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Flow and the Phenomenological Experience of a Pilgrimage - Case Study on the Way of Saint James

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Resumo:The present study constitutes what the author believes to be the first experimental approach into investigating and understanding the phenomenology of pilgrimages through the lens of Flow theory. This research also marks the author’s initial endeavour to delve into the phenomenology of pilgrimages and the theory of Flow, as such, it adopts an exploratory approach that inherently encompasses a broader spectrum of research rather than a focused investigation with a narrow scope.Driven by the hypothesis that the physical and mental challenges, combined with the natural environment and potential for spiritual engagement, create a setting conducive to the emergence of Flow states during pilgrimages, our aim was to uncover the key characteristics of Flow states experienced by pilgrims and their contribution on short to medium-term pilgrimage outcomes.Employing a dualistic mixed-method approach, the study integrates quantitative data collection with in-depth qualitative analysis of two case studies to shed light on pilgrimage phenomenology through the lens of flow.Empirical findings support the notion that pilgrimages foster Flow experiences, elevating the overall pilgrimage experience to an optimal level for pilgrims, irrespective of their initial motivations. Furthermore, our research reveals no significant differences in Flow state intensity across various demographic and experiential factors, indicating the robustness and generalizability of our findings. Pilgrimages appear to evoke introspection, mental relaxation, and daydreaming along the journey, while also nurturing self-confidence, self-esteem, cognitive flexibility, and readiness for change among participants. These outcomes seem to contribute to an enhanced quality of life and overall well-being for pilgrims.Conducted within an academic framework, the study was naturally subject to the inherent constraints and limitations of such an environment. As such, future studies could explore more intricate longitudinal study designs, incorporating stratified samples and spanning extended pilgrimage routes, while refining the focus of objectives. Opportunities for future research could include comparative studies to explore Flow experiences and their outcomes across different types of pilgrimages or utilizing pilgrimages as a platform for experimental investigations into the neural correlates of Flow states within authentic and ecologically valid settings.
Autores principais:Ferreira, Ricardo Jorge Moreira
Assunto:Flow State Pilgrimage Way of Saint James Optimal Experience Estado de Flow Peregrinação Caminho de Santiago Experiência ótima
Ano:2024
País:Portugal
Tipo de documento:dissertação de mestrado
Tipo de acesso:acesso embargado
Instituição associada:Universidade de Coimbra
Idioma:inglês
Origem:Estudo Geral - Universidade de Coimbra

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