Shibari Sitting Positions: A Beginner’s Guide
Shibari, the Japanese art of rope bondage, involves various sitting positions that are essential for practitioners to understand. In particular, these Shibari sitting positions form the foundation of many tying sessions and exercises. Let’s explore the most common positions and their Japanese names in order to enhance your rope play experience.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
- Seiza: The Traditional Kneeling Position
- Yokozuwari:-Sideways-Sitting
- Agura: Cross-Legged Sitting
- Other Useful Sitting Positions
Seiza: The Traditional Kneeling Position
Seiza (正座)the starting point for many Shibari sessions. Here’s what you need to know:
- Pronunciation: “say-zah”
- Position: Kneel on the floor with legs folded under thighs, buttocks resting on heels
- Important note: This position can be uncomfortable to hold for long periods
Beginners should practice Seiza to build endurance. However, don’t worry if you need to shift positions after a while. Your tying partner may give you permission to move using a phrase like “ashi o kuzushite ii yo” (It’s okay to adjust your legs).
Yokozuwari: Sideways Sitting
When Seiza becomes uncomfortable, many practitioners switch to Yokozuwari. This position offers more comfort during longer tying sessions.
- Also known as: O-neh-san-zuwari (お姉さん座り)
- Pronunciation: “yo-ko-zoo-wah-ree” or “oh-neh-san-zoo-wah-ree”
- Position: Sit with buttocks on the floor, both legs bent at the knee and turned to one side
Yokozuwari distributes weight more evenly, making it easier on your legs and back. Nevertheless, it’s essential to listen to your body and adjust as needed.
Agura: Cross-Legged Sitting
Agura (胡坐) is a familiar and comfortable position for many people. Furthermore it’s often used in Shibari practice and has even inspired specific ties.
- Pronunciation: “ah-goo-rah” (with a hard “g” sound)
- Position: Sit cross-legged on the floor, ankles crossed, knees bent and out to the sides
- Fun fact: This position is the basis for a popular tie called “agura-shibari”
Agura is versatile and can be maintained for longer periods compared to Seiza. It’s an excellent position for beginners to practice tying techniques.
Other Useful Sitting Positions
While less common in Shibari practice, these positions may come up during stretching exercises or variations in rope play:
- Chōza (長座): “Sitting long” with legs extended straight out
- Taiiku-zuwari (体育座り): Sitting with legs in front, knees bent, and heels on the floor
- Petanko-zuwari (ぺたんこ座り): Sitting flat on the floor with knees bent and open
Understanding these positions enhances your Shibari vocabulary and practice. Remember, comfort and communication are key in any rope play session.
Mastering Shibari sitting positions is crucial for both riggers and models. These positions form the basis of many tying techniques and can greatly impact the comfort and enjoyment of your sessions. Therefore, as you explore Shibari, practice these positions to build strength and flexibility. Aditionally, always prioritize safety and open communication with your partner to ensure a positive experience for everyone involved.
