I decided to focus my research around the benefits of participating in BDSM from an emotional and mental state of well being, what the psychological effects are, and how to get the most out of BDSM to promote a healthy mindset.
The first article examines kinks and fetishes, how they impact the mind and what the benefits are of engaging in these practices. Looking at the intense concentration involved, people engaging in kink activities reported having lower stress levels afterward, and compared the experience to state-of-flow practices that promote healthy mindfulness. The mental focus combined with increased levels of cortisol and testosterone while engaging in an activity make BDSM practices a very healthy activity by combining the meditative concentration of mindfulness with the positive physical effects of physical and sexual exercise.
https://time.com/4511726/bdsm-sex-flow-state-mindfulness/
The second article goes a little deeper into describing what is happening from the perspective of each role, Dominant and submissive, Top and bottom. It explains the appeal of a Dominant mindset, what it brings in clarity of mind and how to ensure it can be practiced safely and consensually. Top space is described as an intense focus and concentration, focused on assessing the safety and overall needs of the other, the length of time and intensity of scene can make a tunnel like experience of focus and control.
Sub space is explained from the euphoric feeling and out of body experience one gains, as a result of physical exertion and mental focus, within a safe place free of inhibition. There is more in depth detail concerning chemicals released like epinephrine, endorphins, enkephalins and how they contribute to the altered state of mind. The best explanation i saw to date of subspace came from this description which includes that those chemicals are part of the natural flight or fight response, and the changes in verbal communication as well as physical tolerance for pain provide explanation for how the mind fights those natural urges to create this altered state.
BDSM Subspace Explained By Someone Who Has Personally Experienced It
The last article is one i feel i have focused on in my own writing for quite some time now, having the ability to prioritize BDSM practices as part of a proper self care routine. It gives 4 examples of ways to ensure you prioritize your BDSM needs, finding type to easily switch between vanilla and BDSM headspaces. Daily rituals, kinky tasks, planning future knky experiences, and establishing protocols are how the article suggests ensuring you have a little kink in your day. I couldn’t agree more, it’s about having a routine and discipline to maintain that headspace.
https://lovingbdsm.kaylalords.com/2018/10/24/kinky-mindset/