Flow and Ecstasy A good jazz musician will pass into an almos | Human Nature

Flow and Ecstasy

A good jazz musician will pass into an almost trancelike state when he is playing. Engulfed by the ecstatic feeling of “flow,” he becomes totally absorbed by his music and performance. The idea of "flow" came from people who appeared to get a lot out of life, either in their work or their leisure activities—not only creative professionals such as artists and musicians, but people from all walks of life, including surgeons and business leaders, and those who found satisfaction in pursuits such as sports and games.

Flow is a sensation people experience when they are totally engaged in an activity they enjoyed and could do well. People have reported achieving a state of mind with no sense of self, in which things came to them automatically—a feeling of “flow.” It starts with “a narrowing of attention on a clearly defined goal. We feel involved, concentrated, absorbed. We know what must be done, and we get immediate feedback as to how well we are doing.” A musician knows instantly if the notes he plays sound as they should; a tennis player knows the ball he hits will reach its destination. People experiencing flow also describe feelings of timelessness, clarity, and serenity, which led us to liken it to a state of ecstasy (Greek ekstasis, meaning “being outside oneself”). A major part of the enjoyment of flow is the sense of being outside everyday reality, totally separated from the cares and worries of ordinary life.

Flow is key to optimal enjoyment of any activity, and consequently to a fulfilling life. But how can flow be achieved? Studies of people who regularly reached this “ecstatic” state, shows that it always occurred when the challenge of an activity matched a person’s skills; the task was doable, but also extended their capabilities and demanded total concentration. Only a reasonable balance of ability and difficulty could lead to flow. If someone’s skills were not up to the task, this led to anxiety, and if the task was too easily done, it led to boredom or apathy. Flow is a vital element in activity of all kinds, and it's especially important in making work more rewarding and meaningful.

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