How "The Void" or "The Flow State" Enhances Creativity and Empowerment
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Chapter 1: Understanding The Void and The Flow State
Tapping into that unique space between the conscious and subconscious mind can be a transformative experience.
The concepts of The Void or The Flow State refer to a realm beyond conventional time and space, where one truly exists in the present moment. In this state, you can be both aware and unaware simultaneously, leading to extraordinary experiences.
For instance, I have two notable examples from my life. The first involves my passion for medieval rapier combat, which I have practiced for over three decades. The most exhilarating moments during tournaments or practice sessions occur when I allow my muscle memory to take over. I focus on being present and conscious, allowing the flow of the fight to unfold naturally without overthinking my opponent.
These combat experiences often feel like they are happening in slow motion, with time itself becoming irrelevant. The joy I derive from this martial art is unparalleled.
Another example is writing. When I immerse myself in crafting a story or blog post, the words seem to pour out effortlessly. In these moments, I lose track of time and feel completely centered, ultimately producing a chapter, a post, or even a book. In that space, I am simply a human being, creating something new to share with the world.
Creativity is a direct pathway to accessing The Void or The Flow State, allowing you to recognize and cultivate your personal empowerment. This connection offers a means to take charge of your life experiences.
What exactly do we mean by The Void or The Flow State?
Everyone possesses three distinct mental states. The first is the unconscious mind, which governs involuntary functions such as muscle movements, heartbeat, and respiration. You have little control over this aspect, aside from consciously managing your breathing or heart rate.
The second state is the subconscious mind, where your memories, values, beliefs, and habits reside. While these elements exist largely without your active control, you can access and alter them through conscious effort.
The third state is your conscious mind, which encompasses your self-awareness, including who you are and your current surroundings. Through conscious thought, you can engage with your subconscious to effect change, form new habits, and revisit memories.
There exist two distinct areas between the conscious and subconscious mind: the ego and The Void or The Flow State. The ego often acts as a barrier, creating self-doubt and insecurity. However, through practices like mindfulness, you can reshape the ego.
In contrast, The Void or The Flow State represents a place of pure existence, devoid of ego and time. In this state, you are entirely present and intensely focused on the moment.
How does one enter this state?
When you achieve this state, you often feel as though you are being carried along by the act of creation, where thought, feeling, intention, and action become one. Unlike habitual routines, The Void or The Flow State arises from mindful awareness and intentional action.
For example, when painting, each brushstroke transforms the blank canvas into a masterpiece, and you lose all sense of time. You are simply engaged in the act of creation, reaching a point of tranquility without realizing how long you've been at it—that is The Void or The Flow State.
While painting is a prominent example, many fields, including writing, athletics, science, cooking, acting, and singing, can also lead to this state. What distinguishes this experience from routine is the element of intention; you engage consciously rather than subconsciously.
When you operate within this realm, it can be one of the most empowering sensations—being completely present and consciously aware of your actions fosters a feeling of connection to something greater.
Other methods to access The Void or The Flow State include deep breathing, meditation, yoga, and various mindfulness practices.
The Challenge of Entering The Void or The Flow State
While I aspire to enter The Void or The Flow State every time I engage in fencing, it does not always happen. Often, my greatest obstacle is my own mindset. Overthinking and self-judgment can hinder my performance, causing frustration and preventing me from accessing this state.
Achieving The Void or The Flow State requires a combination of focus and surrender. Initially, you approach an activity with intent, but as you engage, you must also let go and surrender to the experience.
Attempting to force your way into this state can lead to the opposite effect. Instead of being present and engaged, you might become entangled in the ego's perceptions of self-identity, which obstructs access to The Void or The Flow State.
Why is this experience so empowering? Because when you reach a state of ultimate conscious awareness, you are taking action based on your thoughts, feelings, and intentions. This self-empowerment validates your worthiness and capacity to manifest your desires.
Experiencing this state can evoke feelings of bliss, satisfaction, and self-worth, affirming that you are deserving of all that you aspire to achieve in life.
Thank you for joining me on this exploration of creativity. As I share my journey, I invite you to reflect: How can you become your own creator, in whatever form that may take?
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Thank you for reading. I’m Murray "MJ" Blehart, and I write about mindfulness, conscious reality creation, positivity, and my ongoing creative journey.