Extreme rituals in a BDSM context: the physiological and psychological effects of the 'Dance of Souls'.

Participation in extreme rituals (e.g., fire-walking, body-piercing) has been documented throughout history.

Hormonal changes and couple bonding in consensual sadomasochistic activity.

In two studies, 58 sadomasochistic (SM) practitioners provided physiological measures of salivary cortisol and testosterone (hormones associated with stress and dominance, respectively) and psychological measures of relationship closeness before and after participating in SM activities. Observed activities included bondage, sensory deprivation, a variety of painful and pleasurable stimulation, verbal and non-verbal communication, and expressions of caring and affection. During the scenes, cortisol rose significantly for participants who were bound, receiving stimulation, and following orders, but not for participants who were providing stimulation, orders, or structure.