Vomiting, known medically as emesis. The vomiting act has two phases. In the retching phase, the abdominal muscles undergo a few rounds of co-ordinated contractions with the diphragm and the muscles used in respiratory inspiration. In the next phase, the expulsive phase, intense pressure is formed in the stomach, brought about by enormous shifts in both the diaphragm and the abdomen. These shifts are, in essence rigorous contractions of these muscles that last for extended periods of time. The pressure is then suddenly released when the upper esophageal sphincter relaxes resulting in the expulsion of gastric contents. The relief of pressure and the release of endorphins into the bloodstream after the expulsion causes the vomiter to feel better.
'Ritual recognises the potency of disorder.'
-Mary Douglas in Purity & Danger
'It is almost as if, before being internally absorbed by the individual, food was by cooking, collectively predigested. One cannot share the food prepared by people without sharing in their nature.'
-Mary Douglas
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