Chokyo

Chokyo originally meant the training of an animal. Since it involves punishment, it should be understood in the sense of the metaphorical breaking of an animal. That is, the breaking of its will. We can think of chokyo as the reason behind a beast used for farming purposes not making an effort to break free. This original meaning has evolved, of course, and it has not much to do with animals nowadays. However, the twin principles of discipline and punishment have a current use in the world of bondage.

BDSM in general and bondage in particular require discipline, that should be clear from the beginning. They are no hobbies for the lazy and unimaginative, but rather paths for the artist and the creative to explore and discover. Learning all the knots, taking all the safety measures, it all requires discipline. Bondage takes time and a sustained effort, so discipline is mandatory.

Chokyo can be part of a role play among BDSM practitioners. In such a case, it is associated with the figure of the teacher. But you should not imagine the foolish, smiling teacher we see nowadays at schools, but rather the disciplinarian whose mission is to break their pupils so that they can rebuild them in an improved shape.

Chokyo is, in its most simple expression, the commitment not to quit because a scene is difficult or because it takes a long time. At its best, it is a drive for true aesthetic beauty and artistic perfection. So, even if unpopular for the Western mind, Chokyo can be a helpful figure. Actually, it is a sort of archetype to enrich erotic bondage scenes and practices.

The relationship between Chokyo and pupils must be deep and strong. It is a determination for the pupils’ improvement, even if it means breaking them. Or, to put it in Western terms, disregarding their own will.

Chokyo can be an interesting role to play and endure, just remember that, as in all things Shibari, consent is a must.