Mortification refers to the process of experiencing intense feelings of shame or embarrassment, often due to a social blunder or personal failure. It can lead to a strong desire to withdraw from social situations or to avoid similar experiences in the future. This emotional response is common in various contexts, including everyday interactions and public speaking. In a different context, mortification can also refer to a spiritual practice in some religious traditions, where individuals intentionally deny their physical desires to achieve greater self-discipline or closeness to the divine. This practice is often associated with figures like Saint Francis of Assisi and is seen in various forms across different faiths.