What is shibari in a few words?
The Japanese erotic art of shibari (or kinbaku) is based on the martial art “hojojutsu” (techniques of apprehending captives with rope), that has been used in Japan from the year 1603 to 1868. After the years passed, these techniques died out and since the beginning of the 20th century they find a new application in the new erotic art, based on the partnership and teamwork between two people (most often man and a woman) and the combination of the delicate female body and the rough ropes. Based on mutual respect and consent the rigger (the one doing the tying) creates a statue of a kind using the female figure – a statue that displays gentleness, femininity and helplessness. The man doesn’t abuse, nor does he harm his partner. His work is a gift for the woman that allows her to release control over her body and to enjoy the sensations and emotions that take over her.
More important than the final result (the end position) is the path both partners walk on. They trust each other completely and the woman can devote herself in the man’s hands completely. She can relax and stop thinking about the stereotypes that society has enforced on her. The process of releasing control provokes powerful emotions that could have a person feeling like they have endured an intensive massage – relieved from the accumulated stress and feeling more affectionate towards their partner.
In the last 20-30 years the shibari culture has become popular worldwide. Many people in Japan, Russia, USA, UK, etc. enjoy this art either as viewers, or as participants. Shibari is still vaguely known in Bulgaria, although in the recent years there have have been a few TV shows and newspaper articles that have boosted the public interest in it. You can see those shows at the end of this article. Our goal with BDSM.bg is to help the people who are interested in shibari to widen their perspective about this art and BDSM form and to understand it’s value – whether looked upon as an art form, hobby or the Japanese way of doing BDSM. Ever more Bulgarians start practicing some part of shibari in their private life and for that reason our main goal is to offer simple and thorough information how to practice shibari safely and to have the maximum amount of fun without hurting their partner.
Should you decide you wish to learn more about shibari, you will be convinced that a person could enrich their spirituality, sexuality and sense of aesthetics through the art of erotic bondage. In a specially made section for shibari on BDSM.bg you can find additional information about the culture, the relations, the vision, the feelings and other aspects of shibari. We have a picture gallery and videos. You can see many more galleries with photos and videos from a variety of performers from all over the world.