As photographers, scientists, journalists/authors, will likely attest—time outdoors is preferable to the confines of an office. Natural movement replaces stagnant and ridged postures associated with sitting at a desk for long periods. Natural environments support flow states—whenever we take a risk or encounter something novel (which often occurs in wild places) the neurochemical dopamine is released increasing attention, information flow, and pattern recognition in the brain¹. Alas, there comes a time when data gathered in the field must be processed—photographers need to upload and sort their images, scientists must prepare papers on their research, and journalists must preserve their experiences in writing. Thus, we return to our desks!
But, what if there were a way to apply the biomechanical and neurochemical benefits of a wild place to our workspace?
In his book the ‘Rise of Superman’, Steven Kotler describes a ‘rich environment’ as a combination platter of novelty, unpredictability, and complexity— three elements that catch and hold our attention much like risk. A complex environment (like a mountain or forest) naturally heightens the senses—engaging our attention through multiple channels (i.e. nerve endings in your hands and feet, proprioception and vestibule awareness). This ‘deep embodiment’ or full-body awareness is an external trigger for flow. On the other hand, workspaces tend to be confined, uniform environments governed by office etiquette—offering little stimulation, and limited expanse for movement.
Here’s how to create a rich environment at work…
Wild places naturally encourage constant movement and force the body to adapt to changing terrain. We can mimic this by adding elements of complexity, like balance and co-ordination through movement. Treadmill desks are quite popular in modern workspaces but if you simply don’t have the room for one or your boss prefers a more traditional aesthetic, why not try a Deskcycle.
This exercise tool is compact enough to fit under most desks (modest depth and height under a desk is required for good range of motion) and crafted with quality materials to provide a smooth and sturdy ride. The design is maintenance free (with sealed bearings there is no need for lubricants) and unobtrusive to any aesthetic (easy to keep out of sight). The Deskcycle uses a touch free magnetic system (no EMF, for those concerned) that produces near-silent pedal strokes (great for covert cycling), and eight tension settings (accommodating ‘challenge/skill ratio’). Portability is a big plus, you can go from indoor to outdoor cycling, wok to home in seconds (new sensory inputs from a change of scene).
Perhaps you use a standing work station? Whilst balance is recruited adding an element of complexity, the stagnation from standing still leads to a lack of mobility and ultimately flow. Try realigning your spine, and raising body awareness using Foundation Training. Through a series of postures, poses, and movements, Foundation Training activates your posterior muscle chain, shifting the burden of support from your joints to your muscles (aligning our natural biomechanics).
The core exercises or ‘Founder’ moves can be viewed on the website, take moments to do (ideal for work break intervals) and little space to perform. Our neurological network is fired-up applying awareness to action thereby predisposing us to a flow state. Their maxim, ‘Make Movement your Medicine’, aptly reflects the principles behind Foundation Training which restores natural posture/mobility, relieves pain, and engages the brain—when your body starts to get more of what it needs and wants, your brain responds as well.
References/Resources
¹The Rise of Superman, Steven Kotler, Quercus, 2014.
Explore the science of Flow: www.riseofsuperman.com
Determine your Flow Profile: www.flowgenomeproject.co/flowprofile
Try a Deskcycle: http://www.deskcycle.com. Available in Australia from: http://www.magnetrainer.com.au
Learn the Foundation exercises: http://www.foundationtraining.com/back-pain-exercises-videos-and-blog/
