Sorry for being ignorant on this concept but I've never experienced or witnessed anything remotely like what you all are describing. For some reason I am finding this concept very interesting and this thread has been kicking around in my head for days.

Please correct me if my attempt grasp this concept if off base. From what I can gather from your posts a catharsis is an unbridled release of blocked emotions that yields profound relief. It kind of seems like your are describing a deep sense of pleasure derived from surrendering to intense pain or suffering. Only instead of being a physical experience it is an emotional one?? A person would engage in this activity because it leads to a refractory period of increased awareness and tranquility???