What Does Gratitude Have to Do With Flow?
I recently listened to a conversation with Dr. Andrew Huberman and Rich Diviney on the Flow Research Collective Radio podcast. “Mastering Optimal Performance in High-Performance Environments” touched on getting back into the flow state, in other words, distraction recovery. Instead of suppressing negative thoughts that arise, deliberately introducing positive thoughts on top of whatever is running through the mind is key. How can we call up these positive thoughts?
Research by Dr. Glenn Fox at USC is showing that people with a regular gratitude practice have higher flow lifestyles.
This struck a chord with me. In October, I started a regular gratitude practice and have noticed a big, no a huge shift in my happiness, problem-solving, and productivity. My gratitude practice looks like this:
notating a list of 5-10 things every night that I am grateful for
sharing my list with a group of friends.
Items on my list range from walking outside to teaching a great class, okay I will admit, Parkour has NEVER not made my list.
Based on what I heard in the podcast conversation, I believe the practice has shifted my mindset in approaching tasks including playing. I feel more optimistic, which means unnecessary tension from worries, planning, and past events aren’t being held by my tissue. Translating to moving better and thinking better. This comes together in playing, propelling the learning processing, my confidence, and enjoyment. Who knew such a simple practice could shift the trajectory of my work.
As the days get shorter and we head into the new year, I challenge you to start a gratitude practice. Share it with a friend. You don’t need to try any harder than that, let it work its magic in your life and music.
Friday Body Mapping for EveryBODY - Learn about the power of the Hip Joints whether you are kong over an obstacle or sitting down on a chair, hip joints are key! 11am ET
Musicians Tuesday Virtual Drop-In - Mapping the Hands - Find more facility and amazing coordination. 12/15 at 3pm ET