What is Shibari? Is it a sexual technique or just a perversion? And is it safe? Shibari isn’t exactly mainstream, but records of it go deep into Japanese history. This erotic discipline based on tying the body with ropes, began in Japan and was inspired by accounts of Japanese girls being bound by warriors. Ropes wrapped around the model’s legs and back give the impression of being caught in a jump. With an emphasis on emotion and intimacy, the body is transformed into living art. Today, Shibari has become an intimate sport that strictly differentiates the roles played. Tying one’s counterpart has very clear rules and if they are broken, it can cause many injuries, both physical and psychological. What Shibari is and whether it is for everyone is a matter of training and a clear attitude towards sex. It is a communication between a dominant and a submissive actor in which these two opposing natures come to their peak.
Submissive – The Bound
One who is the subject of Shibari is like a model. Their bodies become a tool for shaping. They are subordinate to the dominant who binds them. In Shibari, are usually used hemp ropes for their rough surface to maximize the sensation of pleasure on contact with the skin. The object is shaped by ropes into a particular position chosen by the dominant one. Ropes encircle nearly the entire body and pull their arms and legs together or, conversely, apart.
The variations of the resulting sensations are countless, as are the positions that can be achieved on the object by tying it. The bound may find emotional and physical release from the feeling of defenselessness. The inability to move will help him or her to feel the orgasm more intensely. Ropes can help more demanding sex lovers maintain the ideal position for much longer than during normal sex.
Dominant – The Binder
There must be maximum trust between the bounds and the one who binds them. Whoever holds the rope takes responsibility for the whole situation. It is an almost ritualistic activity. The dominant determines not only the position but also the intensity of the tightening of the ropes and the atmosphere of the whole act. For such a position it is necessary to know the physiology of the human body as well as the work with knots and ropes.
Nowadays it is quite common to attend workshops on this topic. The dominant leads the whole process as they like, they can be even violent and spice up the whole act with light slaps or the use of BDSM toys if there is mutual consent. Communication and emphasis on a conversation between the two actors before the whole Shibari happens is important.
Shibari – Japanese Rope Bondage Today
Today, Shibari is widespread all over the world and is popular for its erotic touch. But not everyone knows that there is a long history behind it, and those who want to practice it have to train their knowledge of the human body and gain professional practice. But the results are fabulous. Shibari can bring experienced lovers to extraordinary orgasms and to an extraordinarily intimate bond with each other. The whole process and techniques of Shibari are a very sophisticated activity, which we will discuss in the next post.