Shibari the Japanese art of knot tying

Shibari is a Japanese art of knot tying; Shibari is the Western version of Kinbaku, which was initially derived from Hojōjutsu. Hojōjutsu is known as the art of binding a prisoner of war which forms part of the traditional martial art of restraining a person; it was used by the Japanese as ancient handcuffs.

What is Shibari?

Shibari is the modern practice of tying people with rope, and it is a form of self-care with an artistic element. However, Shibari is not a sexual act; it can however create sexual arousal.

So with Shibari, you have a Rigger or Rope Top; this is the person who will be tying the other up, the Rope bottom/ Rope model or Rope bunny will be tied up during the scene, and often several couples will practice Shibari together. Riggers and Rope bunnies aren’t always in a relationship, as extensive research and knowledge is required when practicing Shibari, which can take several years to get to the point where you can practice with a partner.

If you are a rope bunny interested in Shibari, you will need to attend classes and volunteer as a rope bunny or model. There are many resources available for Shibari enthusiasts.

Shibari requires a lot of trust between both partners, and both partners should always agree upon a safe word. A rope bunny will often go into subspace during a Shibari scene. The Rigger must understand the Rope Bunnies’ body language and constantly check in on their partner, ensuring that there is no extreme blood flow restriction to specific body parts. An experienced Rigger can tell by the color of the skin if the knots are too tight.

However, the rope bunny may experience pain during a scene; it is considered a cathartic type of pain that many people enjoy. I have heard of people describing Shibari as a way to get comfortable in uncomfortable situations, and they believe it has helped them during difficult life experiences. Many people practice solo or self-tying as a form of self-care and meditation.

The are many sensations and emotions you will experience with Shibari; you will become very mindful during a scene. You become aware of all the sensations in your body as different ties create different sensations and a little pain or discomfort. As mentioned before, you learn to become comfortable in discomfort. You will also experience an intense emotional bond with your partner during a scene as the endorphins start to rush through your body.

Trust and communication is significant in every relationship, and if your practice Shaibarir together as a couple, your connection will get better and stronger over time.

Shibari is the modern practice of tying people with rope, and it is a form of self-care with an artistic element. However, Shibari is not a sexual act; it can however create sexual arousal.