Shibari, shi-ba-ri, this name evokes something erotic and perhaps aesthetic without you being able to put your finger on it. Often associated with a sexual practice, Japanese bondage , also called kinbaku, is a discipline that touches both art and emotion . String art can be a new way of exploring yourself and your partner . In this complete guide, we share everything you need to try shibari safely.
What is shibari?
Shibari is a Japanese bondage technique that consists of tying your partner with ropes.
Shibari has a medieval Japanese origin, where it was used by the military to capture, torture and punish prisoners . The Nawashi, an elite trained in this technique, practiced different attachments depending on the social status of the captive . The patterns of the intertwined ropes also served to indicate the reason for the arrest.
Today, the temres of shibari and kinbaku are assimilated to be a popular practice in BDSM circles . It is often linked to aesthetic and artistic eroticism. For the past few years, it has emerged from the darkness of dungeons to invite itself into the bedrooms of those who wish to explore new horizons of connection and pleasure . 🪢
String art has become a form of artistic expression in its own right . There are competitions, photo exhibitions and videos online. Shibari artists create intricate patterns with the strings, using the contours of the body to create striking shapes. The body is a blank canvas and the skin becomes negative spaces to fill.
This practice is also appreciated for its eroticism, which can be both soft and sensual, intense and extreme. 🔥
Why Try String Sets
What we love about shibari is that it's as sensual as it is sexual and artistic. She mixes different sensibilities to create an experience of connection with her or his partner.
Feeling constrained can be both exciting and calming , as it allows us to be mindful of body sensations and thoughts.
The practice of ropes emphasizes emotion, trust and communication between partners. She invites us to be as attentive to ourselves as to the other in order to mutually understand each other's limits. e. 🤍
Contrary to popular belief about bondage practices, shibari is a great tool for exploration . Many people say that this art allows them to discover aspects of their personality and their sexuality that were still unknown until now. Yes, the strings can create a feeling of floating, or on the contrary to amplify the physical sensations.
They can be used to intensify the orgasm, slow down the rhythm and prolong the pleasure. 😉
But shibari can also be an experience of meditation, relaxation, and well-being . The rigger offers the attache a total letting go space. e. The latter offers him her body and puts her trust in his hands.
String games can also be used to explore different roles and fantasies , playing with power, submission and confidence.
It's up to you to test, to explore what resonates the most with you. ✨
How to get into shibari
OK, you're tempted by kinbaku, but you don't know how to try it safely. Don't panic, we tell you everything!
First thing: educate yourself. Search the forums, blogs and accounts dedicated to the practice of ropes to take a first step into this universe. You can also satisfy your curiosity with reference works such as The Way of the Rope by Desmodus, Shibari, The String Workshop by Esinem or Shibari, Techniques and aesthetics by Stanly.
You are in luck, shibari is an increasingly popular practice in France. There is therefore a growing number of schools and associations that offer courses and internships to begin in Japanese bondage.
In Paris, you have the École des Cordes , but also the Atelier Simonet. In Lyon, Lyon Shibari and Baryss Rope . In some cities, you will find teachers instead. e. s, do not hesitate to do research! Practicing face-to-face allows you to gain confidence in your art and to be sure to move forward in a safe environment.
Online courses can also be a good option, as they are often cheaper and more flexible. We still recommend doing a face-to-face workshop or having access to one. e mentor. and before starting.
Safety rules before starting
Let's not forget that shibari is initially a martial art. Like any practice from the large BDSM family, it requires initiation and solid safety rules. Practiced hastily and in complete ignorance, the art of strings can be dangerous.
Here are the basic rules to follow:
It is essential to take into account the safety rules before starting a shibari session. Here are some rules to follow:
- Never practice these techniques under the influence of drugs or alcohol. You or your partner must be fully present. e and watchful. e.
- Know the sensitive points of the human body, such as the radial nerve in the arm and the humeral nerve in the legs, in order to rule out any risk of paralysis.
- Stay present with your partner throughout your roping session.
- Only friction knots are used for shibari, no running ones are practiced. Hemp or jute ropes, soft and sturdy with strong friction power, are recommended. Other materials may slip and cause burns.
- Have a pair of safety scissors or a rope cutter on hand to cut the ropes in case of an emergency.
- The ropes should be 6 to 8 meters long and from 8 mm in diameter. They can mark the skin, but should never cut into it.
- Before any session, take the time to discuss with the attached person to clearly know the limits of their consent. Do not practice unwanted acts, in particular no sexual relations without consent.
- Avoid suspending your partner unless you are an expert and have had specific training.
By respecting these rules and taking the time to educate yourself, you will be able to practice shibari in complete safety and take full advantage of this unique experience.
You now have all the key information to take your first steps in string art. Approach the shibari with a curious soul. Be ready to discover new sensations like new facets of your personality. To continue your adventures outside conventional sexuality, take a look at our article dedicated to BDSM. 🤩