2024-11-03

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What is BDSM?

BDSM is a multifaceted aspect of human relationships that revolves around the exchange of power, built upon the foundational principles of Safety, Sanity, and Consent (often referred to as SSC). It’s also a psychosocial subculture that engages in these dynamics through role-playing or as a lifestyle.

The SSC framework is the ethical cornerstone of BDSM practice. The distinction between BDSM and socially aggressive or criminal behaviors is primarily defined by the strict adherence to the SSC guidelines by all participants involved:

Safety (Safe): All BDSM activities must not harm the health or reputation of any individual. Moreover, the inherent risk of physical and sometimes psychological injuries must be minimized.
Sanity (Sane): All actions within BDSM must be performed by individuals in a sound mind. This rule entails a sober evaluation of one’s actions. Even if a partner requests a specific action, the practitioner must refuse if they deem it unsafe. It’s essential that participants are not under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Consent (Consensual): All actions within BDSM should occur voluntarily and with the full agreement of all parties involved, typically established beforehand. At any moment, a partner can signal a stop using a previously agreed-upon safe word, gesture, or movement, indicating an immediate cessation of all BDSM activities.

BDSM relationships are not defined by the mere acts performed but are rooted in deep personal emotions and mutual respect, trust, and sometimes love. The American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (1992) clarifies that the choice of relationship forms and roles must be consensual. Participants must establish clear emotional and physical boundaries, making BDSM a voluntary role-play unlike any scenario where one partner cannot choose or is compelled to play a role.

The Components of BDSM: Bondage, Discipline, Domination, Submission, Sadism, and Masochism

The term BDSM encompasses three main components:

BD (Bondage & Discipline): Involves the act of binding or restraining (bondage) and the rules of behavior and punishment associated with it.
DS (Domination & Submission): Refers to relationships characterized by a power imbalance, which may be session-based or lifestyle-oriented.
SM (Sadism & Masochism): Involves the enjoyment derived from inflicting or experiencing physical pain.

It’s crucial to note that the English term BDSM encompasses a broader range of practices than the Russian notion of “sadomasochism.” The BDSM community is generally tolerant and often brings together individuals attracted to various aspects of these dynamics.

The complexity of BDSM relationships is challenging to encapsulate in a few words, given their individualized nature. No two pairs or situations are alike, making the description of this phenomenon overly simplistic if reduced to mere terms.

Tops, Bottoms, and Switches

In BDSM practices, participants are categorized into tops (the dominant partner) and bottoms (the submissive partner), as well as switches, who enjoy both roles. Non-BDSM relationships are often termed “vanilla” in this community.

The Variety of BDSM Practices

It’s improbable that a single individual would be drawn to the entire spectrum of BDSM practices. Some may be perceived as mild (like wax play), while others could be extreme and rare. The psychological or aesthetic acceptance of any practice is highly individual.

Examples of various BDSM practices include:

Pet Play: Where the submissive partner takes on the role of an animal.
Age Play: Role-playing as an older or younger figure in a disciplinary scene.
Sensory Deprivation: Limiting or eliminating the submissive’s ability to sense touch, sound, sight, taste, or smell.
Bondage: Restraining movement through tying, binding, or caging.
Wax Play: Dripping melted wax onto the skin of the submissive partner.

This is just a glimpse into the diverse practices within the BDSM community. The experiences and preferences vary widely, making each relationship and scene uniquely tailored to the individuals involved.

The Benefits of a Male Chastity Belt

A chastity belt is more than just a playful accessory; it offers real advantages for men who choose to wear one. Given the personal nature of this topic, many who are interested fear ridicule and embarrassment, leaving their questions unanswered. A quick glance at forums shows that when someone dares to inquire about chastity belts, they often face unkind comments (weirdo, pervert, sicko, etc.). It’s a personal choice in life, like any other, and it should be discussed sensibly. For those willing to embrace the lock of love, here are seven benefits of wearing such an accessory.

Reduced Time Wasted on Masturbation: A chastity belt prevents a man from spending time on self-pleasure. In a relationship, his sexual energy should be directed toward you. There’s no need for him to touch himself and think of other women.
Improved Sexual Life: His desire to please you will increase, as he will have to earn his long-awaited release. Expect to experience more orgasms per week than ever before.
Stronger Relationship Bonds: A chastity belt encourages open and honest communication about each other’s needs. This can enhance the natural connection between any couple.
Enhanced Orgasms: Although he might regularly engage in masturbation, wearing a chastity belt can decrease sensitivity. Once he returns to a more typical ejaculation schedule, his penis will become more sensitive, leading to stronger orgasms.
Elimination of Infidelity Concerns: Let’s face it—most men, no matter how deeply they love their partners, struggle to resist the allure of attractive women. A male chastity belt removes the opportunity for him to act on those impulses, helping him remain faithful.
Revitalized Romance: When he knows he can have sex with you whenever he wants, he may take you for granted. This is often why romance fades after many years of marriage. By restricting his access to you, you teach him to be the romantic lover he was when you first started dating.
Increased Household Helpfulness: Knowing that the only way to earn release is to please you will make him more inclined to help out around the house.

These are just seven reasons to consider a male chastity belt. Many couples find it to be an ideal solution for relationship issues and boredom in the bedroom.

Exploring the Functionality of Stocks in BDSM

Stocks are rigid wooden or metal devices designed to restrain limbs, and sometimes the neck. Historically, they were used to immobilize criminals during punishments and served as a standalone form of public humiliation when individuals were displayed in stocks. In the BDSM context, stocks serve a bondage purpose, allowing the dominant partner to restrict the submissive’s movements during S&M activities or sexual encounters. They are simple and reliable devices that do not require advanced skills to use (unlike ropes) and provide a more rigid restraint compared to shackles. A significant drawback of stocks is their fixed hole sizes, but this issue can easily be remedied today with elastic, porous rubber inserts that prevent chafing with larger holes or constriction with smaller ones.

Wooden Stocks: There are various designs of wooden stocks, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Separate stocks for hands (which usually include a neck hole) or feet are compact and user-friendly. Combined stocks that restrain both hands and feet are larger, stationary BDSM furniture that often has a fetishistic appeal. Sometimes, these stocks consist of three plates with a neck hole as well; this can make the submissive’s position uncomfortable. A specific type known as the “woman’s fiddle” differs from traditional stocks as it restrains the arms in front of the head rather than beside it. Visually, this device resembles a fiddle and is typically lightweight (historically made from simple twigs).

Metal Stocks: Modern stocks are often made from metal. They can be solid—constructed from steel strips on hinges that mimic the shape of traditional wooden stocks—or they can be detachable. In this case, the set includes braces with rings at the ends and clamps that are placed on the limbs and neck. These clamps typically consist of two parts that close after being connected with a carabiner, screw, latch, or lock. A set of several such braces and five clamps allows for various positioning of the submissive, especially with additional rings or holes in the braces. The braces do not necessarily need to be of different lengths; they can be modular. Length can be adjusted with a threaded bolt secured with wingnuts or a turnbuckle. There are also completely rigid, cross-shaped metal stocks available.

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Clamps in BDSM Practice: Pleasure and Pain Combined

Clamps are a practice in BDSM where the dominant partner pinches the skin fold of the submissive partner using specialized devices, usually clothespins. Clothespins are very popular and easy to use, even for beginners. The nature of the pain is as follows: right after the clamp is applied, the pain is sharp; after 15-60 seconds, it dulls and turns into a throbbing sensation; immediately after removal, the pain intensifies sharply, and the affected area may ache for a while longer.

Why use clamps?
The first option is for DS sessions: clamps on the nipples and genitalia are typically used to create dual sensations—both pain and pleasure. To achieve this, the submissive is sexually aroused first, then the clamps are applied. Light clamps that are not overly painful are sufficient for this.

The second option is for SM sessions: the goal is simply to inflict pain without any “vanilla” aspects. In this case, heavier clamps are usually chosen, and they can be placed not only on the nipples and labia but anywhere else on the body where a skin fold can be pinched. Interestingly, fingers can also be clamped (usually the fingers of the hands).

Safety Measures:

Overall, clamps are a safe practice, but it’s wise to consider the following points:

Apply and remove clamps with dry hands. The submissive’s skin should also be dry; otherwise, the clamp may slip off embarrassingly.
Avoid pinching too small a piece of skin with the clamp; otherwise, it may quickly and painfully come off.
Do not forget about the clamps you have placed on the submissive; they cause constant pain, so keep that in mind.
Advice for the submissive: if you call a safe word, immediately indicate which clamp should be removed (or if all should be removed). Once the pain subsides, the session can continue.
Do not leave any clamps, whether heavy or light, on for more than one hour.
Test new clamps with unknown stiffness on yourself first before applying them to the submissive.

Choosing Clamps: Popular Types

Medium-Strength Clothespins
If you lack the funds and time to select specialized devices, ordinary clothespins can be used. The main difference between standard clothespins and specialized ones is the absence of a regulation mechanism; however, they can vary widely in stiffness. To choose the right one, consider which body part of the submissive you plan to attach it to and what effect you aim to achieve. If you want to inflict light pain bordering on eroticism, use a clothespin with a rubberized and slightly serrated working area, or a well-worn wooden clothespin (these can work well for nipples and genitals). If your goal is to inflict significant pain, a tight clothespin with a plastic and serrated working area or a new wooden clothespin (which can be used on nearly any part of the body except the nipples and genitals) will do.

If you and your partner are into clamps, consider building a small collection of various textured and stiff clamps. You can do this by visiting a hardware store and purchasing a few ready-made sets, which are fortunately very budget-friendly.

Hair Clamps
Plastic hair clips and hairdresser clamps are recommended; they are very convenient for clamping the nipples.
Curtain Clips
Metal “crocodile clips” can be purchased from a hardware store. These can be very painful and often leave bruises. However, you can usually find “crocodiles” with lighter pressure or use new ones. The pain can be sharp with interesting notes.
Handmade Clamps
With a little creativity and willingness, you can make clamps yourself. Unlike homemade devices for electrical stimulation, homemade clamps are safe (it takes effort to actually harm someone) and allow for creativity. For instance, a DIY clamp for nipples in a Japanese style can be made using two wooden sticks from a sushi set and two small rubber bands. Secure them as shown in an illustration, and you’ll get a similar effect to that of a professional adjustable clamp.
Adjustable Clamps with Screws
Adjustable clamps from fetish shops have a screw mechanism to regulate the compression level. The contact area with the skin is often rubberized but can also be metallic. These clamps are suitable for submissives with varying skin sensitivities—both high and low—making them the most comfortable and universal choice. They are sold only in specialized shops (fetish and adult shops) and can be used on any part of the submissive’s body (most often applied to the nipples and genital area). The key advantage of adjustable clamps over others is the ability to precisely “tune” the pressure, creating not just painfully intense sensations but also excitingly erotic feelings. Many submissives report that physical pain diminishes their arousal and sexual desire altogether—such adjustable clamps are primarily recommended for them, as they help feel the line between pleasure and pain. They can also be beneficial for masochists.

These are available in various configurations: with chains, weights, and even small dumbbells, depending on your preference. When selecting adjustable clamps, the most important thing is to check the strength of the screw and threads. Rotate the screw back and forth to ensure that the thread is stable and not stripped. The compression regulation mechanism should be stable; otherwise, it’s not worth spending money when regular clothespins will suffice.

Clover Clamps from Fetish Shops
These clamps, named after the Japanese manufacturing corporation, are colloquially referred to as “clover clamps.” They lack the screw-regulator mechanism; instead, the compression strength is controlled by pulling on a chain (as illustrated). Therefore, the more you pull, the tighter they grip. The sensations from a clover clamp are generally perceived as harsher than those from an adjustable one, even if the chain isn’t touched.

Clover clamps look particularly nice on female nipples, but since they are quite painful, they are recommended for women with less sensitive breasts. There’s a simple test: if gentle caressing and licking of the breasts during normal sex doesn’t impress you much, then squeezing and twisting might—this indicates you have less sensitive breasts and may enjoy clover clamps. Like adjustable clamps, these are sold in specialized stores. Without a chain, they are useless, so ensure that the chain is included in the package. Also, check the stability of the mechanism.

Weights for Clamps
Specialized clamps from sex shops can be used with additional weights—light weights sold there (ranging from 50 to 500 grams). Typically, clamps with weights are used on nipples, female labia, and the male scrotum, aiming to provide the submissive with more intense (or painful) sensations. Weights can be attached using hooks, carabiners, or metal rings (the last two options are the most optimal). Note: when attaching weights to clamps, ensure the submissive is securely restrained and limited in movement; otherwise, weights may slip off and hit their toes, for example. It is generally undesirable for them to swing back and forth; gravity is sufficient.

What Not to Use

Office Paper Clips
Honestly, I wouldn’t recommend them. Too tight office clips are excruciatingly painful, while loose ones tend to have poor grip and easily slip off. Whenever possible, replace office clips with regular clothespins.
Tweezers
These are also not recommended due to their poor regulation mechanism. First, it’s very limited, and second, it’s simply inconvenient.

Where Can You Apply Clamps?

Nipples: For women, use thicker clamps; for men, smaller ones, as male nipples are smaller. Attach the clamp to the pink areola, but not to the tip—it’s usually too painful and may slip off. It’s recommended to place the clamp parallel to the body, as shown in the illustration above. A clamp placed perpendicularly to the body looks worse visually and feels more painful.
Around the Breasts: Tighter clamps are typically applied perpendicular to the skin, so they stand vertically. Multiple clamps are often placed in a circle.
Labia: Clamps can be applied to both large and small labia, although it’s generally more challenging to pinch small ones. Sometimes, while exploring folds, attempts are made to pinch the clitoris, but this usually ends up being “somewhere in between.”
Scrotum, Foreskin, Shaft of the Penis: (the last one if possible).
Ears, Lips, Eyebrows: These are sometimes used, but they can be quite polarizing in appearance.
Tongue: Place a tight clamp on the tongue as a punishment for yelling or inappropriate objections.
Inner Thighs, Pubic Area, Abdomen, Side Folds on the Abdomen: Any other place on the body where the skin can be pinched.
Fingers and Toes: You can place multiple clamps on one finger. Avoid attaching them directly to the nails, as they may slip off, break the nail, or leave an indentation or scratch.

What to Do Next? Options:

Pull the clamp in different directions, rotate it left and right. This can be done right after application and after some time to “wake up” the submissive and increase the pain.
If the clamp is securely applied, try to spank directly on it.
Tie a leash to the clamp and lead the submissive around.
Instruct the submissive to move around with the clamps on their body: squatting, crawling on all fours, etc.
If the clamp is securely applied, add weights to it

From the History of the Paddle

The question of where the paddle originated is not only complex and ambiguous but also seemingly unanswered. I have simply gathered the versions I found, and it’s up to you to decide which one you prefer.

Version One.

Some English-language sources agree that the paddle (a tool for corporal punishment) was created in the United States and was originally intended for punishing slaves, with the main goal being to avoid long-lasting marks that could lead to legal repercussions for the executor. It is presumed that the paddle was invented in Virginia, and its working surface was perforated with small holes. There are mentions that the early paddles had a flexible handle, though no substantial evidence of this fact has been found. There are accounts that a plantation-style paddle could easily knock someone unconscious without inflicting injury, breaking bones, or even cutting the skin.

Version Two.

The precursor to all paddles was the cobbing board, a wooden tool used by sailors in the navy. They were made from wooden planks from barrels and were common somewhere in the 18th century. However, the word “paddle” was not in use at that time. Notably, the cobbing board was employed for the lightest offenses. To make it, a board was taken that had a hole for a plug (or faucet) to make the strike more powerful. When struck with a full board, an “air cushion” softened the impact. Over time, holes began to be added “for flavor.”

It was these sailors who brought the paddle to the United States: initially, future slaves were beaten at sea, attempting to maintain their marketable appearance and value, and later the tool was adopted by buyers, who modified it for their own needs: the shape changed, and a handle was added.

Version Three.

The most obscure version relates exclusively to the school paddle. There is limited but still documentary evidence that the term “paddle” for some unknown reason came to denote a wooden variety of “ferula,” brought by teachers from the Old World. For a time, the words were synonyms, but at some point, one word completely replaced the other (but certainly no later than the 1830s).

Biker Whip (Get Back Whip)

Today, let’s discuss an accessory with a relatively short history. No soldiers, shepherds, or monasteries here, just brave biker dudes.

A biker whip can be attached to the brake or clutch lever of a motorcycle. Its distinctive feature is a special lock that allows the whip to be removed with a swift tug and brought into action in a matter of seconds.

Whip Matching the Lever Wrap

Today, the biker whip has lost much of its original purpose and is used not so much out of “necessity” as a stylish vintage accessory and/or a badge of identity. These whips are often made in the color scheme of club symbolism or matched to the bike’s paint job. The whip is balanced to flutter elegantly while riding but won’t hit the biker or passenger.

The range of materials used to make biker whips is quite broad. Both natural and synthetic leather, paracord, chains, and any combination of these materials are common. It’s also not unusual to find spikes, skulls, and other metal embellishments.

Since motorcycle models (and their owners’ tastes) can vary widely, the length of a biker whip is also quite variable: from 63 cm to 122 cm.

Lastly, let me show you an example of an original biker whip from the 1940s.

Length: 99 cm, with a weighted handle

Rubber Devices and Their Kin

Let me be clear: I am not a chemist. I cannot distinguish rubber from rubber, nor rubber from… rubber. I am simply a user of all these items. So I apologize in advance for any inaccuracies in physics and chemistry that you might encounter while reading this article. If I’m wrong about anything, it’s a sincere and well-intentioned misunderstanding…

So, rubber devices, as well as those made from polypropylene and silicone (hereinafter referred to as “rubber” for brevity). They are quite rare and underrated in the post-Soviet space. The reasons?

They aren’t aesthetically pleasing.
They aren’t fetishistic.
They aren’t “alive.”
Is that an option too?

To be serious, the lack of supply, a certain stiffness, and a lack of knowledge are contributing factors. I do not intend to convince people who dislike rubber for more or less objective reasons (the smell, “lifelessness,” appearance), but the lack of knowledge needs to be addressed…

Rubber: Pros and Cons

Pros:

Relatively inexpensive material. I think this needs no commentary.
Relatively variable material. Leather of 8 mm or more is rare and should be considered a museum piece; rubber is available in virtually any thickness.
Easy to clean (especially relevant for genital toys).
Although not very relevant in the post-Soviet space, rubber devices are vegan.

Cons:

Specific odor. (This is unlikely to bother fetishists, but it may deter others…)
Fragility (although this depends on the comparison). Nevertheless, rubber has the unfortunate tendency to crack at bends “just like that,” and cannot be restored.

Example: A device is 1.5 years old, and the handle detail is damaged.
Appearance.

Somewhere between the pros and cons lies the impact force. Rubber is a very “penetrating” material. It’s not for the faint-hearted or weak-backed. A lightweight “pocket” toy can easily create both a cosmic experience and a hell on earth. For this reason, I specifically recommend rubber for submissive men, as it is much easier to take down a two-meter tall guy with rubber than with anything else; I’ve tested this multiple times.

What Devices Can Be Made from Rubber?

All sorts, but mostly short ones. A full-length whip made from rubber is not something I’ve seen (or maybe I just haven’t found one), but the existing variety is quite sufficient for everything.

Slappers and Small Paddles

Single, double, triple, “dragon tongue”… These are very popular in my arsenal, fitting almost into a pocket, weighing little, and allowing for excellent variability in impact force: three layers for a noisy but soft hit, one layer to restrain and prevent escape.

Large Paddles

A large paddle made of thick 6 mm rubber is objectively a dangerous device. I simply gave away one with a long handle because the responsibility was too great for me. However, one weighing half a kilo is quite a handy tool.

Floggers

Rubber allows for the creation of any flogger (or martinet). Whether with a round, square, or flat tail, or with knots tied in, the possibilities are endless. Again, it’s important to remember that the impact force of such a flogger will differ significantly from that of a leather counterpart. I also want to mention genital floggers made from rubber, which are advantageous because they are much easier to clean.

I should also mention items made from rubber that aren’t devices (though they function perfectly well in that capacity). What distinguishes them is their affordable price (no BDSM markup) alongside fully functional qualities, with the understanding that they will be used for impact.

Percussion Massager: A spring-loaded ball with excellent manageability and impact force. The only issue is that the ball can come off, but it’s quite feasible to detach and reattach it yourself.
Self-Defense Slapper: I have one from Night Watchman, and I believe there are other similar options available.
Cold Steel Shambok: An excellent (but very heavy) device that is reasonably priced.

Rubber can also serve as a wrapping for canes/sticks/whips, increasing the durability of the device and its safety.

P.S.: After the initial publication of this article, a reader reminded me about a useful item called a skipping rope. I confess, I forgot about it.

I also learned from a reader about a rubber item called the “Scorpena diving belt.” I’m happy to add it to the article.

Shambok

The shambok is a traditional South African whip that has existed for centuries, but it became infamously known as the tool used by police in South Africa to disperse crowds of demonstrators, thus becoming a symbol of apartheid.

A Rare Two-tailed Variation

Shamboks are made from the skin of adult hippos (or rhinos). A strip measuring 90-150 cm is cut in such a way that one end forms a “handle” about 2.5 cm thick, tapering down to approximately 1 cm at the end. The thickness of the skin allows for this. The strip is then rolled between two steel plates to give it a round (as much as possible) shape. The resulting whip is elastic yet very rigid.

A plastic version of the shambok was also originally developed for police use when the demand for shamboks grew to the point that it became impossible to produce them from natural materials.

Police with Plastic Shamboks

The name “shambok” likely originates from the Indonesian word “sambok,” which referred to a wooden stick used for punishing slaves. At one time, the English brought many servants from Malaysia to South Africa, taking along both the instrument of punishment and its name. Wood was replaced by leather, while the word became entrenched in the Afrikaans language as “sjambok.” Interestingly, a related term, “chabouk,” meaning a whip for horses, is also used in India.

If the same tool is made from the skin of another animal, it is called “litupa.” In Swahili, a shambok is known as “kiboko” (the same term is used to refer to a hippo). In Portuguese-speaking Africa, shamboks were referred to as “chicote,” the term used for any whip.

The shambok is an extremely heavy tool used for herding cattle like a stock whip and also serves as a self-defense weapon. It is particularly effective against snakes, as it can easily sever them in half.

The shambok is simpler to handle than a classic whip and is more comparable to a stick. A light hit can leave a bruise, while a strong strike can penetrate flesh to the bone.

There was also a version of the shambok made not from skin, but from the penis of a hippo. This was sun-dried, with a weight attached to the end to elongate and thin it out. Once dried, it was cleaned and soaked in oil, resulting in a whip approximately 90 cm long. The shambok was used for judicial punishments and for urging slaves by the Portuguese, French, English, and Boers. It is still in use today for domestic punishments and controlling demonstrations. Although its use is banned in schools, incidents of its use do occur in private schools.

Scars from the Shambok

Understanding Bondage: A Guide to Safe Practices

Imagine stepping onto a rocky beach, lying down, and rolling around on the stones for fifteen minutes. A few readers might not feel discomfort due to their physical fitness and ability to manage their bodies well. However, for the thousands of others, the experience will likely involve groaning or even comical cries in response to the stones pressing against their muscles, ligaments, lymph nodes, and joints. Yet, many people willingly pick up rigid ropes, chains, and restraints, eager to apply them to their submissive partners.

This discussion is aimed at those intending to impact their partner’s body using various objects. A gentle poke to the zygomatic bone can alleviate a toothache, while a tap to the jugular notch can diffuse aggression. The human body is a complex biological mechanism comprising bones, joints, muscles, tendons, blood vessels, and a nervous system. Safe interaction with the body is only possible with a clear understanding of its structure.

Bones can be long or short (tubular, pneumatic, and compact), as well as flat. They are categorized into those of the head and torso, and the upper and lower limbs. Joints connect bones, forming the skeleton. Joints can be cartilaginous or fibrous, simple (with two bones) or complex. Types of joint cartilage and capsules classify them into ball-and-socket (cup-shaped), flat, ellipsoidal, and saddle joints. Joints can be uniaxial, biaxial, or multiaxial based on the number of movements around three mutually perpendicular axes (flexion and extension around the frontal axis; abduction and adduction around the sagittal axis; rotational movements, both inward and outward, around the vertical axis). There are 80 joints in the human skeleton, excluding the spine.

Ligaments are fibrous tissues that connect bones at joints, allowing for joint mobility. They can be extra-articular, periarticular, or intra-articular. Muscles consist of fibers grouped into bundles, and at both ends, connective tissue forms a tendon that attaches the muscle to the bone. Tendons, like muscles, are composed of bundles of fibers aligned parallel to the muscle’s length. Some muscles have multiple heads attached to different bones.

Lymph nodes receive lymph, bacteria, and debris from tissues and pump it into ducts, then into veins for further processing. They are classified as superficial and deep. Lymph nodes are highly sensitive to mechanical impacts (compression, deformation, and blows), which is crucial to consider when working on the body.

Blood vessels fall into two categories—arterial and venous. Arterial vessels deliver blood, while venous vessels return it to the heart. They begin as arteries or veins and terminate in capillaries. Misjudging the location of vessels and the strength of capillaries can lead to hematomas (bruises), which may be undesirable.

Nerve endings are categorized into sensory and motor, transmitting sensations to the nerve centers and controlling the muscles and organs. Similar to the circulatory and lymphatic systems, the nervous system has a central and peripheral structure with nodes that should be handled cautiously.

Beyond these components, there are dozens of centers, organs, glands, and other systems that should be considered when applying external forces to the human body. Anyone taking responsibility for impacting another’s body should be aware that reckless handling can lead to injuries that require professional medical attention or, in severe cases, the involvement of a medical team.

Bondage, which we’ll discuss further, is divided into three types:

Cinematic – portrays how not to bind someone for any purpose, often resulting in ineffectiveness and potential injury.
Professional (Tactical) – where the outcome of the binding can determine life and death, used by law enforcement and military personnel for arrest, transport, and operational purposes. This type is marked by harshness and a disregard for the health of the restrained individual.
Sexual (Playful) – aimed at achieving positive emotions for both dominant and submissive partners through safe body fixation.

Sexual bondage involves restricting the mobility of joints through various materials. Almost anything within your imagination can serve as a binding material: chains, metal cuffs, ropes, ribbons, vines, or even items of clothing or furniture that achieve safe body fixation.

So, how should one begin bondage? Certainly not by suddenly grabbing a rope and forcing your partner into a position of “victim,” which could prompt intervention from law enforcement. Any restriction of freedom should not be unexpected, as it may lead to injuries severe enough to necessitate a long break from sexual activities.

Start with exploration. Fearlessly delve into your partner’s internal (and external) world, understanding their views on sexual relationships, fantasies, and preferences. The more you learn about your partner, the clearer and smoother your relationship will become. Investigate their body for sensitive areas, lumps, moles, and flexibility of joints (especially the hips and shoulders), and discuss any chronic conditions like varicose veins, arthritis, or scoliosis. Even minor salt deposits in a joint can result in injuries during bondage experiments. Encourage your partner to perform stretches and poses that test their flexibility, ensuring their joints and ligaments can handle the pressure of your weight as you apply it during these exercises. If your partner struggles with some positions, it’s a sign that not all poses born of your imagination will be accessible during bondage sessions.

Binding techniques should never overlap with arterial tourniquet application, acupressure, or torture techniques, although experienced partners may find overlaps acceptable.

The primary principle of binding is to immobilize a joint (or a group of joints). Bound wrists still allow eight degrees of freedom at the shoulder and elbow joints, which is why Eastern binding techniques emphasize working with the “middle” joints—specifically the knee and elbow. How can you restrict movement at a specific joint? There are two methods:

Bind (or cuff) the body part connected to the joint you wish to restrict to another object or body part. The possibilities are numerous, limited only by your imagination and your partner’s capabilities. For example, one can safely be bound to a hot radiator or even touch their foot to the back of their neck.
Fix both sides of the joint in a borderline position. For the hands, this can be the “monk” or “praying mantis” position; for the legs, “seiza.” However, one must understand that bringing any joint to a limit state must be done with utmost care, balancing the desires of the dominant partner with the capabilities of the submissive.

The second method often complements the first by tying limbs together, thus immobilizing the hip and shoulder joints.

Binding to furniture, architecture, or trees should ideally be preceded by at least minimal education in materials resistance and technical mechanics, as visible strength can sometimes yield unexpected consequences for the untrained—chairs or beds can collapse, leading to unanticipated stresses on the joints and ligaments of the helpless partner, and broken pieces can cause injuries. Posts might lose their supports and fall with the bound individual, and mechanisms may unexpectedly activate for reasons beyond your control.

A specific area of bondage is suspension, which requires a deep understanding of physiology and anatomy, engineering knowledge, and awareness of the entire biomechanical complex of the suspended human body. Beams, hooks, or brackets capable of supporting three times the weight of the suspended individual must be used for suspension. Ropes, cables, or chains must also be able to withstand significantly greater weights than that of the suspended individual. Never suspend a person in places or on devices not intended for it—such as chandelier hooks, doors, or tree branches. If you decide to create your own conditions for suspending your partner, adhere strictly to installation techniques for brackets and hooks designed for the specific structures they will attach to.

The desire to incorporate bondage into your relationship can lead to a wide spectrum of emotions and sensations. Still, it carries risks of mistakes and issues due to insufficient caution and foresight. Even if you are itching to wrap your submissive in rope or have experience in bondage—keep learning. Read as much literature on anatomy and physiology, nervous activity, and psychology as you can. Seek out reputable experts to study binding techniques from those who have established credibility…

Key Insights from Japanese Practitioners on Japanese Bondage

A post translating an interview with Japanese bondage practitioners for Sin magazine, done by Uncle Shu, went almost unnoticed. However, it clearly outlines answers to key questions regarding the understanding of Japanese bondage, its fundamentals, terminology, and differences. It’s also interesting to note the attitudes of Japanese practitioners towards the current state of bondage and those who actively participate in the processes.

From the interview, several concrete conclusions can be drawn, which have previously sparked numerous discussions and even controversies:

What is Shibari and how does it differ from Kinbaku? – Shibari is a general term that denotes the act of binding something. Kinbaku refers specifically to erotic or sexual bondage, which can encompass shibari, spanking, BDSM, etc. However, there is no specific term other than “bondage” for other forms.
The purpose of bondage action (Kinbaku) can only be one: sex, sexual violence, provoking shame, and all that comes with it. Discussions about “art,” performances, and body/psychological practices are misleading. There’s a careful yet specific accusation of certain individuals, like Osada Steve, who transformed sexual deviance into an equivalent of a judo school.
The main point in bondage is the awareness of one’s need for the goal of bondage (see point 2). Merely studying and practicing the technical aspects of kinbaku is insufficient. One can learn to tie beautifully but not understand why and for what purpose, thus engaging in pointless nonsense.
The term “rigger,” which has come from the West, is rejected as meaningless and lacking eroticism. In the context of the overwhelming number of definitions and meanings, masters must specify the sadistic aspects of their bondage.
Japanese practitioners are not pleased with how their Japanese bondage has transformed, but they maintain a “good face”…

These are my subjective conclusions based on what the Japanese have said, who seem to choose their words carefully and are not entirely candid for various reasons, including national ones.

From my perspective, based on reading various materials, interviews, and articles with Japanese bondage practitioners over time:

They are all cunning little devils:

On one hand, they claim that foreigners cannot understand Japanese bondage; on the other hand, they eagerly travel the world with seminars and performances. Moreover, many of them have their own schools with diplomas and levels that they hand out for a small fee.
They deny bondage shows as something artificial and deceitful; yet, they themselves organize and participate in these shows, as “it’s just a job” (quote).
They strive to create an impression of their unique understanding of bondage, while in reality, everything they say and do is just talk about some allegedly exclusive sensations and depths of feeling.
Ultimately, the bondage practiced by the Japanese is fundamentally about sex, which, despite all the conclusions made above, is something that personally delights me.