from every one I have learned not only about the physical modification but the mental and spiritual changes I experienced

I'd be very interested to hear more about these epiphanies. In buddhism, suffering, its causes and its avoidance are the central tenet of the so called 4 noble truths. There is great effort in attempting to decorelate pain (as the most pressing and intense cause to suffering) from suffering itself and self-inflicted pain is often part of the regimen of those who seek spiritual enlightenment.