Chapter 4, The Conditions of Flow; Chapter 5, The Body in Flow Summary and Analysis

One condition of flow is the way in which it occurs. Flow may be either spontaneous or structured. There will be times when an event that is completely unplanned brings tremendous joy. At other times, a well-planned event may exceed one's expectations to such a degree as to cause one to be ecstatic. While having an optimal experience is possible at any given moment, flow tends to occur more often in a structured atmosphere. In a structured atmosphere, it is easier to measure optimal experience through a planned activity. For example: if a person thoroughly enjoys dance, then the planned activity of a ballroom competition is almost certain to bring pleasure. There is expectation as well, but one almost experiences flow before the...