Shibari History
Jun. 11th, 2018 08:07 pm![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
kissa_bitesAmong the many uses of Shibari are dynamic living sculpture, shared meditative practice, deep relaxation for flexibility of mind and body, expression of power exchange, and intimate erotic restraint.
In Shibari (the action of tying someone up) the Nawashi (rope artist) creates almost geometric patterns and shapes that contrast wonderfully with the female body's natural curves and recesses. Visually, the tight ropes and their texture provide a counterpoint to smooth skin and curves.
The hard edges of the rope reinforce the softness of the body's graceful shape: the model is like a canvas, and the rope is paint and brush. This contrast is even emphasized by the use of Junoesque models, whose generous curves are squeezed by the ropes to create more pronounced shapes and shadows.
From antiquity to today, religious ceremonies in Japan involve ropes and ties to symbolize connections among people and the divine, as well as to delineate sacred spaces and times.
The roots of shibari began as a 15th Century martial art form. Japanese rope tie or technique being used by a person in a martial arts context and restraining prisoners. Signified by a lack of knots as it was considered shameful for people of a higher status to be bound.
Hojo-jutsu is a part of Bugei Juhappan which is the 18 bushi (samurai) skills. Hojo-jutsu deals with capturing and restraining suspects and criminals. It has its origins in ancient
Japan in the Tokugawa Shogunate and later refined further during the Edo period.
Because bondage was considered a shameful practice, the legal captor used no knots thus out of respect allowed the person arrested no shame. There were four rules of hojo-jutsu:
1. To not allow the prisoner to slip his bonds.
2. To not cause any physical or mental injury.
3. To not allow others to see the techniques.
4. To make the result beautiful to look at.
Bondage was also used for torture during these periods, most often by tying the prisoner in the Ebizeme (prawn) position, and left for extended periods of time. If this failed, then the prisoner would have their hands bound behind their back and pulled up, and suspended this way, with weights added, this was called Tsurushi-zeme.
According to the earliest tradition of the Edo (1600-1868) period, there was a well-establisehd association between four colors (blue, red, white and black), the seasons, directions, and the four Chinese guards of the four directions (the dragon, the phoenix, the tiger and the tortoise).
The color of the rope changed with the season, and the prisoner was restrained facing the direction appropriate to the color and season. By the end of the Edo period, the colors had been reduced to two, white and indigo.
Hemp was used for the real ropes while silk was used for practice upon straw dummies.
Kinbaku is based on fairly specific rope patterns, many of them derived from Hojojutsu ties though significantly modified to make them safer for bondage use. Many Hojojutsu ties were deliberately designed to cause harm to a prisoner and are therefore not suitable for erotic bondage.
Of particular importance are the Ushiro Takatekote (a type of box tie which surrounds the chest and arms), which forms the basis of many Kinbaku ties, and the Ebi, or "Shrimp", which was originally designed as a torture tie and codified as part of the Edo period torture techniques. Today the tie is used as part of SM play and can be considered a form of Semenawa, torture rope.
Kinbaku A verb meaning "to bind tightly" and describing the sexual exchange between two people enjoying a session of Japanese rope play. Specifically noted by the use of natural fibers such as jute, usually single colored rope, 5-7 mm diameter rope, about 7-8 meters long and finished in a single knot.
There is a focus on functionality of the bondage using weaves rather than knots and the rigger actively targets erogenous zones. The lack of knots refers to Hojojutsu customs. While the terms Shibari and Kinbaku can be used almost synonymously, Kinbaku often refers to more sexually explicit rope scenes. sually the word shibari will refer to the act of tying and the aesthetic aspects of it, while the word kinbaku adds emotional and physical aspects to this form of bondage
Kinbaku-Bi the beauty of tight binding shibari done in the traditional manner for an aesthetic / erotic effect.
Those that want to distinguish the terms say that shibari refers to purely artistic, aesthetic rope, whilst kinbaku refers to the artistic, connective, sensual, sexual practice as a whole
Sensei Teacher, Master, Doctor; he who has gone before.
Setting the process of tightening a knot
Shibararetai A bottom publicaly indicating his/her desire for bondage action.
Shibari Do / Shibari The act of the Japanese art of decoratively tying. May be rope or ribbons. Specifically refers to the art of tying and the study thereof. Not specifically bondage related. In bondage use, natural or natural looking fibers are preferred. Colored ropes and knots are acceptable as the aesthetic of the tie is the tantamount goal.
Japanese for "to tie", in the BDSM community it refers to contemporary forms of Japanese Bondage. Though the history of Shibari cannot be traced definitively, it's thought to have originated with the Eastern Martial Arts form of Hojojutsu. It is consequently not surprising that common forms found in Shibari resemble stress positions such as a Strappado or hog tie. Many other forms are intended to expose or shame the rope bottom. Symmetry and deliberate asymmetry, as well as geometric patterns are a large part of the aesthetic of Shibari. However it should be noted that Shibari is not a type of decorative tying, though the aesthetic of a tie is important, the purpose of the tie is to restrain, immobilize and sometimes torture the bottom. Traditionally Shibari uses natural fiber rope, such as jute or hemp, that is roughly 5 - 7 millimeters in diameter and 8 meters long. Shibari utilizes very few knots and typically relies on hitches for the structure of the patterns.
Shibari Sensei A term invented in the western world to describe a Oriental rope master/artist.
Shibaritai A top indicating his/her desire for bondage action.
Modern eastern bondage (kinbaku) has its known origin with Ito Seiu (1882-1961), who replicated many ancient forms bondage for photographs. Eastern bondage has evolved into a sensual art form best characterized by:
1. Rendering the captive powerless.
2. Its aesthetic appeal, it must be beautiful.
3. Stillness, both of the body and of the spirit, the captive in kinbaku is willing and often taking a spiritual journey.
The word zuri is often added after another tie to reference being done while suspended
The word Shibari literally translates as "to tie."
Asanawa - hemp rope used in traditional Japanese Bondage. (asa = hemp, nawa = rope)
Bakushi - Rope Master
Dorei - Slave
JuJun - Submissive
Karada - means "body", refers to torso/body bondage
Kinbaku - The ancient Japanese Art of biding tightly with rope. It denotes a harsher form of restrain leading up the erotic forms, which would become known as "kinbaku-bi".
Kinbaku-bi - This word is from the late 19th century and describes the beauty and erotic aspects of rope bondage born from the ancient hojojutsu techniques of prisoner restraint. -bi means beautiful.
Nawashi - Rope Master
M-jo (m-o in case of a male sub) - This is the most widely accepted term in Japan today for the one captured in rope. Some just refer to themselves as a "model" - Most Japanese female rope captives think of themselves simply as "models".... or m-jo.
Seiza - correct sitting position. Kneeling, eyes closed, reflective of the lesson about to begin, or of the lesson just received.
Shibari - a modern term applied to the art of kinbaku. First usage has been traced to about the 1950's by some of the Japanese bondage magazines. Not generally used in
Japan.
Shibaritai - A bondage top indicating desire for bondage.
Shibararetai - A bondage bottom indicating desire for bondage.
Tsurinawa - suspension with rope
today performers are often referred to as Nawashi (rope master) or Bakushi (from kinbakushi, meaning bondage master).
Traditionalists believe the practice of Shibari can stimulate Ki energy flow and transfer. It’s also possible for the model to enter a trance-like state as their endorphins and other hormone levels increase. The term "rope drunk" has been used to describe the state of a model recovering from a Shibari session.
The person who ties, commonly known as the rigger, restrains his or her partner, known as the model, according to the emotional and physical reactions observed.
1/4 inch (6.4mm) is the most "authentic" size. This is the size rope that you'll see in most Japanese Rope Bondage photographs, where it's usually doubled for extra strain relief. It bites a bit more than the larger sizes, and provides that wonderful sensation of being tightly held, but isn't small enough to cause damage. For captives with petite builds, the narrow rope nicely compliments their natural shape.
Hemp rope is the most authentic; this is what rope in the Orient was usually made out of, a thousand years ago. Because it is formed out of twisted plant fibers, new hemp rope is highly abrasive, and strongly discourages struggling. After hemp has been laundered several times it becomes much softer, more akin to cotton. Sometimes jute or linen are used and are generally around 6 mm in diameter, but sometimes as small as 4 mm, and between 7 – 8 m long). In Japanese, this natural-fibre rope is known as asanawa; the Japanese vocabulary does not make a distinction between hemp and jute. In Japan the most often used type of rope is a loose laid, three strand rope.
The natural fibers easily lock to each other which means the bondage can be held together by the friction of twists and turns or very simple knots. Traditionally, multiple 6-8 meter lengths are used
Sisal is a modern equivalent to hemp; it's like a thick twine, and is highly abrasive. And laundering it won't help.
Moving hemp or Sisal over the skin -- even a little bit -- produces an uncomfortable feeling of "burn". Move it a little more, and you quickly get skin abrasions as a warning to stop moving now. Continue moving beyond that, and it becomes damaging and intensely painful. Considering the military origins of Japanese Rope Bondage, where the goal was to immobilize a prisoner, rough fibers like these were a good choice. If you wish to do a scene where you teach your captive to remain totally still, instead of permitting/encouraging them to struggle helplessly, this is the type of rope to use.
Traditional Japanese-style ropes are the light brown of new hemp or the tan/grey of laundered hemp, while modern Japanese-style ropes are the bright white of nylon
If you want the authentic helplessness of the Japanese style, without the agony of raw hemp, then it's 1/4" braided nylon you want.
Finishing raw hemp rope is a process that takes a fair amount of time to do correctly. First, the hemp is boiled and carefully dried, stretched to pull the kinks from the boiling out, then the stray strands are singed. Finally, mink or mineral oil (human consumption grade) is worked into the fibers.
After completing the process you have a piece of rope that feels very similar to a sensual, although scratchy, Shetland wool sweater when it rubs across the skin. For softer rope, you can boil and dry it several times, though with each boiling, the rope is weakened so there is a careful balance to be mindful of. Hemp tolerates water more than jute does so it’s easier to keep clean. Hemp fibers are much longer and durable, therefore the load bearing capacity is higher.
Hemp ropes have high breaking strength, a single 6mm rope can support up to 230 kilograms (507 lbs) of weight. Their colour gets more golden with treatment (burning, oiling). A bit heavier than jute but still soft and pliable, the dense shape and sharp details make this rope photograph beautifully. Hemp has a history of being used in all sorts of craftsmanship - it even inspired Japanese artforms, the hemp leaves appearing as geometric patterns called “asanoha” in textiles and paintings. The Japanese term “asanawa” does not make a distinction between hemp or jute rope either.
Factory processed jute fibers require various treatments of JBO (jute batching oil) to make them more pliable for industrial use and while it is relatively easy to get a hold of nice looking ropes this way, they tend to smell of petroleum that can only be eliminated by washing/baking the rope multiple times. A study suggests that JBO is highly carcinogenic! Many people who experience allergies when in contact with jute might actually just be sensitive to this compound. It is possible to get a hold of untreated jute but it's very expensive and also more fragile.
Hemp is either derived from industrial cannabis, i.e. negligible THC, or linen (flax). Finished hemp rope has the perfect balance of textures, being both rough and soft, with a pleasant, grassy aroma. Hemp rope doesn't stretch like braided nylon or polypropylene and it holds a knot remarkably well. It also has a lower tendency to produce "rope burn" than synthetic ropes.
8mm and 6mm rope is great for general bodywork such as torso harnesses, pelvic harnesses, breast bondage, and ankle or wrist cuffs. Good working standard lengths are the 25 feet for torso/pelvic work and 12.5 ft lengths for wrist or ankle cuffs.
Jute is not as strong but it is lighter, which means it handles differently to hemp. Hemp has a certain amount of heft, whereas jute is more ‘flickable’. Hemp has a bit more drag when tying. Jute tends to polish up with use. Using carabiners instead of large diameter wooden or metal rings will extend the life of ropes, because they rub less against each other and the support lines can be separated - so choose whichever rope suits your style best and keep an eye on wear and tear at all times.
‘I am hyperactive with a very fast brain, but due to the intense connection and slow build up and removal of rope, shibari allows me to be mentally still.
‘I love the beauty of it and how the women look so feminine
There is no point in fighting bonds if you are stuck – there comes a time when you need to accept it and simply ‘be’.
Many people think of it as secretaries bound to office chairs with nylon rope or hogtied housewives on kitchen floors – this is very different. I’d describe it as aerial tango, done with flow and passion. When people put their heart and soul into it – well, I’ve seen people in tears after being tied. They say, ‘I’ve no idea why I’m crying, I’m just so happy.’ It unblocks some emotional dam.”
Some people say it has a meditative effect,” he says. “It silences the chatter of the everyday.”
Always keep a pair of safety shears in your rope bag
‘Never tie into the crease of a joint as this can cause circulation problems.
‘Never leave a tied person alone ‘
Always use proper rope, never twine, washing line or anything too thin.’
Visually, the tight ropes and their texture provide a counterpoint to smooth skin and curves. The hard edges of the rope reinforce the softness of the body's graceful shape: the model is like a canvas, and the rope is paint and brush. This contrast is even emphasized by the use of Junoesque models, whose generous curves are squeezed by the ropes to create more pronounced shapes and shadows.
Shibari is a combination of bondage effects as most of us know them (power, helplessness), but also beauty and aesthetics (it can be compared to Japanese Ikebana, the 700 year-old Japanese art of flower arranging). The intense massage by the ropes and knots is very similar to acupuncture techniques and Shiatsu (a form of Japanese massage).
The art of arranging ropes and knots on the model’s body according to a strict sense of aesthetics reflects the cultural heritage of Ikebana, which emphasizes characteristics like sensuality, vulnerability, and strength. On the other hand, Shibari is simply a static monument.
The concept of positioning knots to stimulate pressure points on the body is derived from Shiatsu. The skilled Nawashi uses his knowledge of massage and pressure points to get those thick knots in just the right places. There are crossover influences and effects between Shibari and the traditional Asian medical philosophy of Ki-energy, meridians and Trusbo (pressure points), used in Shiatsu and other Bokam (traditional oriental medicine) techniques.
There are three schools or types of shibari or Ryu.
• Newaza - floor techniques involving the caressing style created by Yukimura Haruki - to connect emotionally with your partner. Basic skills and more advanced ties can be practiced while doing this type of bondage. Setting the mood and atmosphere is just as important as being proficient in shibari itself - it is up close, and personal. Other BDSM plays can be incorporated.
• Tsurinawa - rope suspension. Considered to be the most advanced, difficult and dangerous school of shibari. One requires accurate knowledge of the human body and also physics to practice suspension safely. Poses can be comfortable and functional but also very challenging and sometimes painful. Usually people tend to only stay in suspension for short intervals.
• Kazari Nawa - using leftover rope in bondage in a way that is both practical and pleasing to the eye. If one is using the traditional 7-8m length ropes, ties will always end with some of them left unused. Instead of letting them hang loose, they can be incorporated to form intricate patterns, showing off a personalized style.
The goal of a shibari session can usually fit into one of these categories - of course every play session is different, but as with BDSM one can distinguish between psychological dominance/submission and sadomasochism and choose whichever is appropriate for the current mood of the model and rigger.
• Shuuchinawa - tying to achieve sexual shame (psychological effect) in the model. Exposing naked body parts, putting the model in intentionally uncomfortable and embarrassing positions are examples.
• Semenawa - "torture rope", using bondage as means to exert pain and discomfort. This can be achieved via the positions themselves or different types of ropes that are rougher on the skin, for example coconut or sisal. Water bondage is a form of semenawa that is also quite dangerous, as natural rope tightens when wet.
• Muganawa - to tie in a selfless way that shows the model's true potential and beauty without enforcing your will or dominance over them, carefully observing the ambiance of the situation and letting it guide the ropes. The energy exchange between rope partners is very important. The rigger must accurately gauge the mood of the person being tied and create rope art accordingly, skillfully using both visual and physical elements of shibari to be able to reach a meditative state of mind.
RISKS AND DANGERS
First of all, the most important part of any sort of bondage play is mutual consent. It is absolutely necessary to have clear, open communication between partners to be able to play safe. This especially applies to shibari, as in itself even the simplest tie can be dangerous.
• Loss of circulation - for very obvious reasons one must avoid putting rope over joints and major blood vessels. Cutting off blood flow to sensitive areas such as the hands can cause irreversible damage. Keep an eye on limbs turning purple - to some extent it can be a normal reaction to any restrictive rope work, though. Constantly checking in with the model will help gauge whether to loosen a tie or not. A gradually appearing tingly sensation can be a good indicator for example.
• Nerve damage - too much pressure on nerve endings over certain parts of the body cause a different type of tingly feeling than restricted blood flow. The radial nerve in the upper arm/wrist is the most affected and problematic area, especially if doing suspensions starting off with a box tie. It is best to interrupt play and untie the model if they report any sort of weird numbness and loss of feeling in fingers or other body parts.
• Equipment failure - using any sort of natural material for ropework will carry risks, as the load bearing measurements are always an estimate. Ropes tend to break less often - knots and ties slipping can be more problematic. Always test your hardpoints before beginning any sort of suspension and check your ropes for wear and tear at all times. You can maximize safety by placing a mat below the point from which you are going to suspend someone. Work in both yours and the model's limits to be on the safe side. Partial suspensions can be just as enjoyable and beautiful, with less risk involved.
Knots in Shibari
Shibari generally is done with mostly all hitches. It’s actually based more on frictions than true knots for historic reasons.
A knot usually happens only at the beginning to secure the rope to a limb and at the end to not let it all unravel easily.
Reverse tension or 'frictions' is what we call it when you change directions in the rope and the tension holds the rope in place. Frictions aren't traditional knots where you are looping and tying rather, it’s wrapping and using counter tension. For instance, you can have a forward tension single column tie (the rope is wrapped in one direction around the wrist and then locked off) or a reverse tension single column tie (the rope is wrapped one direction and then back the other way around a thigh, before being locked off).
You can honestly get away with only knowing a granny knot (hon musubi) to do kinbaku and that is less of a knot and more of a friction (again, it’s the friction that keeps it solid)
The Garden Glossary http://thebdsmgarden.com/efiction/viewpage.php?page=BGlossary has a fairly extensive list of shibari ties and goes over rope and knots.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Japanese_bondage has a good list of shibari ties, some have links to more information.
Check these guys out http://www.knottyboys.com/code/downloads.php they'll teach you alot. All the videos are free to download. Specifically the "harnesses and other ties" section look at the corselet harness video it'll show you a hitching technique you can literally use anywhere on the body
In Shibari (the action of tying someone up) the Nawashi (rope artist) creates almost geometric patterns and shapes that contrast wonderfully with the female body's natural curves and recesses. Visually, the tight ropes and their texture provide a counterpoint to smooth skin and curves.
The hard edges of the rope reinforce the softness of the body's graceful shape: the model is like a canvas, and the rope is paint and brush. This contrast is even emphasized by the use of Junoesque models, whose generous curves are squeezed by the ropes to create more pronounced shapes and shadows.
From antiquity to today, religious ceremonies in Japan involve ropes and ties to symbolize connections among people and the divine, as well as to delineate sacred spaces and times.
The roots of shibari began as a 15th Century martial art form. Japanese rope tie or technique being used by a person in a martial arts context and restraining prisoners. Signified by a lack of knots as it was considered shameful for people of a higher status to be bound.
Hojo-jutsu is a part of Bugei Juhappan which is the 18 bushi (samurai) skills. Hojo-jutsu deals with capturing and restraining suspects and criminals. It has its origins in ancient
Japan in the Tokugawa Shogunate and later refined further during the Edo period.
Because bondage was considered a shameful practice, the legal captor used no knots thus out of respect allowed the person arrested no shame. There were four rules of hojo-jutsu:
1. To not allow the prisoner to slip his bonds.
2. To not cause any physical or mental injury.
3. To not allow others to see the techniques.
4. To make the result beautiful to look at.
Bondage was also used for torture during these periods, most often by tying the prisoner in the Ebizeme (prawn) position, and left for extended periods of time. If this failed, then the prisoner would have their hands bound behind their back and pulled up, and suspended this way, with weights added, this was called Tsurushi-zeme.
According to the earliest tradition of the Edo (1600-1868) period, there was a well-establisehd association between four colors (blue, red, white and black), the seasons, directions, and the four Chinese guards of the four directions (the dragon, the phoenix, the tiger and the tortoise).
The color of the rope changed with the season, and the prisoner was restrained facing the direction appropriate to the color and season. By the end of the Edo period, the colors had been reduced to two, white and indigo.
Hemp was used for the real ropes while silk was used for practice upon straw dummies.
Kinbaku is based on fairly specific rope patterns, many of them derived from Hojojutsu ties though significantly modified to make them safer for bondage use. Many Hojojutsu ties were deliberately designed to cause harm to a prisoner and are therefore not suitable for erotic bondage.
Of particular importance are the Ushiro Takatekote (a type of box tie which surrounds the chest and arms), which forms the basis of many Kinbaku ties, and the Ebi, or "Shrimp", which was originally designed as a torture tie and codified as part of the Edo period torture techniques. Today the tie is used as part of SM play and can be considered a form of Semenawa, torture rope.
Kinbaku A verb meaning "to bind tightly" and describing the sexual exchange between two people enjoying a session of Japanese rope play. Specifically noted by the use of natural fibers such as jute, usually single colored rope, 5-7 mm diameter rope, about 7-8 meters long and finished in a single knot.
There is a focus on functionality of the bondage using weaves rather than knots and the rigger actively targets erogenous zones. The lack of knots refers to Hojojutsu customs. While the terms Shibari and Kinbaku can be used almost synonymously, Kinbaku often refers to more sexually explicit rope scenes. sually the word shibari will refer to the act of tying and the aesthetic aspects of it, while the word kinbaku adds emotional and physical aspects to this form of bondage
Kinbaku-Bi the beauty of tight binding shibari done in the traditional manner for an aesthetic / erotic effect.
Those that want to distinguish the terms say that shibari refers to purely artistic, aesthetic rope, whilst kinbaku refers to the artistic, connective, sensual, sexual practice as a whole
Sensei Teacher, Master, Doctor; he who has gone before.
Setting the process of tightening a knot
Shibararetai A bottom publicaly indicating his/her desire for bondage action.
Shibari Do / Shibari The act of the Japanese art of decoratively tying. May be rope or ribbons. Specifically refers to the art of tying and the study thereof. Not specifically bondage related. In bondage use, natural or natural looking fibers are preferred. Colored ropes and knots are acceptable as the aesthetic of the tie is the tantamount goal.
Japanese for "to tie", in the BDSM community it refers to contemporary forms of Japanese Bondage. Though the history of Shibari cannot be traced definitively, it's thought to have originated with the Eastern Martial Arts form of Hojojutsu. It is consequently not surprising that common forms found in Shibari resemble stress positions such as a Strappado or hog tie. Many other forms are intended to expose or shame the rope bottom. Symmetry and deliberate asymmetry, as well as geometric patterns are a large part of the aesthetic of Shibari. However it should be noted that Shibari is not a type of decorative tying, though the aesthetic of a tie is important, the purpose of the tie is to restrain, immobilize and sometimes torture the bottom. Traditionally Shibari uses natural fiber rope, such as jute or hemp, that is roughly 5 - 7 millimeters in diameter and 8 meters long. Shibari utilizes very few knots and typically relies on hitches for the structure of the patterns.
Shibari Sensei A term invented in the western world to describe a Oriental rope master/artist.
Shibaritai A top indicating his/her desire for bondage action.
Modern eastern bondage (kinbaku) has its known origin with Ito Seiu (1882-1961), who replicated many ancient forms bondage for photographs. Eastern bondage has evolved into a sensual art form best characterized by:
1. Rendering the captive powerless.
2. Its aesthetic appeal, it must be beautiful.
3. Stillness, both of the body and of the spirit, the captive in kinbaku is willing and often taking a spiritual journey.
The word zuri is often added after another tie to reference being done while suspended
The word Shibari literally translates as "to tie."
Asanawa - hemp rope used in traditional Japanese Bondage. (asa = hemp, nawa = rope)
Bakushi - Rope Master
Dorei - Slave
JuJun - Submissive
Karada - means "body", refers to torso/body bondage
Kinbaku - The ancient Japanese Art of biding tightly with rope. It denotes a harsher form of restrain leading up the erotic forms, which would become known as "kinbaku-bi".
Kinbaku-bi - This word is from the late 19th century and describes the beauty and erotic aspects of rope bondage born from the ancient hojojutsu techniques of prisoner restraint. -bi means beautiful.
Nawashi - Rope Master
M-jo (m-o in case of a male sub) - This is the most widely accepted term in Japan today for the one captured in rope. Some just refer to themselves as a "model" - Most Japanese female rope captives think of themselves simply as "models".... or m-jo.
Seiza - correct sitting position. Kneeling, eyes closed, reflective of the lesson about to begin, or of the lesson just received.
Shibari - a modern term applied to the art of kinbaku. First usage has been traced to about the 1950's by some of the Japanese bondage magazines. Not generally used in
Japan.
Shibaritai - A bondage top indicating desire for bondage.
Shibararetai - A bondage bottom indicating desire for bondage.
Tsurinawa - suspension with rope
today performers are often referred to as Nawashi (rope master) or Bakushi (from kinbakushi, meaning bondage master).
Traditionalists believe the practice of Shibari can stimulate Ki energy flow and transfer. It’s also possible for the model to enter a trance-like state as their endorphins and other hormone levels increase. The term "rope drunk" has been used to describe the state of a model recovering from a Shibari session.
The person who ties, commonly known as the rigger, restrains his or her partner, known as the model, according to the emotional and physical reactions observed.
1/4 inch (6.4mm) is the most "authentic" size. This is the size rope that you'll see in most Japanese Rope Bondage photographs, where it's usually doubled for extra strain relief. It bites a bit more than the larger sizes, and provides that wonderful sensation of being tightly held, but isn't small enough to cause damage. For captives with petite builds, the narrow rope nicely compliments their natural shape.
Hemp rope is the most authentic; this is what rope in the Orient was usually made out of, a thousand years ago. Because it is formed out of twisted plant fibers, new hemp rope is highly abrasive, and strongly discourages struggling. After hemp has been laundered several times it becomes much softer, more akin to cotton. Sometimes jute or linen are used and are generally around 6 mm in diameter, but sometimes as small as 4 mm, and between 7 – 8 m long). In Japanese, this natural-fibre rope is known as asanawa; the Japanese vocabulary does not make a distinction between hemp and jute. In Japan the most often used type of rope is a loose laid, three strand rope.
The natural fibers easily lock to each other which means the bondage can be held together by the friction of twists and turns or very simple knots. Traditionally, multiple 6-8 meter lengths are used
Sisal is a modern equivalent to hemp; it's like a thick twine, and is highly abrasive. And laundering it won't help.
Moving hemp or Sisal over the skin -- even a little bit -- produces an uncomfortable feeling of "burn". Move it a little more, and you quickly get skin abrasions as a warning to stop moving now. Continue moving beyond that, and it becomes damaging and intensely painful. Considering the military origins of Japanese Rope Bondage, where the goal was to immobilize a prisoner, rough fibers like these were a good choice. If you wish to do a scene where you teach your captive to remain totally still, instead of permitting/encouraging them to struggle helplessly, this is the type of rope to use.
Traditional Japanese-style ropes are the light brown of new hemp or the tan/grey of laundered hemp, while modern Japanese-style ropes are the bright white of nylon
If you want the authentic helplessness of the Japanese style, without the agony of raw hemp, then it's 1/4" braided nylon you want.
Finishing raw hemp rope is a process that takes a fair amount of time to do correctly. First, the hemp is boiled and carefully dried, stretched to pull the kinks from the boiling out, then the stray strands are singed. Finally, mink or mineral oil (human consumption grade) is worked into the fibers.
After completing the process you have a piece of rope that feels very similar to a sensual, although scratchy, Shetland wool sweater when it rubs across the skin. For softer rope, you can boil and dry it several times, though with each boiling, the rope is weakened so there is a careful balance to be mindful of. Hemp tolerates water more than jute does so it’s easier to keep clean. Hemp fibers are much longer and durable, therefore the load bearing capacity is higher.
Hemp ropes have high breaking strength, a single 6mm rope can support up to 230 kilograms (507 lbs) of weight. Their colour gets more golden with treatment (burning, oiling). A bit heavier than jute but still soft and pliable, the dense shape and sharp details make this rope photograph beautifully. Hemp has a history of being used in all sorts of craftsmanship - it even inspired Japanese artforms, the hemp leaves appearing as geometric patterns called “asanoha” in textiles and paintings. The Japanese term “asanawa” does not make a distinction between hemp or jute rope either.
Factory processed jute fibers require various treatments of JBO (jute batching oil) to make them more pliable for industrial use and while it is relatively easy to get a hold of nice looking ropes this way, they tend to smell of petroleum that can only be eliminated by washing/baking the rope multiple times. A study suggests that JBO is highly carcinogenic! Many people who experience allergies when in contact with jute might actually just be sensitive to this compound. It is possible to get a hold of untreated jute but it's very expensive and also more fragile.
Hemp is either derived from industrial cannabis, i.e. negligible THC, or linen (flax). Finished hemp rope has the perfect balance of textures, being both rough and soft, with a pleasant, grassy aroma. Hemp rope doesn't stretch like braided nylon or polypropylene and it holds a knot remarkably well. It also has a lower tendency to produce "rope burn" than synthetic ropes.
8mm and 6mm rope is great for general bodywork such as torso harnesses, pelvic harnesses, breast bondage, and ankle or wrist cuffs. Good working standard lengths are the 25 feet for torso/pelvic work and 12.5 ft lengths for wrist or ankle cuffs.
Jute is not as strong but it is lighter, which means it handles differently to hemp. Hemp has a certain amount of heft, whereas jute is more ‘flickable’. Hemp has a bit more drag when tying. Jute tends to polish up with use. Using carabiners instead of large diameter wooden or metal rings will extend the life of ropes, because they rub less against each other and the support lines can be separated - so choose whichever rope suits your style best and keep an eye on wear and tear at all times.
‘I am hyperactive with a very fast brain, but due to the intense connection and slow build up and removal of rope, shibari allows me to be mentally still.
‘I love the beauty of it and how the women look so feminine
There is no point in fighting bonds if you are stuck – there comes a time when you need to accept it and simply ‘be’.
Many people think of it as secretaries bound to office chairs with nylon rope or hogtied housewives on kitchen floors – this is very different. I’d describe it as aerial tango, done with flow and passion. When people put their heart and soul into it – well, I’ve seen people in tears after being tied. They say, ‘I’ve no idea why I’m crying, I’m just so happy.’ It unblocks some emotional dam.”
Some people say it has a meditative effect,” he says. “It silences the chatter of the everyday.”
Always keep a pair of safety shears in your rope bag
‘Never tie into the crease of a joint as this can cause circulation problems.
‘Never leave a tied person alone ‘
Always use proper rope, never twine, washing line or anything too thin.’
Visually, the tight ropes and their texture provide a counterpoint to smooth skin and curves. The hard edges of the rope reinforce the softness of the body's graceful shape: the model is like a canvas, and the rope is paint and brush. This contrast is even emphasized by the use of Junoesque models, whose generous curves are squeezed by the ropes to create more pronounced shapes and shadows.
Shibari is a combination of bondage effects as most of us know them (power, helplessness), but also beauty and aesthetics (it can be compared to Japanese Ikebana, the 700 year-old Japanese art of flower arranging). The intense massage by the ropes and knots is very similar to acupuncture techniques and Shiatsu (a form of Japanese massage).
The art of arranging ropes and knots on the model’s body according to a strict sense of aesthetics reflects the cultural heritage of Ikebana, which emphasizes characteristics like sensuality, vulnerability, and strength. On the other hand, Shibari is simply a static monument.
The concept of positioning knots to stimulate pressure points on the body is derived from Shiatsu. The skilled Nawashi uses his knowledge of massage and pressure points to get those thick knots in just the right places. There are crossover influences and effects between Shibari and the traditional Asian medical philosophy of Ki-energy, meridians and Trusbo (pressure points), used in Shiatsu and other Bokam (traditional oriental medicine) techniques.
There are three schools or types of shibari or Ryu.
• Newaza - floor techniques involving the caressing style created by Yukimura Haruki - to connect emotionally with your partner. Basic skills and more advanced ties can be practiced while doing this type of bondage. Setting the mood and atmosphere is just as important as being proficient in shibari itself - it is up close, and personal. Other BDSM plays can be incorporated.
• Tsurinawa - rope suspension. Considered to be the most advanced, difficult and dangerous school of shibari. One requires accurate knowledge of the human body and also physics to practice suspension safely. Poses can be comfortable and functional but also very challenging and sometimes painful. Usually people tend to only stay in suspension for short intervals.
• Kazari Nawa - using leftover rope in bondage in a way that is both practical and pleasing to the eye. If one is using the traditional 7-8m length ropes, ties will always end with some of them left unused. Instead of letting them hang loose, they can be incorporated to form intricate patterns, showing off a personalized style.
The goal of a shibari session can usually fit into one of these categories - of course every play session is different, but as with BDSM one can distinguish between psychological dominance/submission and sadomasochism and choose whichever is appropriate for the current mood of the model and rigger.
• Shuuchinawa - tying to achieve sexual shame (psychological effect) in the model. Exposing naked body parts, putting the model in intentionally uncomfortable and embarrassing positions are examples.
• Semenawa - "torture rope", using bondage as means to exert pain and discomfort. This can be achieved via the positions themselves or different types of ropes that are rougher on the skin, for example coconut or sisal. Water bondage is a form of semenawa that is also quite dangerous, as natural rope tightens when wet.
• Muganawa - to tie in a selfless way that shows the model's true potential and beauty without enforcing your will or dominance over them, carefully observing the ambiance of the situation and letting it guide the ropes. The energy exchange between rope partners is very important. The rigger must accurately gauge the mood of the person being tied and create rope art accordingly, skillfully using both visual and physical elements of shibari to be able to reach a meditative state of mind.
RISKS AND DANGERS
First of all, the most important part of any sort of bondage play is mutual consent. It is absolutely necessary to have clear, open communication between partners to be able to play safe. This especially applies to shibari, as in itself even the simplest tie can be dangerous.
• Loss of circulation - for very obvious reasons one must avoid putting rope over joints and major blood vessels. Cutting off blood flow to sensitive areas such as the hands can cause irreversible damage. Keep an eye on limbs turning purple - to some extent it can be a normal reaction to any restrictive rope work, though. Constantly checking in with the model will help gauge whether to loosen a tie or not. A gradually appearing tingly sensation can be a good indicator for example.
• Nerve damage - too much pressure on nerve endings over certain parts of the body cause a different type of tingly feeling than restricted blood flow. The radial nerve in the upper arm/wrist is the most affected and problematic area, especially if doing suspensions starting off with a box tie. It is best to interrupt play and untie the model if they report any sort of weird numbness and loss of feeling in fingers or other body parts.
• Equipment failure - using any sort of natural material for ropework will carry risks, as the load bearing measurements are always an estimate. Ropes tend to break less often - knots and ties slipping can be more problematic. Always test your hardpoints before beginning any sort of suspension and check your ropes for wear and tear at all times. You can maximize safety by placing a mat below the point from which you are going to suspend someone. Work in both yours and the model's limits to be on the safe side. Partial suspensions can be just as enjoyable and beautiful, with less risk involved.
Knots in Shibari
Shibari generally is done with mostly all hitches. It’s actually based more on frictions than true knots for historic reasons.
A knot usually happens only at the beginning to secure the rope to a limb and at the end to not let it all unravel easily.
Reverse tension or 'frictions' is what we call it when you change directions in the rope and the tension holds the rope in place. Frictions aren't traditional knots where you are looping and tying rather, it’s wrapping and using counter tension. For instance, you can have a forward tension single column tie (the rope is wrapped in one direction around the wrist and then locked off) or a reverse tension single column tie (the rope is wrapped one direction and then back the other way around a thigh, before being locked off).
You can honestly get away with only knowing a granny knot (hon musubi) to do kinbaku and that is less of a knot and more of a friction (again, it’s the friction that keeps it solid)
The Garden Glossary http://thebdsmgarden.com/efiction/viewpage.php?page=BGlossary has a fairly extensive list of shibari ties and goes over rope and knots.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Japanese_bondage has a good list of shibari ties, some have links to more information.
Check these guys out http://www.knottyboys.com/code/downloads.php they'll teach you alot. All the videos are free to download. Specifically the "harnesses and other ties" section look at the corselet harness video it'll show you a hitching technique you can literally use anywhere on the body
