: Flow manifests when the level of challenge in an activity is highly compatible with an individual’s skill level. If the activity is too easy, it may lead to boredom. If the activity is too difficult, it can result in anxiety or insecurity.
Some common examples of activities that may manifest into a flow state include certain sports, playing musical instruments, writing/journaling, painting, martial arts, target shooting, or other artistic endeavors, or any other task that requires some skill, ability, and concentration. Achieving a flow state can have many positive effects on overall physical health, mental well-being, creativity, and even performance. Many pursue flow-inducing activities to further enhance their experiences and productivity.
There are several benefits to experiencing a flow state. These may include:
- Increased productivity and creativity
- Reduced stress and anxiety
- Improved mood and well-being
- Greater sense of self-efficacy
How can one achieve a flow state? There is no one-size-fits-all answer. If someone can find activities that they enjoy and that challenge them just enough, they’ll be more likely to experience a flow state. And once they do, they will better understand why it’s such a sought-after experience. However, there are several things someone can do to increase their chances of experiencing it. These may include:
- Choose a challenging but achievable task.
- Set clear goals for yourself.
- Remove distractions.
- Get into a relaxed but focused state of mind.
- Be fully present in the moment.
Some additional tips for achieving a flow state:
- Find a passion. What activities do you get lost in? What makes you lose track of the world around you? Once you know what your passions are, you can begin to focus on activities that are related to them.
- Set smaller, more achievable goals. When you’re starting out, it’s imperative to set goals that are challenging enough but not too difficult. If you set goals that are too out of reach, you’re more likely to get discouraged and give up.
- Break down bigger tasks into smaller ones. This will make challenges seem less daunting and more manageable.
- Get rid of external and internal distractions. When you’re trying to achieve a flow state, it’s important to reduce as many distractions as possible. Turn off the phone, close the email app, and seek a quiet place to perform your tasks.
- Be present in the moment. Put your mind where you are at. Don’t dwell on the past or worry about the future. Try to focus on the task at hand and enjoy the experience.
I teach and offer lectures about holistic health, physical fitness, stress management, human behavior, meditation, phytotherapy (herbs), music for healing, self-massage (acupressure), Daoyin (yoga), qigong, tai chi, and baguazhang.
Please contact me if you, your business, organization, or group, might be interested in hosting me to speak on a wide spectrum of topics relative to better health, fitness, and well-being.
I look forward to further sharing more of my message by partnering with hospitals, wellness centers, VA centers, schools on all levels, businesses, and individuals who see the value in building a stronger nation through building a healthier population.
I also have hundreds of FREE education video classes, lectures, and seminars available on my YouTube channel at:
https://www.youtube.com/c/MindandBodyExercises
Many of my publications can be found on Amazon at:
http://www.Amazon.com/author/jimmoltzan
My holistic health blog is available at:
https://mindandbodyexercises.wordpress.com/
http://www.MindAndBodyExercises.com
Mind and Body Exercises on Google: https://posts.gle/aD47Qo
Jim Moltzan
407-234-0119
United Martial Arts Association 
