# The psychological mechanism of religion and physical asceticism Some religious groups may associate physical pain with spiritual ascension through the following psychological mechanisms： ## Common psychological strategies ***Framework reconstruction**: Interpret pain as "purification" or "test" and give ascetic practice a positive meaning ***Collective verification**: Strengthen the value of ascetic practice through group rituals and testimony ***Gradual participation**: Starting from minor discomfort, gradually increase the intensity of ascetic practice ***Cognitive dissonance reduction**: Members rationalize themselves after experiencing pain to prove their value ***Isolation from the outside world**: Restrict external information and strengthen internal worldview Such practices may lead to dangerous consequences, including physical and mental injury, decreased ability to think rationally, and rejection of normal medical treatment. Most mainstream religious traditions do not encourage extreme ascetic practice, but emphasize balanced and rational practice of faith. It is important to distinguish between symbolic restraint in religion and extreme behaviors that may cause harm, and to maintain critical thinking and personal boundaries.