"Flow is feeling effortless accomplishment when the brain's stress centers are on and default networks are off. Figure out where you are on the stress-performance rainbow to identify activities to help you get into flow. If you're bored, jumpstart flow with exercise; if anxious, reduce stress with mindfulness or relaxation. Balance incrementally challenging tasks and stress levels with short periods of relaxation."
"The answer is you can't, nor should you try to, jumpstart your work energy so quickly. This is not a sprint; it's a marathon. The trick to getting into a state of flow is to figure out where you are on the continuum of the stress response from 0 to 100 mph and then do those things that will get you back to the stress response's most productive middle. I call it the middle of your stress-performance rainbow."
Flow occurs when stress centers are active and default networks are quiet, producing effortless accomplishment. Optimal performance lies in a moderate stress zone—the middle of a stress-performance rainbow—rather than at extremes of relaxation or high stress. Low-energy states benefit from gradual, incremental energizing activities such as walking, running, swimming, or treadmill work to prime the stress response. High-arousal states benefit from stress reduction through mindfulness, relaxation, or similar techniques. Tasks should be balanced with incremental challenge and short relaxation periods to maintain productive stress levels. Rapid jumps from deep relaxation to intense productivity are ineffective.
Read at Psychology Today
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