This week on the SuperAge podcast, we sit down with Steven Kotler, renowned author and expert on flow states and peak performance aging. Steven shares his groundbreaking insights into how flow can significantly improve our quality of life and even extend our longevity. We discuss the practical applications of flow in everyday life and its potential to mitigate mental health challenges like depression and anxiety. Steven also highlights how maintaining the right mindset and engaging in challenging, creative, and social activities can add years to our lives.
Want more? Subscribe to the AGEIST weekly magazine today at: ageist.com/newsletter
What kind of SuperAger are you? Check the SuperAge Quiz and find out! (visit: ageist.com/quiz)
Thanks to our sponsors:
LMNT Electrolytes — our favorite electrolytes for optimal hydration. Listeners receive a free 8-serving sample pack with their purchase at DrinkLMNT.com/AGEIST.
Timeline Nutrition — our favorite supplement for cell support and mitochondrial function. Listeners receive 10% off your first order of Mitopure with code AGEIST at TimelineNutrition.com/ageist.
Our Place – our favorite cookware brand for non-toxic, PFA-free pots and brands. Use code “AGEIST” for 10% off at fromourplace.com
Key Moments
“Flow underpins happiness, wellbeing, and overall life satisfaction.”
“Everything we thought we knew about aging is wrong.”
“The right mindset around aging can add seven and a half years to your life.”
Connect with Steven Kotler
Zero To Dangerous
Website
Instagram
LinkedIn
Books
Connect with AGEIST
Newsletter
Instagram
Website
Kotler’s work, which spans decades of research and practical application, reveals the profound impact that flow states can have on our mental and physical wellbeing. By understanding and harnessing the power of flow, individuals can enhance their performance, extend their longevity, and significantly improve their quality of life.
Understanding Flow States
Flow is described as an optimal state of consciousness where we feel and perform our best. This experience is characterized by complete absorption in an activity, where time seems to either speed up or slow down. Kotler explains that flow states are not just limited to athletes or artists but can be experienced by anyone engaged in challenging and meaningful tasks. Ex: a deep conversation with a colleague. The key to achieving flow is finding the right balance between challenge and skill, aka: the “flow channel.”
Practical Applications of Flow
One of the most compelling aspects of Kotler’s work is the practical application of flow in everyday life. By incorporating activities that are challenging, creative, and social, individuals can regularly access flow states. Kotler emphasizes that engaging in these activities in novel outdoor environments can add up to a decade to our lives. This approach to high-performance aging challenges the traditional notion that mental and physical decline is inevitable.
Mental Health Benefits
Kotler’s research also highlights the mental health benefits of flow states. Regularly accessing flow can serve as a protective factor against mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, and even PTSD. The neurochemicals released during such states not only enhance mood but also improve overall mental health and resilience. This makes flow a powerful tool for both prevention and treatment of mental health issues.
Achieving High-Performance Aging
Lastly, Kotler delves into the concept of high-performance aging. He argues that the right mindset and lifestyle choices can dramatically alter our aging trajectory. By regularly engaging in activities that promote flow, individuals can maintain their mental and physical capabilities well into their later years. Kotler’s insights provide a roadmap for anyone looking to age gracefully and powerfully.
For those interested in learning more about Steven Kotler’s work, his books offer a wealth of knowledge on flow states and high-performance aging. By embracing the principles of flow, we can unlock our potential, enhance our wellbeing, and add meaningful years to our lives.
The ideas expressed here are solely the opinions of the author and are not researched or verified by AGEIST LLC, or anyone associated with AGEIST LLC. This material should not be construed as medical advice or recommendation, it is for informational use only. We encourage all readers to discuss with your qualified practitioners the relevance of the application of any of these ideas to your life. The recommendations contained herein are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. You should always consult your physician or other qualified health provider before starting any new treatment or stopping any treatment that has been prescribed for you by your physician or other qualified health provider. Please call your doctor or 911 immediately if you think you may have a medical or psychiatric emergency.
AUTHOR
