The Power of Flow State: Reconnecting With What Makes You Feel Most Alive
How often do you get so immersed in something so fulfilling that when you finally look up, hours have passed and meals have been missed? Maybe it happens often, maybe not – and when it does, you pour your whole heart and soul into it. That state is called flow. And truly, what is more magical than being in a state of flow?
Recall the last time you were in that beautiful place. For me, it’s pretty much anytime I’m dancing – on my trapeze or with a partner – when I’m fully immersed in the music and let my body lead (or follow) instinctively. It’s an incredibly rich and fulfilling feeling, and it’s nearly impossible to replicate on command.
This type of energy is all about connection. Connection to yourself, to the people around you, to the world that surrounds you. In this state, you’re co creating with your intuition, the materials you’re using, your own body, the moment you’re shaping, the energy of an idea, and maybe even the people who will eventually receive or experience what you’re creating. It feels like you are part of something bigger than yourself – like the thing you’re creating is coming through you, not only from you.
Grab a notebook and pen (studies show that writing by hand activates more of the brain and strengthens memory, learning, and focus far more effectively than typing) and let yourself explore:
What are the benefits of being in this flow state more often?
How can you be more intentional about tapping into this energy?
What is one small step you could take this week to spend more time absorbing and creating this energy?
I wholeheartedly believe this energy is medicinal to my mind, my body, and my soul. And as I grow older, I find myself becoming more intentional – consciously choosing to spend more of my very valuable energy here. In a world that constantly pulls us into urgency and output, these moments of flow are some of the few places we return to ourselves.
Of course, like anything powerful, there’s a shadow side. While this energy is incredibly lovely and expansive, balance matters. Sometimes when we let intuition lead fully, we forget to bring in even a small dose of logic or grounding. That’s when anchoring yourself becomes important. Grounding isn’t the opposite of flow – it’s what allows you to consciously return to it again and again.
So, what is the thing that takes you into this state? Writing, painting, drawing, singing, playing an instrument – or, like me, dancing? What would it take to draw a boundary and make the conscious choice to spend just one more hour next week doing that thing – and actually follow through?
Here’s a grounding exercise for you to try (I personally do this one regularly): I spray a bit of Florida Water – a traditional cleansing and grounding cologne – onto my palm, rub my hands together, cup them over my nose and mouth, and breathe it in. It’s incredibly invigorating and immediately grounding. A more accessible option is simply going outside barefoot, standing on the grass, and taking a few deep breaths in through your nose and out through your mouth.
Your body always knows the way back. Let your body lead you back to the places where time dissolves and you feel most like yourself. And if you want to take it one step further, create a tiny ritual: choose one color, one word, or one movement that captures your flow state – and let it be your reminder to return to it.
If you want more daily coaching musings and creative prompts to deepen your self‑awareness and reconnect with your creative self, come join me over on Coaching.Creatives
