Re: MAPS: Prescription: Euphoria

[Richard Spurgeon <rspurgeon@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Whilst the use of the term ecstasy is not that appropriate for the
experiences facilitated by MDMA when used individually or therapeutically, I
would argue that it is most appropriate for the core experience of rapture
which lies at the heart of the Rave experience.

And to take this a step further using Dan's Methodist model, I would argue
that this ecstatic rapture experience, in which individuals step out of an
identification with their ego-self/personality and for a while can
experience living their Soul-self, is the reason that rave/dance culture is
presently spreading and growing at an extraordinary rate around the globe.
Many people are getting a taste of liberation and they like it.  The
challenge, as we on this Forum might see it, is to be able to take the fruit
of these experiences into daily life and grow from them.

I firmly believe that Rave/dance culture is one of the most powerful forces
for individual, social and cultural change and it is building fast into more
than just a sub-culture.  It is already dramatically influencing society and
culture here in the UK and as the most creative of this and the next
generation get involved this process will continue unabated.  It is the
first point of contact most people have with MDMA and other club drugs and
for many is a life-changing experience.

The question for me and others involved and inspired by the scene is how to
turn clubbers on to the idea of doing the work - the second stage of Dan's
model.  If any of you are interested in exploring this further contact me
off line.  You might be interested in checking out my website too -
www.raveistherapture.com which is a first attempt at giving the Rave
experience a deeper psychospiritual context.  All comments and feedback will
be gratefully received.

Richard Spurgeon (a raving psychotherapist)




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