Lucas Stopper: Flow State and the Self (in class discussion 3)

 We talked last week about the concept of the “flow state,” and how the self can be emptied from the body, and all self-awareness flies out the window, especially in the context of repetitive actions. This reminded me of how I would feel when I used to compete in colorguard and competitive dance. After a certain amount of repetition of our number, I would be able to perform the show without thinking twice about it. However, in this context, I actually disagree with the notion that the self is emptied during this kind of flow state. I think performing actually encourages self-expression, and therefore, the self cannot entirely be emptied during a flow state. If anything, I think entering this kind of flow state may be one of the best ways to discover oneself. 


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