What is Agura?

Cross-Legged Sitting

Agura (胡座) refers to sitting cross-legged with both knees bent and feet tucked in front. In everyday Japan, this position is commonly associated with informal relaxation, typically practiced by men. While less formal than Seiza, it remains deeply embedded in Japanese sitting customs.

• Agura in Shibari
• When to Use Agura in Rope Play
• Physical Considerations
• Tips for Practicing Agura in Rope Play
• Cultural Note
• Interested in other sitting positions used in Shibari?

Agura in Shibari

In Shibari, Agura is a versatile and accessible sitting posture for bottoms. It offers comfort and balance, making it ideal for beginners or for longer rope scenes where circulation and endurance matter. This position also allows for creative chest harnesses and upper body ties while leaving the legs free.

Agura suggests a grounded, open energy—different from the meditative stillness of Seiza. It can convey vulnerability or confidence depending on context, body language, and scene dynamics.

When to Use Agura in Rope Play

• For extended sessions where comfort is important.

• When tying chest harnesses or upper-body-focused patterns.

• In warm-up ties or casual practice scenes.

• As a starting posture that’s easy to modify or transition from.

Physical Considerations

Agura is generally more forgiving on the knees and feet compared to Seiza. However, individuals with tight hips or lower back issues may experience discomfort.

Tips for Practicing Agura in Rope Play

• Sit on a cushion or folded blanket to elevate the hips.

• Stretch hips and lower back beforehand.

• Keep the spine upright to prevent slouching.

• Alternate leg positions if one side feels strained.

Cultural Note

Agura is often viewed as a masculine sitting posture in traditional Japanese settings. In Shibari, however, it transcends gender, becoming a comfortable and aesthetically neutral base for connection and creativity.

Interested in other sitting positions used in Shibari?

• Seiza (The Traditional Kneeling Position)
• Yokozuwari (Sideways Sitting)
• Tatehiza (One-Knee Raised Sitting)
• Wariza (Split Sitting)
• Anza (Relaxed Cross-Legged Sitting)
• Kiza (Tensed Kneel)
• Hakanza (Half Lotus)
• Hanza (Half-Sitting)