Afflicting the body and soul on Yom Kippur releases one from the shackles of the body and the material, and allows one to connect to the root of his soul.
Individual Atonement is Rooted in Communal Atonement
Atonement on Yom Kippur emanates from the brit (covenant) of love which God made with our forefathers. Fasting on Yom Kippur releases the soul from its material bondage and desires, revealing its true, good aspirations.
One who completes the Days of Awe as he should has certainly merited coming closer to the Almighty. And even if he was judged unfavorably above, this too is for the best, for it serves to rectify him and prepare him for life in the World to Come.