I was still floating from an intense BDSM scene earlier today when I saw this quote from Claudia Varrin on the [sex] [death] [rebirth] site.
Few, if any, experiences can compare with the levels of sexual and emotional intensity evoked by the BDSM encounter…There are three states of altered consciousness, or three levels of ecstasy, that can be achieved while enacting BDSM rituals. These states are sensation, catharsis, and finally, insight. Each state can provide a forum for the positive loss of inhibitions. These ecstatic states can reward one with new insights, knowledge, and creativity, and refine and define the self. We open ourselves up to sensation, whether it be physical, as in the case of a beating, or emotional, as when we experience the inner thrill of exposing our most secret selves. Sensation leads to catharsis, which is a purification or purgation that causes spiritual renewal or a release of tension. Catharsis from a spiritual BDSM experience can leave one feeling cleansed and released from old issues. From this, one can come away from the experience with feelings of well-being and new vigor, new zest for life. Catharsis through BDSM experience is a release into a new purity and joyful satisfaction.
Claudia Varrin (Female Dominance: Rituals and Practices)
Personally I don’t think I’ve ever been gifted with deep insight after a scene. Maybe I’m doing it wrong. I normally just feel free spacey and happy. Plus, there’s a lot of shaking going on as the adrenalin dumps itself into my system. But sensation and catharsis are certainly huge components of any good scene. And I can’t argue with the opening line about the level of sexual and emotional intensity BDSM can invoke.