What is a flow state?
Our busy on-the-go lives have created havoc on our body and nervous system. Finding time to slow down and connect with people or things we love can feel unrealistic. When was the last time you lost track of time, allowing yourself to just flow and completely immerse yourself in something?
These moments can be called “flow” experiences. People are often happiest and create the best memories when they find this sense of effortless action. These states could occur while you are singing, crafting, gardening, or reading a good book. It also may be connected to what you do for a living or during social interactions. That sense of fluidity between your body and mind, where you are totally absorbed by and deeply focused on something, beyond the point of distraction.
How can you find more flow in your life? I believe the first step is recognizing and appreciating these moments. Maybe start a list of activities that you find most enjoyable and intrinsically rewarding. Having a goal or an activity that provides a bit of challenge is also important. In addition, having a goal or some skill and experiential learning can leave you feeling energized with accomplishment!
Next, allow yourself to plan and cultivate more of these moments. How do you prioritize things? Is it by writing it in your planner, using post-it notes, setting reminders on your phone or sharing your plan with your partner? Also, is there a better time of day to carve out time for these activities. As moms, if we can prioritize flow, it will allow you to be more present and available to your family. Try adding it into your routine once or twice a week.
A meditation practice can also ignite more flow in your life. It can create more mindfulness and intention in your days. Flow states are like mindfulness because it requires focus on the present moment. When you can be present, and not thinking about what happens next, your system is more relaxed and contributes to overall wellbeing. I love waking up with morning meditation before the morning rush, even if only for a few minutes. My favorite free app is insight timer
Unplugging and eliminating distractions are big factors in the ability to activate flow states. Recovery days and times where we connect, wind down and recharge also play a key role. Putting your phone away during family time or before bed, is a great time to unplug.
This all might seem overwhelming, however, I believe you can find flow in the simple things and be incorporated into daily tasks you already do. For example, I love the challenge of creating a meal with whatever I have in the fridge. I take an inventory then start chopping, prepping, and creating. One of my kids often wants to pop in and help. Sometimes we add music and dancing. I just let this time flow and we see what comes to together on our plates!
Bedtime can be such a stressful time…aka “Mama, can I have a glass of water, one more kiss, another blanket?” You are ready for your time or time with your spouse. Instead of rushing, enter with the mindset of connection. Enjoy some pillow talk, cuddles, and bonding. It will help you both wind down and flow into a better night’s rest!
Start small with simple things and as things start “flowing” it will start to feel more natural. Your quality of life will change for the better. Laugh, love, create and be social….allow yourself to get in the zone!