Hi, Sam here. Welcome to Thursday and to Radio Headspace.

So we use the word flow a lot. Whether we go with the flow or get into the flow, we can

all agree that it seems like a pretty pleasant state to be in. It turns out that the state of

flow has been studied thoroughly to reveal what it really is, how to get into it, and how

it can benefit us. Flow is described by researcher Mihai Chikcent Mihai as a state of being when

one is fully engaged in a task that is just challenging enough to be engaging and rewarding.

Using flow, our brain's dopaminergic reward system is more active. This essentially means

that our brains send a chemical signal for us to feel good. We have an increased sense of

optimism and hope. We feel energized and motivated. There are two main modes associated with motivation,

which are exploitation and exploration. When our brain is in an exploitation mode, it has

determined that a perceived reward is worth the effort that it takes to attain it. But when we're

in an exploration mode, we're easily distracted and prone to self-referential thinking like worry

and rumination. An essence our brain has determined that the task in front of us is not worth the

reward or is too challenging for us. To reach flow, we must devote some time and energy into getting

relatively good at something. Therefore, flow states are commonly experienced by artists,

musicians, and athletes who have mastered their craft. But flow is not limited to this select group.

We can experience flow at work in moments when we're absorbed in what we're doing,

enjoying ourselves, and feeling intrinsically motivated. Upon reflecting on moments when I've

experienced flow, I recall times when I was providing mindfulness coaching and playing

board games that were especially challenging. When I'm coaching, I'm connecting with the person

in front of me through openness, non-judgment, and deep attention. I'm also noticing thoughts,

feelings, and sensations that arise within me as I'm listening. And they provide insights or points

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