All Tied Up: Japanese Bondage for Dummies | Aldult Toys Blog

Have you ever dreamed of being tied up? Or even being the person who ties an exquisite rope around your lover’s body? If so, you’re not alone. There are many sensual reasons to want to try this delicious method of play. Let’s explore Japanese rope bondage, better known as Shibari.

Before we get started, let me remind you that all forms of BDSM/Kink must always be followed by strict ethical codes of safe, sane, and consensual consciousness. With that being said, let’s talk about Shibari. Shibari originated from Hojo-jutsu, a method of restraining captives before evolving into the erotic bondage known as Kinbaku (Kinbaku-bi literally translates to “the beauty of tight binding”) in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

The beauty and sensuality of this magnificent form of play allows both the rope artist and the model to transcend themselves in a magnificent surrender. On many occasions, Shibari has been described as a shared meditative practice, allowing for deep relaxation of mind and body, as well as an expression of power exchange and intimate erotic restraint. But perhaps more important than the sexual aspect of the act is the aesthetics of it, which are of immense importance to the rope artist.

Rope bondage provides the artist with paint and a brush in the form of rope, and a canvas in the form of a model. The way they choose to arrange the ropes and knots can be compared to the act of painting or sculpting itself; the artist’s creative decisions emphasize the characteristics of their subject such as fortitude and passion. The rope is then wrapped and knotted around the naked body, exquisitely creating shapes and patterns that adorn and tighten the skin. It is an erotic dance between the rope artist and the model that requires time and patience. The rope is applied in complex positions on the body, the interaction between the material and the immaterial, the communication established between the two participants through Shibari. The placement of the knots in the appropriate places can stimulate pressure points on the body, similar to a Japanese massage called Shiatsu.

Shibari Rigging, a more advanced method, induces physiological conditions called “subspace.”

What is Subspace? Subspace is a state of mind that refers to a blissful, otherworldly place where passives can go during intense play. Subspace, also known as “flying” or “floating,” is usually a combination of endorphins and adrenaline that, in the right mix, can have an almost drug-like effect.

The practice of Shibari addresses topics such as human identity, confidence, physicality, and behavior; it sometimes channels sexual energy as a result. I highly recommend finding an experienced performer if you choose to pursue this beautiful art form; never play with an inexperienced performer. Other options include taking a class at your local adult sex shop, purchasing how-to books, and practicing on mannequins before practicing on a live person.