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 as much art as emotion . The art of ropes can be a new way of exploring yourself and your partner . In this complete guide, we share everything you need to know to try shibari safely.

What is shibari?

Shibari is a Japanese bondage technique that involves tying up 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 restraints according to the social status of the captive . The patterns of the intertwined ropes also served to indicate the reason for the arrest.

Today, the terms of shibari and kinbaku are assimilated to be a popular practice in BDSM circles . It is often linked to aesthetic and artistic eroticism. In recent years, it has emerged from the darkness of dungeons to invite itself into the bedroom of those who wish to explore new horizons of connection and pleasure . 🪢

Rope art has become a form of artistic expression in its own right . There are competitions, photo exhibitions, and online videos. Shibari artists create intricate patterns with ropes, using the contours of the body to create striking shapes. The body is a blank canvas, and the skin becomes negative space to be filled.

This practice is also appreciated for its eroticism, which can be both gentle and sensual, intense and extreme. 🔥

Why try string games

What we love about shibari is that it is a practice that is as sensual as it is sexual and artistic. It mixes different sensibilities to create an experience of connection with one's partner.

Feeling constrained can be both exciting and calming , as it allows us to be fully aware of bodily sensations and thoughts.

Rope practice emphasizes emotion, trust and communication between partners. It invites us to listen to ourselves as much as to the other in order to mutually understand each other's limits. e. 🤍

Contrary to popular belief about bondage practices, shibari is a wonderful tool for exploration . Many people say that this art allows them to discover aspects of their personality and sexuality that were previously unknown. Yes, ropes can create a feeling of floating, or on the contrary, to amplify physical sensations.

They can be used to intensify orgasm, slow down the pace and prolong the pleasure. 😉

But shibari can also be an experience of meditation, relaxation and well-being . The tyer offers a total space of letting go to the tied person. The latter offers him her body and places her trust in his hands.

Rope play can also be used to explore different roles and fantasies , playing with power, submission and trust.

It's up to you to test, to explore what resonates 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'll tell you everything!

First thing: educate yourself. Search 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 La Voie de la Corde by Desmodus, Shibari, L'Atelier de Cordes by Esinem or Shibari, Techniques et esthétiques by Stanly.

You're in luck, shibari is an increasingly popular practice in France. There are therefore a growing number of schools and associations that offer courses and internships to get started 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, don't hesitate to do some research! Practicing in person allows you to gain confidence in your art and to be sure to progress in a safe environment.

Online courses can also be a good option, as they are often cheaper and more flexible. We still recommend doing an in-person workshop or having access to a mentor before you start.

Safety rules before you start

Let's not forget that shibari is initially a martial art. Like any practice from the great BDSM family, it requires initiation and solid safety rules. Practiced hastily and in complete ignorance, the art of ropes can be dangerous.

Here are the basic rules to follow:

It is essential to take into account safety rules before starting a shibari session. Here are some rules to follow:

1. Never practice these techniques while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. You or your partner must be fully present and alert.
   
   
2. 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.
   
   
3. Stay present with your partner throughout your roping session.
   
   
4. Only friction knots are used for shibari, no slip knots are practiced. Hemp or jute ropes, flexible and strong with a high friction power, are recommended. Other materials can slip and cause burns.
   
   
5. Have a pair of safety scissors or rope cutters handy to cut ropes in an emergency.
   
   
6. The ropes should be 6 to 8 metres long and 8 mm in diameter or more. They can mark the skin, but should never cut into it.
   
   
7. Before any session, take the time to talk with the person being tied up to clearly understand the limits of their consent. Do not engage in unwanted acts, including no sexual intercourse without consent.
   
   
8. Avoid suspending your partner unless you are an expert and have undergone specific training.

By following these rules and taking the time to educate yourself, you will be able to practice shibari safely and fully enjoy this unique experience.

You now have all the key information to take your first steps in the art of ropes. Approach shibari with a curious soul. Be ready to discover new sensations as well as new facets of your personality. To continue your adventures outside of conventional sexuality, take a look at our article dedicated to BDSM. 🤩