The different practices of bondage and shibari
Shibari bondage is a BDSM practice that involves creating restraint by tying a person up with ropes or cords. A person who ties up will bind them with various ties in order to restrict their movements and create a state of vulnerability that can provide a pleasurable experience for both the person tying and the person being tied.
Bondage today encompasses various practices, the most traditional being shibari . Shibari is the Japanese art of tying bonds using ropes. It is a relatively recent practice inspired by a feudal martial art with numerous rules. However, shibari and the practice of bondage have evolved across the globe, and new techniques have emerged in the countries and cultures where they have developed. This is particularly true of American bondage .
So how do we differentiate between the various bondage practices? What are the differences between shibari and American bondage? How can we practice them safely? Here's an explanation.
The practice of bondage
Bondage corresponds to the letter B in BDSM. It is a classic BDSM practice involving the restraint of a person through the use of ties. Both the person tying and the person being tied find pleasure in creating a state of vulnerability. The method of tying can vary, and above all, the ties can be of different types:
-Handcuffs
-Scarves
-Ropes of all types
-Adhesive tape
-Cellophane
A wide variety of objects and materials can be used to create restraints. However, it is important to be careful and avoid reckless use, as some restraints, when used incorrectly, can be dangerous and cause injury.
This practice of bondage can also vary according to culture and country. It encompasses different techniques and approaches, from shibari to American bondage.
American bondage
Throughout history and through various cultural influences, bondage, originating from traditional Japanese shibari , has evolved into new practices and philosophies. From this evolution of shibari emerged American bondage, born during the American occupation of Japan from 1945 to 1952.
This style differs significantly from the very traditional shibari kinbaku, which is based on a strong aesthetic and a highly developed interpersonal connection. Americans have evolved the practice, notably by simplifying the technique and using various types of rope, particularly synthetic or cotton ropes. The goal of American bondage remains restraint, but it incorporates a "show" element without a genuine connection with one's partner. It is a form of bondage primarily involving floor work without suspension, due to the permitted use of ropes.
Bondage and shibari kinbaku
Shibari is the foundation of modern bondage and was developed in the West, much like American bondage. It originated as a feudal martial art in Japan, involving knotting and tying. Originally, it wasn't just about tying people, but also shoelaces or packages, for example. In traditional shibari, there is no interaction between partners; the focus is simply on restraining the body with ropes in an artistic manner. Sexualization is entirely absent.
Kinbaku, often associated with shibari, is a traditional Japanese bondage technique used simply to restrain people. Kinbaku eroticizes pain through tight, binding restraint. The connection between partners is paramount, with intention present at every moment. Furthermore, the sexual element is very strong in kinbaku.
This is the shibari kinbaku style taught at the School of Ropes, allowing students to discover and refine their skills in a safe and comfortable environment. For all types of bondage, it is important to be careful and respect certain safety rules.
