This week on the podcast we dive in flow states! What they are and how they’re an opportunity to tap into your joy. But first, a quick word from today’s sponsor…me!
If you’re enjoying today’s episode and want to learn more about cultivating joy, gratitude, health, and wellness in your own life, then my six month health coaching program could be the perfect fit for you! During the program, we’ll evaluate where you stand today and from there set purposeful goals, establish new habits, and take meaningful, sustainable steps towards a healthier, empowered lifestyle. What I love most about being a health coach is working with you one-on-one to craft a program that’s unique to your goals while serving as your accountability buddy, number 1 cheerleader, and also the person that can give you a little tough love when needed. To get started, schedule a complimentary consultation at mskatehouse.com/contact. I can’t wait to support your health and wellness journey!
So, what is a flow state? I personally like Headspace’s definition. They say, “You may have experienced a flow state at some point — that sense of fluidity between your body and mind, where you are totally absorbed by and deeply focused on something, beyond the point of distraction. Time feels like it has slowed down. Your senses are heightened. You are at one with the task at hand, as action and awareness sync to create an effortless momentum. Some people describe this feeling as being “in the zone.” This is the flow state and it’s accessible to everyone, whether you’re engaged in a physical activity, a creative pursuit, or even a simple day-to-day task.”
What I appreciate most about flow states is the ability to be fully present and the enjoyment found in purposeful focus. Any heaviness I might normally feel melts away as I lose myself in the task at hand. For me, flow states most often happen when running, painting / drawing, cooking, or writing. And the majority of the time, music is involved! It’s almost as if the music gets me “in the zone” faster.
One way to help get into a state of flow, is to first quiet your mind. You might journal, practice breathwork, or meditating might help! Feel free to listen to any of my free Mini Meditation Bonus Episodes to help with this. In this episode, I also pay homage to my friend and yoga mentor, Lara Devine. Lara is an unparalleled yoga instructor, educator, and coach, and her ability to help you slow down, breathe, and be beautifully in the moment is an incredible gift she shares with the world. You can learn more about Lara and her company, The Mindfull Experience, on her website or Instagram @devineyogini.
Are you ready to make yourself and your joy a priority? Excellent! I’ve created a freebie just for you that walks you through finding your state of flow. Be sure to tag me on social @livebydesignpodcast so I can follow your joyful journey!
In this week’s joyful corner I share how I’m grateful to my aunt who gifted me an ice cream maker as a wedding shower gift, years ago! Nowadays, I’m taking our toddlers out less frequently, but I’m still trying to make this summer special. Enter our ice cream machine. Once a week we’ve been playing around with different recipes, and our two-year-old especially loves helping mix all of the ingredients and turn the machine on. Our ice cream machine is no longer in production, but here’s a similar one I think will do the trick! And as promised, here’s our very favorite strawberry ice cream recipe. We’ve made it many, many times as it’s a family favorite!
I’m looking forward to seeing you on Thursday when our next Mini Meditation Episode drops and next week where I host my first episode with my husband, Dennis! We discuss our couples gratitude practice and the positive impact it’s had on our own personal lives as well as our relationship as a couple.
