DURING YOUR MOVEMENT…
These tips keep the response strong all session long
STRUGGLE THROUGH THE STRUGGLE
It may not feel like it, but when you’re having a hard time deciding whether to lace up your running shoes in the morning, you’re at the gates of flow. ‘The brain requires a little friction in order to get some traction, and for most of us, that friction shows up as something unpleasant,’ says Dr Sarkis. ‘We are distracted and can’t seem to get into it, or we’re working really hard, pushing ourselves past our comfort zones, taking in lots of information.’ The brain experiences this as a struggle, which it needs in order to get into flow. So if the struggle is all too real, know that you’re simply on the brink of a breakthrough. Keep going!
ELIMINATE DISTRACTIONS
To set the stage, put your phone on ‘do not disturb’ so you can still listen to music (FYI, whether music helps or harms your flow potential depends on the individual, says Dr Sarkis) or just run in silence without the interruption of incoming texts, Dr Sarkis says. Run before or after work when you won’t be bothered by colleagues, or when a babysitter or partner can watch the kids so you can forget parenting stress.
TAP INTO YOUR MIND-BODY CONNECTION
Immediate feedback is another facilitator. This could be a running buddy giving feedback on your form, or your own ability to be aware of your movement and self-assess and correct where necessary. ‘Be present and consider, “What’s my body telling me?” “What do I need to tweak?” “Where am I feeling unnecessary tension while running: in my jaw or hands?”’ says Dr Sarkis. ‘Making these little tweaks as you go along gives you a sense of flow-inducing autonomy.’
OR PUT YOUR ATTENTION ELSEWHERE
Remember what we said about flow triggers being individual? For some people, distracting themselves from the physical sensations they’re experiencing is the key to maintaining flow state. For example, focusing on music, letting your mind wander, taking in picturesque scenery or chatting to a running buddy could help you keep your mind away from thoughts about the effort you’re putting in, Dr Jackman says.