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Forgetting ourselves in flow: an active inference account of flow states and how we experience ourselves within them

Psychology

Forgetting ourselves in flow: an active inference account of flow states and how we experience ourselves within them

D. Parvizi-wayne, L. Sandved-smith, et al.

Discover the intriguing mechanics of flow states, where optimal performance meets a sense of self-loss, as explored by Darius Parvizi-Wayne, Lars Sandved-Smith, Riddhi J. Pitliya, Jakub Limanowski, Miles R. A. Tufft, and Karl J. Friston. This study unveils how high-precision sensory expectations and bodily awareness intertwine to enhance experiences of well-being and expertise.

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Playback language: English
Abstract
This paper explores the phenomenon of flow states, characterized by optimal performance and a perceived loss of self-awareness, using the active inference framework. The authors propose that flow's phenomenology stems from high-precision weighting over expected sensory consequences of actions and beliefs about action sequences. This mechanism minimizes free energy through exploiting pragmatic affordances. The challenging dynamics of flow-inducing situations necessitate focused attention and restrict counterfactual planning, leading to a loss of self-as-object but not entirely eliminating self-awareness, which remains pre-reflective and bodily. The model is applicable to other agentive experiences, offering insights into selfless experiences, embodied expertise, and well-being.
Publisher
Frontiers in Psychology
Published On
Oct 26, 2024
Authors
Darius Parvizi-Wayne, Lars Sandved-Smith, Riddhi J. Pitliya, Jakub Limanowski, Miles R. A. Tufft, Karl J. Friston
Tags
flow states
self-awareness
active inference
free energy
embodied expertise
well-being
sensory consequences
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