As you might imagine, the folks drawn to suspension are often looking for something. What? Well, that’s tough to say because everyone is different. For the most part I would say that they are seeking an experience. Yes, there is the shock, wonder and awe aspect. People see suspension, think it’s impossible and want to try it. Crazy? Well, no crazier than jumping out of an airplane or trying to do a double back flip on a motorcycle. (I’ve been watching Nitro Circus, but that’s another blog all together) Well maybe these aren’t the greatest examples, but there is one thing they all have in common. Try to push yourself to the next level. Chris Glunt‘s six-hour suspension is a fine example.
First, let me put this time into perspective. There have been many stories of Sufis performing suspensions that have lasted days, weeks and possibly more than a month. However, these tall tales have no documentation and who knows how accurate they may be. Now from a western standpoint, presently the longest well documented suspension was done by Matt Zane in January of 2008. He did a 6 hour 4 hook vertical back (suicide) suspension. Impressive to say the least, and considered by many to be a world record.
Now lets compare Chris’s suspension. Believe it or not, his goal was not to tie, or even break the record. Although he did, his real goal was to attain a new experience. Prior to hanging he did a week long fast and then deprived himself of sleep for a night. Chris did fall asleep for 45 minutes 3 hours before suspending and really I’m not sure what effect that may have had on his whole experience.
I know one of his goals was to pass out, sleep or possibly leave his normal mental state. Did he accomplish it? By his own account, no. However, I feel that he is still processing the whole experience. As someone that has done both fasting and sleep deprivation experiments, I can honestly say that it takes a bit of time to put it all in perspective. The experiences are exhausting and draining by themselves. Combine a 6+-hour suspension in with that and the mental, physical, emotional and spiritual change can and will take some time to fully comprehend.
Chris, you may not have gotten what you wanted or expected from this quest, but I promise you, you will get something valuable. If nothing else you have earned my respect on a whole new level and I truly admire what you’ve accomplished. I’ve been very fortunate to have met some pretty incredible people in my life. My friend I can honestly you are most definitely at the top of the list as one of the hardest mother fuckers I’ve ever met.
Kudos to You Brother!
