Psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi is known for his theory of Flow. According to Csikszentmihalyi: “Flow is being completely involved in an activity for its own sake. The ego falls away. Time flies. Every action, movement, and thought follows inevitably from the previous one, like playing jazz.”
In psychology, "Flow" refers to a state of complete absorption and engagement in an activity. It is a state where one becomes fully immersed in the task at hand, losing self-awareness and the sense of time while maintaining control of their performance. By entering this state, individuals unlock their full potential and derive a deep sense of fulfillment and satisfaction from their endeavors. Evidence suggests that experiencing "Flow" increases motivation, enhances performance and creativity, and reduces anxiety and stress.
Interestingly, the notion of "Flow" has its roots in ancient philosophies, namely in Daoism. The Daoist concept of "Wu Wei, which can translate as "non-doing" or "effortless action," involves acting spontaneously and harmoniously with the flow of nature. It entails letting go of striving, control, and ego-driven motivations, allowing action to unfold without resistance. It invites us to surrender to life rather than grappling against it, to align ourselves with the innate rhythm of the universe.
"Flow," then, is characterized by effortlessness and immersion in the present moment. It is a moment of harmony, during which the self and its environment become one, free of self-imposed or external judgment. In this state, anxiety and fear dissipate, even pain dissolves, allowing us to experience a profound sense of joy and contentment.
Dance, in all its forms, frequently serves (to various degrees) as a direct pathway to accessing the state of "Flow." When we dance, we let go of mental distractions as our movements bring us fully into the present moment. When the movement is effortless, the state of "Flow" can easily be attained.
This issue of A Dance Mag is an invitation to explore states of Flow. How often do we find ourselves in a state of "Flow" when we dance? What obstacles hinder our access to this state? Do states of "Flow" experienced in dance extend to other areas and aspects of life? How does the regular experience of "Flow" impact our personalities, routines, relationships with others, and overall outlook on life?
Note: The fact that the Structure and the Flow themes are published simultaneously does not suggest an opposition. They can be complementary and interconnected.
Submissions Material
Please send an Expression of Interest with a synopsis of your story to:
with the subject line: Submission to “Flow” by December 25, 2023.
A full draft of your story will be expected by January 25, 2024.
Along with a 30 to 40 words biography line.
If available, please include two to three accompanying images that you hold the rights to, in any resolution.
Guidelines:
- A Dance Mag welcomes short and long (600 to 4000 words) of creative nonfiction relevant to the theme, this may include research, personal, ekphrastic or lyrical essays, feature articles, reportage, experiential reviews, conversations, interviews, and travel writings.
- A Dance Mag privileges storytelling and experiential writing.
- The language of the publication is English (American style).
- A Dance Mag publishes original work. However, it may republish writings originally published in a language other than English.
- A Dance Mag retains exclusive publication rights for six months following the issue release. If republished elsewhere we appreciate mentioning that the piece was originally published in a Dance Mag.
- Submissions are free of charge, and given the independent nature of the magazine, contributions cannot be compensated. All sales revenue goes to the production of the next issue of the magazine. Selected contributors will receive a copy of the magazine upon publication.
- Selected submissions will receive notification within 45 days. The editorial board operates on a volunteer basis, so we apologize for not being able to answer all emails.
- Selected submissions may undergo a lengthy editing process that requires contributors’ engagement and timely responses.
- This call is not open for artwork and photography.
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