Get Your Zen On: How Neurofeedback Supports Flow States and Meditation
Have you ever felt completely immersed in an activity, where everything just clicks? Artists call it being "in the zone", athletes describe it as the elusive "runner's high", while psychologists use the term "flow state".
We've all experienced this feeling of absorption at some point. Time seems to disappear as you intently focus, your skills perfectly match the task, and you feel energised yet perfectly calm.
This magical mindset not only leads to better outcomes but also provides profound enjoyment, fulfilment and presence. Who wouldn't want to be able to access it on command?
New research suggests that neurofeedback technology may offer a pathway for triggering flow states while also boosting meditation benefits.
What Is Neurofeedback?
Put simply, neurofeedback trains your brainwaves in real-time using audio and visual cues. Sensors monitor activity levels signaling whether you're calm or agitated.
When you become distracted or tense during meditating or an activity, it gently guides you back towards brainwave frequencies associated with wakeful relaxation.
This allows you to recognise unhelpful mental states and consciously shift into more optimal ones. With practice, this self-regulation can become automated so you smoothly enter immersive focus.
Neurofeedback Benefits
Research into neurofeedback indicates it may provide both physical and mental perks:
Increased feelings of tranquility, presence and time dilation - the hallmarks of meditative and flow states
Reduced symptoms of stress, anxiety, fatigue and chronic pain
Enhanced sensory-motor coordination for sports, music, gaming, art etc.
Improved concentration and decision-making abilities
It essentially acts like a meditation accelerator by allowing you to watch the very thoughts, emotions and sensations that typically interrupt awareness. Then you can consciously change your inner experience.
Trying Neurofeedback
Intrigued in enhancing your mindfulness and accessing those glorious flow states more often? Curious about a brain hack for boosting both your chill vibes and performance? Have you ever given neurofeedback a go or do you have any other flow state tips to share?
