Shibari Emotions

During Shibari sessions, emotions are a priority. In this discipline, the emphasis is not placed on the binding itself, but on the intention the rigger has when handling the rope and binding their partner. The rope becomes an extension of their hands and helps create an intimate relationship quickly.

Japanese bondage focuses more on the performance of tying than on how the tie looks like at the end. Kinbaku (used interchangeably with Shibari), unlike Western bondage, is not only a sexual practice, but a real discipline that involves what the Japanese call kokoro: heart, spirit, and mind. Shibari is a power exchange session through the use of ropes. The rigger builds the session on the basis of what the tied person inspires and suggests via emotional and physical reactions to ropes.

How to Work Through Shibari Emotions

During a Shibari session, the tied person may experience strong emotions. These can be hard to manage especially if it is the first time experiencing Shibari which is why constant communication between the person tying and the person being tied is paramount.

It is best if the rigger and model already have some sort of relationship before the Shibari session. This allows both of them to feel comfortable with each other and the rigger to better understand the model’s non-verbal communication. A slight grimace, a hand gesture, and a lost look can mean different things for different people. It is important for the rigger to understand what they mean and react accordingly.

In the case of the person being tied, remember to breathe deeply and relax. Make sure you are checking in on yourself and do not be afraid to communicate when you do not want to continue (or when you are having a great time too!). The more you communicate, the better you will feel.

Final Thoughts

The objective of a Shibari session is to make your partner feel loved, cared for, and safe. When you perform Shibari correctly, it is pure art, and those tied up become serene and beautiful.

As you can see, Shibari is not about tying each other up in pretty knots. When you are tied up, the emotional connection you feel with your partner is intense. In turn, this shared moment will take you on a journey: you will learn a lot about each other. Have fun tying