Suspension in shibari is a highly advanced and artistic form of rope bondage that requires a deep understanding of techniques, body mechanics, and safety considerations. This guide will walk you through the essentials for safe, elegant suspensions, ensuring that both riggers and models experience the beauty and connection of this art form without compromising safety.
1. Master the Basics First
Before attempting suspension, ensure you have a solid foundation in floor-based ties. This includes mastering core knots like the single column tie, double column tie, and chest harnesses such as the Takate Kote. Suspension builds on these foundational ties, and any weakness in the basics could lead to dangerous situations in mid-air.
2. Use the Right Suspension Equipment
Rope Type: Use high-quality, natural fiber ropes like jute or hemp, as they provide the right balance between flexibility, grip, and weight distribution. Jute is especially preferred due to its lightness and texture.
Suspension Rings & Carabiners: Invest in a sturdy suspension ring and climbing-grade carabiners. These tools will hold significant weight and need to be safe for dynamic loads.
Anchoring Points: Ensure that your suspension point (ceiling, beam, or frame) is tested for weight limits and designed to hold both the model and the forces of suspension movement.
3. Understand Body Mechanics and Anatomy
Suspension can put a lot of strain on the body. It’s crucial to understand the body’s anatomy, particularly the location of nerves and joints. Here are some areas to be mindful of:
Nerve Pathways: Pay attention to areas like the wrists, upper arms, and thighs, where nerve compression is common. Avoid placing knots directly over these areas to minimize the risk of numbness or injury.
Weight Distribution: When tying a suspension, distribute the model’s weight across multiple points (hips, thighs, chest) to reduce strain on any single part of the body.
Flexibility and Limits: Every person’s body is different. Check in with your model about their flexibility and limitations to ensure their comfort throughout the process.
4. Communicate and Monitor Throughout the Session
Clear, ongoing communication is essential during suspension. Before starting, discuss signals or safe words the model can use if they are uncomfortable or need the suspension to stop. Check in regularly during the suspension, as the model’s experience can change quickly based on circulation, nerve sensitivity, and muscle strain.
5. Be Prepared for Emergencies
Always have safety shears on hand, designed specifically for cutting rope in case of an emergency. Suspension introduces a higher level of risk, so being able to get the model down quickly and safely is paramount. Practice cutting through ropes quickly and efficiently in non-emergency situations to ensure you’re prepared.
6. Work With a Spotter
Especially when starting with suspension, having a spotter present is beneficial. A spotter can help monitor the model’s condition, assist with lowering the model, and provide an extra set of hands to adjust knots and lines.
7. Use a Slow, Controlled Approach
Suspension should always be done slowly and deliberately. Avoid quick, jerky movements that could stress the rope or cause discomfort to the model. When lifting or lowering, do so gradually, allowing the model’s body to adjust and the ropes to settle into place.
8. Respect Your Model's Physical and Mental Boundaries
Suspension can be a mentally and physically intense experience for the model. Ensure you respect their boundaries and limits, allowing them to feel comfortable in communicating any discomfort or concerns. This trust is key to a successful and enjoyable suspension session.
9. Practice and Educate Yourself Constantly
Shibari suspension is a skill that takes years to perfect. Continuously educate yourself through classes, workshops, and collaboration with experienced riggers. Bound by Elegance offers private 1-on-1 courses from beginner to advanced levels, including in-depth suspension training. Consider enrolling in these to refine your skills under professional guidance.
10. Stay Aware of Legal and Ethical Considerations
Rope suspension, especially in public or semi-public settings, can have legal implications. Always ensure that both the rigger and model have given clear, informed consent and that you are in a space where this practice is accepted.
By following these best practices, you can ensure that suspension remains a safe, graceful, and deeply rewarding part of your shibari journey. At Bound by Elegance, we believe in crafting elegance in every knot, and that philosophy extends to every suspension tie you create.
For more detailed lessons, virtual workshops, or private instruction, visit our Online Learning section to elevate your skills to new heights. 🌸
Kommentare