Post Reports Is finding "flow" the key to happiness?
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Dec 30, 2025 Maggie Penman, a reporter for The Washington Post's Optimist section, chats with Susan Bauer, founder of Old Ladies Against Underwater Garbage. They delve into the joy of cleaning ponds and how this unique activism fosters a sense of flow. They discuss the thrill of treasure hunting underwater and the importance of safety during their dives. The conversation connects Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi's concept of flow to happiness, revealing how anyone can discover joy in everyday activities, even in the most unexpected places.
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From Landmark Trash To Community Cleanup
- Susan Bauer started diving for underwater trash after using garbage as landmarks while swimming in ponds.
- Her solo cleanup habit grew into a community effort that led to forming OLOG (Old Ladies Against Underwater Garbage).
Flow Explains Dive Joy
- The women experience 'flow' while diving — full immersion and present-moment focus.
- Flow explains why the activity reduces worries and increases happiness for participants.
Rapid Growth And Organized Dives
- OLOG expanded from five women to dozens after a rapid recruitment in 2023.
- The group now runs organized dives with roles like beach boss, dive leader, kayakers, and safety checks.