Crasses et Voluptés

Spirituality within BDSM is not a modern practice. Throughout history, many cultures and races have used forms of sadomasochism to gain insight into a higher state of consciousness: religious worshippers flog or crucify themselves, sleep on spikes, hang suspended by their flesh, or walk miles through scorching deserts with bare and bloodied feet.

I’ve been known to seek out similar experiences, although it has more to do with control than anything else. Masochists like me are characterised by our controlling natures. We control our relationships and gain what we seek from our pain giver. Modern medical research shows us that masochistic practices cause some big changes in human physiology, namely in levels of hormones, in brain waves, in attention and consciousness. For centuries mystics have used physical and sexual stress to boost endorphins and engender visionary experience. In some cases, a mystic’s ability to endure pain while in trance serves as proof of his or her spirituality.

yonk