Flow state meditation: 3 tips to get into the zone

You’ve probably felt it before – that feeling when everything clicks, and you become totally absorbed in what you’re doing. Time seems to slow down, your senses sharpen, and you become fully present in the moment.

That perfect sync between body and mind is often called “being in the zone” or a “flow state”. It’s a powerful mindset where every action feels effortless and your focus is absolute.

And here’s the best part: with some practice, anyone can get into a flow state. No matter what you’re doing, this state of deep focus and momentum is within reach – and understanding it can help you tap into your potential in a whole new way.

What is a flow state?

Popularized by psychologists Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi and Jeanne Nakamura, a flow state is a feeling of complete immersion in whatever you’re doing. And they meant anything – whether you’re doing a HIIT workout, an art project, or even hanging the laundry.

In a 2004 TED Talk, Csikszentmihalyi described a flow state as “a sense of ecstasy and a sense of clarity,” where you know exactly what to do from one moment to the next, guided purely by instinct and immediate feedback. And best of all, their research revealed that this state is achievable by anyone, given the right conditions.

Flow doesn’t typically happen during relaxation – it’s more common in moments of intense engagement. As Csikszentmihalyi explains, “The best moments usually occur when a person’s body or mind is stretched to its limits in a voluntary effort to accomplish something difficult and worthwhile.” When we reach this point, we tap into a state that leaves us feeling energized, motivated, and fulfilled.

1 /2

Ready to find your flow state? Get into the zone with Michael Olajide Jr.

Meditating can help you achieve flow state

When we meditate (or practice a mindfulness exercise), we completely engage with our current activity, free from distraction and judgment. Think of our brain as a muscle – through meditation, we train our minds to focus, observe distractions, and consciously ignore them – helping us to focus on the task at hand. This practice creates the mental conditions that make it easier to achieve a flow state.

And just like any other physical exercise – the more you do it, the easier it’ll become.

The benefits of achieving flow state

Getting into a flow state isn’t just about getting things done as quickly as possible. It’s about finding deep satisfaction in the activity you’re doing, all while feeling great on the side.

A flow state can help you achieve:

More productivity: The heightened focus from being in a flow state often helps you be more efficient with your current task.
Increased clarity: Your mind and body instinctively know what to do without overthinking, guiding you seamlessly from one step to the next.
Freedom from distractions: Stress, worry, and self-doubt take a back seat, freeing your mind from the usual barriers that hold you back.
Positive emotions: A flow state is often described as a positive, rewarding experience that arises naturally from being fully in the moment, and doing something you genuinely enjoy.

2 /2

Flow state meditation is one of Chris Hemsworth’s favorite mindfulness practices.

How to get into a flow state

Here are the three most important things to consider when you’re looking to tap into a flow state.

1. Engage with something meaningful. The more the task matters to you, the easier it is to start flowing.

2. Find the right level of difficulty. Pick an activity that challenges you, but isn’t entirely out of your skill level.

3. Focus on the journey, not the goal. It’s much easier to achieve a flow state when you focus on progress, not the outcome.

Extra tips to achieve maximum flow

While the three strategies above are a great starting point, here are more tips to help you fully get into the zone.

1. Do what you love
It’s important to pick an activity you genuinely enjoy, which will naturally keep you motivated and focused.

2. Create a pre-task ritual
Set up a small ritual to tell your brain it’s time to focus. Whether it’s a short breathing exercise, a stretching session, or making tea, these steps will help prepare your mind for uninterrupted concentration.

3. Prioritize a single task
A flow state is best achieved when you can get fully absorbed into one meaningful task. Multitasking divides your attention and makes it harder to reach that deep, uninterrupted focus.

4. Learn when you’re most productive
For many, this is usually after a good night’s sleep. But if you’re more of a night owl, there’s no harm in flowing in the evening.

5. Eliminate distractions
Put your phone on silent and declutter your working space – you’ll find it easier to focus.

Looking for more on focus and meditation?

Sign up to unlock your full potential

Coaching On Demand and And In Your Hand

When you need a sweat session or an extra boost, your personal fitness coach is just a tap away.

Fitness On Your Terms

Goodbye cookie-cutter workouts and generic coaching. Every Centr training session is tailored to your goals.

Meals & Mindset Coaching

Elevate your performance with meals to fuel you and mindset exercises to recharge you.

Mind

Centr Team