4. Tactile Misperceptions: The World that Slips Through Fingers
Touch is our anchor to reality. Through touch, we engage with the world, discerning textures, temperatures, and contours.
However, AIWS can make this tactile world elusive. Surfaces might feel unnaturally smooth or rough. Objects might seem to squirm or pulse when held.
The underlying cause is the brain’s distorted tactile processing. The nerve endings that relay touch sensations to the brain send garbled signals. The brain, in turn, interprets these signals based on its distorted AIWS-afflicted state.
Everyday tasks become an adventure. Holding a cup, typing on a keyboard, or even just walking can feel different. The world, through the lens of touch, seems to be in a state of flux, constantly reshaping and redefining itself.
This continuous sensory re-adaptation can be mentally exhausting. Each interaction demands heightened focus, as one can’t rely on past tactile memories. Over time, this can lead to fatigue and a reluctance to engage in activities that demand intricate tactile interactions. (4)
