Ritual and ordeal are closely related, but not everyone knows how to process the two, either together or separately. Even the most experienced ritualist may need tips and advice following the path of ordeal. Fortunately, award-winning author Lee Harrington offers us a helpful guide in Sacred Kink: The Eightfold Paths Of BDSM And Beyond. “This book dives into the ways that erotic explorers are tapping into altered states of consciousness, and how to do so with a wide variety of approaches. From negotiation to aftercare, top trances to ordeals, sex magic to pain processing, erotic shapeshifting to the spiritual calling of Mastery and Slavery… there is a bit of something for everyone.”
In her review of the book, relationship expert Dr. Ruth Neustifter tells us, “Sexuality and spirituality are often treated as opposing concepts, but Lee Harrington makes it clear that the sacred and the profane are not so far removed from one another. Sexual and religious exploration can take place at the same time, often using the same tools and methods, with powerful results. Sacred Kink is a sex-positive (and quite sexy) study of the search for meaning, self and identity through BDSM. Harrington calls upon an amazing scope of religious study, weaving aspects of Buddhism, paganism, and dozens of other faiths through his depictions of sexual play. He deconstructs the power behind the rituals of yoga, sexual relationship dichotomies (e.g., Master/slave) and role-playing, monkish asceticism, body piercing, ecstatic dance, and so many other concepts. This book is densely packed with information, so reading it is a slow but rewarding process.” Read the rest of her review.
Lee’s other books include Shed Skins: Journeying in Self-Portraits, Shibari You Can Use: Japanese Rope Bondage and Erotic Macramé, More Shibari You Can Use: Passionate Rope Bondage and Intimate Connection, and Playing Well With Others: Your Field Guide to Discovering, Exploring and Navigating the Kink, Leather and BDSM Communities.
Learn more about Lee Harrington.
Lee Harrington passes on the message: ” I am not an OTO member but have been to rituals. I appreciate the beauty of those rituals and have found the Work that is done powerful. The OTO is mentioned only once, but ceremonial magic is referenced a few times.
I find myself confused though as to why it was crossposted. I found it lovely, but know that not all OTO members would find my project to be a good fit to their path and working. I respect that and would hate to be seen as anything than someone offering information to those who are called to it.”
Phnmoeenal breakdown of the topic, you should write for me too!