YOUR MOVEMENT…
These tricks keep the response strong all session long
STRUGGLE THROUGH THE STRUGGLE
When you’re having a hard time deciding whether to lace up your trainers in the morning, you are 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,’ Dr Sarkis says. ‘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 greatness. Keep going.
ELIMINATE DISTRACTIONS
To set the stage, put your phone on ‘do not disturb’ so you can still listen to music (FYI: whether tunes help or hurt depends on the individual, according to Dr Sarkis) or stream a workout without the interruption of incoming texts. Sweat before or after work when you won’t be bothered, or when someone else can take care of the kids so you’re able to stay in the zone.
TAP INTO YOUR MIND-BODY CONNECTION
Immediate feedback is another facilitator. This could be a trainer fixing your form, or your own ability to self-assess and correct. ‘Be present during your workout and consider, “What’s my body telling me? What do I need to tweak to get a little deeper into this yoga pose? Where am I feeling unnecessary tension while running: in my jaw or hands?”’ Dr Sarkis says. ‘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 this state. For example, focusing on music, letting your mind wander, taking in picturesque scenery or conversing with a workout buddy could help keep your mind away from thoughts about the task, Dr Jackman says. You do you.