Sacred Kink: An Overview on The Intersection of BDSM and Spiritual Transformation

by LaRue Swann

March 28, 2025

BDSM is often discussed in terms of power, pleasure, and consent, but for many practitioners, it is also a path to spiritual transformation. An intriguing study by Alexzandria C. Baker explores how BDSM can serve as a deeply meaningful, transcendental experience, challenging mainstream perceptions that often frame kink as purely physical or psychological.

The study delves into the ways BDSM participants experience spiritual awakening, altered states of consciousness, and personal transformation during scenes. Using a phenomenological research approach, Baker interviewed individuals who reported mystical or spiritual experiences while engaging in BDSM. The findings identified seven key psychological elements present in these encounters: ordeal, surrender, visionary experience, energetic force, spiritual presence transcended consciousness, and lasting transformation. These elements mirror themes found in religious rituals, meditation, and rites of passage, suggesting that BDSM can serve as a modern spiritual practice.

For many, the act of surrender in BDSM mirrors spiritual devotion—letting go of control to access deeper emotional and mystical states. Others describe visionary experiences, feeling an external divine presence, or tapping into an energetic force beyond themselves. The study also highlights the well-known “subspace” and “topspace” states, which many participants liken to trance or meditative states, further reinforcing BDSM’s connection to spiritual practices.

This research is significant because it challenges the pathologization of BDSM and repositions it as a valid and empowering experience, much like religious or mindfulness practices. It also encourages mental health professionals to recognize BDSM’s potential for self-exploration, healing, and transformation rather than viewing it through a lens of dysfunction.

Ultimately, Sacred Kink affirms that BDSM is more than just play—it can be a sacred, profound journey toward self-discovery, connection, and transcendence.

Baker, A. C. (2018). Sacred kink: Finding psychological meaning at the intersection of BDSM and spiritual experience. Sexual and Relationship Therapy, 33(4), 440-453. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/14681994.2016.1205185