First few seconds for flow: A comprehensive proposal of the neurobiology and neurodynamics of state onset.

Flow is a cognitive state of complete attentional absorption during a task, marked by intense concentration, a sense of control, feedback, and a balance between challenge and skill. It involves loss of self-consciousness, integration of action and awareness, and altered time perception. This review examines neurophysiological correlates and neuromodulatory processes of flow, focusing on large-scale brain networks and dopaminergic, noradrenergic, and endocannabinoid systems. The authors outline an evidence-based hypothetical scenario and place flow in a broader context with other altered states like psychedelic experiences and traumatic stress. They present a theoretical framework to inspire future testable hypotheses.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Flow is a cognitive state that manifests when there is complete attentional absorption while performing a task. Flow occurs when certain internal as well as external conditions are present, including intense concentration, a sense of control, feedback, and a balance between the challenge of the task and the relevant skillset. Phenomenologically, flow is accompanied by a loss of self-consciousness, seamless integration of action and awareness, and acute changes in time perception. Research has begun to uncover some of the neurophysiological correlates of flow, as well as some of the state's neuromodulatory processes. We comprehensively review this work and consider the neurodynamics of the onset of the state, considering large-scale brain networks, as well as dopaminergic, noradrenergic, and endocannabinoid systems. To accomplish this, we outline an evidence-based hypothetical situation, and consider the flow state in a broader context including other profound alterations in consciousness, such as the psychedelic state and the state of traumatic stress that can induce PTSD. We present a broad theoretical framework which may motivate future testable hypotheses.