Flow as a Non-Ordinary State of Consciousness: A Comparative Perspective with Awe, Meditation, and Psychedelic Experiences

This thesis aims to explore flow as a non-ordinary state of consciousness (NOSC) that temporarily alters ordinary consciousness in non-pathological ways. Flow, also referred to as “optimal experience” in positive psychology by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, is a state of deep immersion and energized focus in an activity, typically involving an altered perception of time, attentional absorption, and a diminished sense of self. Through a comparative approach, this thesis investigates the phenomenological and neurocognitive mechanisms underlying flow, such as reduced activity in the default mode network (DMN) and transient hypofrontality. Flow is examined alongside other NOSCs and non-ordinary mental expressions (NOMEs), such as meditation, awe, psychedelic experiences, and peak states, to identify both common and distinguishing characteristics. While many of these states involve forms of self-transcendence, flow is uniquely characterized by its active, task-oriented, and autotelic nature. By comparing flow to other altered states, this thesis contributes to a deeper understanding of the dynamic nature of consciousness and its potential role in optimal human experience and well-being, offering insights into how these experiences support psychological functioning.