Reflections of Rubber: May 21, 2013

 

05-21-13 Journal Entry

I spent 20 of the last 72 hours encased in rubber layers. The Hydroglove dry suits are incredible. Using the three suits I have it is quite easy to achieve a totally sealed condition. During my sessions nothing leaked from the suits. This was despite profuse sweating and two pees during each session. When I added the Hydroglove stocking-foot waders over the outer layer and set up a breathing system to draw air from the inside of the waders I had about as close to a sealed system as possible.

I have made other entries on the experience of total rubber surrender and isolation encased in these wonderful layers of stretchy latex. The experience is so multi-dimensional. What senses are impacted? – all of them. Hearing from the outside and vision is reduced to almost nothing. Touch is reduced from the outside but is enhanced from the inside. The skin has 100 percent contact and reception from the smooth rubber. Each move brings a new sensation of massage as the rubber wraps around me and caresses all of me. Smelling the heavy rubber scented air drawn from the breathing system and tasting the raw rubbery flavors of mask and drinking tube replace the loss of outer hearing while bringing new awareness of the sounds internal. The heavy breathing and whistle of each breath through the gas mask reaches new levels of awareness. Heightened consciousness of the internal being builds as the rubber insulates from the outside and reflects the inner energy unto itself.

Last night I didn’t sleep at all. But I climbed out of my encasement refreshed and rested. As I laid on my bed in the darkness and listened to the sounds of my breathing I felt all manner of worries strip away. A new clarity of mind focused my thoughts not only to the rubber but beyond to major events in my life. I spent time in bad and time at the computer. The three hours in bed were pure bliss. The computer time was always interesting and sometimes provocative.

I made recordings of part of the session and diligently created pictures to post. I thought about my long journey to this point in my life. I understood the way rubber has affected my life since I was a boy, always there, always beckoning, always ready to comfort me. I saw how each twist and turn might have closed doors but it seemed a window always opened.

I love the time I spend in the solitude of rubber. It is one way to leave this world with its responsibilities and obligation behind for just a short while. It is as addictive as a drug. I’m glad I learned its secrets.