You've probably felt that “in the zone” feeling without even knowing it's called flow state. Think about when you were totally absorbed in playing music, cooking a delicious meal, or surfing. You were so focused that time seemed to disappear, and everything just felt effortless.
This blog post is all about exploring what flow state is, how surfing can help you achieve it, and the incredible benefits it brings, like feeling happier, performing better, and connecting more deeply with the ocean.
What Is a Flow State?
Flow state is all about being completely absorbed in what you're doing like you're a part of the action itself. It's like a mental superpower that lets you lose yourself in the moment.
Psychologists Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi and Jeanne Nakamura studied this feeling in-depth, and they found that the flow state happens when things just click. It's like your focus becomes a laser beam, and you get a rush of energy and clarity. Csikszentmihalyi explained it this way in a TED Talk: “It's a focus that becomes intense, leading to a sense of ecstasy and clarity. You know exactly what to do next, and you get instant feedback.”
He and Nakamura interviewed many successful people like mountain climbers, chess players, surgeons, and dancers, who described feeling “in the zone”.
They found that when you're deeply passionate about something, totally focused, and completely immersed in the activity, you're setting the stage for flow state. Your usual worries and thoughts seem to disappear, and you enter a state of peaceful concentration. Even your body seems to forget about its aches and pains. All that matters is the task at hand.
Interestingly, flow state isn't something you experience while relaxing. It's about pushing yourself, tackling challenges, and engaging fully with something you enjoy. As Csikszentmihalyi said, "The best moments of our lives aren't passive and relaxing... they happen when we stretch ourselves to our limits, trying hard to do something challenging and meaningful."
So, what's the science behind it? Our minds can handle a lot of information, up to 120 bits per second! When we take on a challenging task, our brains use all that power. And if it's something we enjoy and are good at, we enter flow state. It's a powerful feeling that leaves us happy, motivated, and fulfilled.
The Surprising Benefits of Achieving Flow State
Now, you might be wondering, why is flow state such a big deal? Well, the amazing people Csikszentmihalyi studied, who were all amazing in their fields, from surfing to climbing mountains, all had one thing in common: they were high achievers who loved what they did. They found joy in pushing themselves and achieving challenges.
Here's why flow state is so valuable:
- Laser Focus: When you're in flow, distractions fade away, and you can concentrate on your work with amazing intensity. This leads to better quality work, faster.
- Pure Joy: Flow state feels amazing. It's not just a temporary good feeling, it's a deep, genuine happiness that comes from being completely immersed in something you love.
- Clarity of Mind: It's like your mind and body are on the same wavelength. You know exactly what to do next, without overthinking it. It's a smooth and natural flow.
- Overcoming Inner Barriers: All those nagging thoughts and feelings like stress, worry, and self-doubt just melt away when you're in flow. It's like a mental reset button.
- Deep Happiness: The happiness you experience in flow state is more than just a quick buzz. It's a deep sense of well-being that lasts long after the activity is over. It's a feeling of fulfillment and satisfaction.
- Feeling the Ocean's Pulse: Flow state is a well-established theory in sports, and surfers often experience it profoundly! When you're in flow while surfing, it's like you and the ocean become one. You feel a sense of unity and happiness. Afterward, you'll realize you've shared a special moment with the ocean, and your connection to it will be stronger than ever. You'll want to return often, and you'll feel a deeper urge to protect this incredible force of nature.
How Can Surfing Help You Achieve Flow State?
Surfing is one of the best ways to experience flow state! The feeling of being one with the ocean, moving with its rhythm, is truly special. You'll find that flow state doesn't always happen instantly, but the more you practice, the more likely you are to experience it. Don't worry if it doesn't click right away – keep trying, and you'll get there! Here are some tips to help you along the way…
#1 Practice Makes Perfect
Flow state won't happen overnight. The more time you spend in the water, the more comfortable you'll become with the waves' movements. You'll move past that initial feeling of anxiety when you're hit by a wave and start to enjoy the challenge.
As you get better, you'll set your own goals and find that sweet spot where you're pushing yourself, but not scared. It's about finding that perfect balance!
#2 Focus on the Ride
Getting ready to surf, or waiting for that perfect wave, can be tricky. Your mind might be full of thoughts, pulling you away from the moment. But just like when you're surfing, you can learn to ride the waves of your mind too!
Meditation and mindfulness techniques can help you quiet those distractions and focus on the experience of surfing itself. It's like tuning in to your own internal radio station and choosing the channel of peace and focus.
#3 Let Go and Enjoy
Flow state doesn't happen when you try to force it. It's like trying to catch a wave by chasing it - you'll just end up frustrated and exhausted. Instead, let go of trying to control everything. Relax, be fully present, and let the ocean guide you.
You can't control the waves or flow state, but you can control your own emotions by staying calm. It might happen unexpectedly, and when it does, you'll know it! It's a truly amazing feeling.
Final Thoughts
Flow state through surfing is about feeling more connected to the ocean, reaching your full potential, and feeling alive.
You don't have to be a pro surfer to experience this feeling. With some practice and a little mindfulness, anyone can find their flow. And while surfing is an amazing way to get there, it's not the only path. Whether it's kitesurfing, cold water swimming, or even something completely different, find your passion and let the feeling of flow take you to a whole new level.