Not All on The Rigger

Rope bondage is not all on the rigger. People usually think that riggers do all the work in shibari, but the rope bottoms play an equally important role. Rope bondage is an experience two people share. Consequently, what the rope top wants from the interaction is only half of the equation. Since rope bondage can be dangerous, riggers have a lot to do and learn to control the scene. And, just as these partners do, rope bottoms have their own tasks and areas on which to focus and collaborate.

Not All on the Rigger: a Shared Responsibility

First, both rope tops and bottoms have a great responsibility. Because rope bondage can be dangerous and involve great risks, both partners need to be aware of their actions. When you are a rope bottom, you risk getting injured. Although most injuries are minor, potential injuries in shibari could last from hours to a lifetime. It is important to choose a partner who is concerned and aware of your safety. That is, someone you trust, who listens to you, and responds to the communication you provide.

You must be emotionally ready for the confidence you will entrust in the rigger for a scene. Similarly, you need to be focusing on you and not in the rope: the rope is your partner’s responsibility. In short, you only need to rely on him for this. For this reason, communicating your feelings and misconceptions to the rigger as a top bottom is a must. You need to perfectly know your body in order to detect if something is not feeling right. In addition, you must share it with your partner immediately. If you are not sure if it is hurting or if you have numbness in some part of your body, you need to let your partner know so you can switch position or release the rope.

Emotional Discharge

Moreover, you must prepare for the physical and emotional discharge you will experience during rope bondage. (You can learn more on our entry about shibari aftercare.) To begin with, hydrating before and after the shibari scene is crucial. If you are not properly hydrated, you increase the chances of injury. In addition, warming up is also something important. Doing some light dynamic stretching or movement just to warm up the body is essential. And do not forget deep stretching after the session.

Image Sophie Dituri