The culture underlying BDSM practices is frequently misunderstood. However, this can hide techniques that could be easily seen as forms of art.
In brief, BDSM is focused on the relationship between couples, exploring intimacy and sensuality while being open to trying new experiences. It goes beyond classifying participants as dominants and submissives. Shibari is one example of how BDSM, which stands for bondage and discipline, dominance and submission, sadism and masochism, may quickly enter an area of the arts.
With an impressive background, Shibari is a Japanese practice that dates back over 500 years. Of course, at first, this practice had nothing to do with sexuality, but rather with dominance over the prisoners. In the meantime, Shibari has evolved into a form of expression, of pleasure, and, essentially, a way to create an intense connection between partners.
What Is Shibari?
To put it simply, Shibari is the Japanese practice of tying a person with a rope. Besides, Shibari means "decoratively tie" in Japanese, and is derived from the terms "shi" (to tie) and "bari" (to decorate).
In other words, Shibari is an art form primarily for aesthetic purposes; it is about how the knots are made, how the rope is twisted around the body, and, ultimately, it is about the patterns formed by the rope when firmly attached to the body.
Of course, as mentioned earlier, Shibari evolved, catching people's attention over the years. It was not always about the beauty of specific knots. The discipline began as a martial art used to immobilize prisoners, far from any type of sensuality.
Intimacy, sensuality, and the bond between two partners - one who ties and the other who allows themself to be tied— are the sole aspects covered in Shibari today.
The ropes used in Shibari are typically 6–15 meters long and made of natural fibers like hemp or jute.
The History Behind The Practice
Shibari is a great example of how a practice can change over time. It has evolved from a practice associated with torture to one associated with sensuality. This practice has come a long way from its beginnings to its present state.
Still, how did it become a way of expressing sexuality, given that its original purpose was so far away from sensuality? First and foremost, it had plenty of time to change.
Shibaru was originally a type of Hojo-jutsu used as a form of torture to restrain male prisoners. It is now known to be a gentle practice, but it was once associated with pain and extremely tight ties.
The transition to a form of art and sexual expression occurred at the end of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th century. And, while this is not always the case, the focus has shifted from men's bodies to women's bodies in particular. Most practitioners prefer to make the ties on a woman's body to emphasize the natural forms and bring this art form eye-catching beauty.
There are currently many courses and classes dedicated to this art form. Essentially, Shibari is a Japanese art that can be learned, and there are real communities of people who practice it.
The Secrets Behind The Knots
Shibari practitioners apply a variety of knots, ranging from types dedicated to beginners to types that can only be mastered by advanced practitioners. In this article, we will focus on the most basic knots so that you can practice Shibari even if this is your first time hearing about it.
This technique is based on single- and double-column ties. Anyone who wishes to master Shibari must begin with these ties.
Single-Column Ties
The first thing you learn in Shibari is how to make a single-column tie. The column is the area you tie, which can be the leg, arm, or chest. Or you can even start with a chair.
To make such a tie, first, locate the center of the rope and then wrap the rope twice around the chosen column. It is critical that the rope is not too tight and that you can slip your finger under it.
Tuck the bight under all the ropes after crossing it over the working ends. With the working end, make a loop and pull the bight through.
Make another loop and bring the bight back through. Make sure the knot does not tighten on the column by pulling it. And that’s it. You just made your first single-column tie.
Double-Column Ties
A double-column tie, as the name implies, is a connection between two areas or columns. You can tie the arms together, an arm to a hip, a leg to a hip, or both legs together. There are numerous variations to try.
The technique is similar to that used in the case of a single-column tie, but it has been modified to incorporate two parts of the body. In contrast to the first knot we learned, the bight in this case not only passes above but also below. The rope goes between the two columns, across both sets of ropes, and back up.
Tips And Tricks For Beginners
Shibari techniques, like any other art form, require time and dedication to truly master them.
You won't become a professional overnight, but there's beauty in every small step toward perfection. Furthermore, the satisfaction of making the first knot and tying the first double column cannot be compared.
There are, however, many tips and tricks that can help you from your first encounter with this type of Japanese sensuality.
Consent Before Anything
Shibari is distinct from other BDSM practices because it's associated with permission rather than dominance. Before deciding to try Shibari with your partner, make sure you discuss it openly and get permission to try this art form on your partner's body.
Decide On a Safe Word
Beginnings are rarely smooth, and because Shibari involves the use of ropes and knots, it is suggested that you and your partner choose a safe word together. In this way, when things get too intense, your partner can quickly communicate that they are in discomfort.
Get Safety Scissors
For safety reasons, you'll also need scissors, which will be in handy if an unexpected situation arises and you need to quickly free your partner.
Start With Cotton Rope
It is advised to begin Shibari with cotton ropes. Unlike the traditional ropes used in this art, which are made of hemp or jute, this version is gentler on the body, easier to handle, and much more affordable. It is recommended that you only use hemp or jute ropes after you have mastered the fundamentals.
Take Small Steps
Don't complicate your life right away. Begin slowly and with simple knots and ties. Consider this activity a way to unwind, connect with your partner, and have fun. You are not competing with anyone, and if you want to learn more, it is recommended that you join a dedicated course.
However, after a few ties on the partner's body, you can begin using sex toys to intensify the moment and to feel rewarded.
Wrapping Up!
If you have an interest in it, everything is learnable, and Shibari, as an art form, should not be underestimated.
It is a practice that has undergone significant transformations over time, evolving from a form of torture to an expression of sensuality, sexuality, and interpersonal connection. The beauty of this practice has drawn entire communities to it and, once you read through this article, it becomes clear why.