What is Shibari?

Shibari, the Japanese Art of tying the human body with rope, transcends mere physical restraint. It's a profound exploration—a dance between connection and discovery. In its intricate knots and suspensions lies a gateway to self-awareness and empowerment, a journey that delves into the depths of our polarity—feminine and masculine, surrender and control. This exploration illuminates the dynamics within ourselves, our relationships, and the world around us.

In this art, ropes cease to be mere bindings; they become conduits of introspection, channels through which we explore not just the physical form but the emotional landscape within. Shibari, to me, is a profound dialogue—a language of knots and ties that speaks volumes about the human spirit and our connections with ourselves and others.

Shibari, meaning 'to tie' in Japanese, embodies an ancient artistic form of rope bondage. Its roots lie in Hojo-jutsu, the martial art of restraining captives. Evolving from imprisonment techniques practiced by Samurai warriors during the Edo period from 1400 to 1700.  The ties used to restrain prisoners also would indicate the severity of the crime committed as well as the social status of the prisoner.  In this way, the exposure when taken publicly before others provided an additional layer of emotional punishment through shame and humiliation.  Choosing positions like arms tied behind the head, with the armpits exposed is considered shameful in Japanese culture.  In the late 1800’s, Shibari transformed into Kinbaku, an erotic art form, which was alive and flourishing in the underground scene, hidden from the Japanese public.

Shibari is a multi-dimensional modality, art, and practice that has a variety of avenues, desires, and reasons why people choose to enter it.  Shibari, the binding of ropes on the body, communicates with the Soma. The "Soma" refers to the totality of the human body, encompassing not just the physical form but also the emotional, psychological, and energetic aspects. It's a term often used to emphasize the body as a vessel for experiences, memories, emotions, and traumas. While acknowledging its interconnectedness with the mind and spirit. As the rope creates tension, restriction, contortions with the body, the participant willingly sinks into them, the body begins to experience a multitude of emotions including: joy, bliss, anxiety, fear, uncertainty, sadness, anger.  In this unique surrender, relinquishing control to the gaze of another.  A conversation sparks between the body's experience and the brain's regulatory system, where endorphins, oxytocin, dopamine, serotonin, cortisol and adrenaline are released into the body in  response to the bottom's journey. Each one attributing an altered body experience.

For many, being ensnared within the ropes offers a profound release—a moment of embodied presence, a respite from responsibilities, a sacred space to listen to one's own inner rhythms, to feel deeply, to surrender wholly, and to experience the tactile symphony upon the skin. It transforms into a meditation, a dance in a parallel universe, a realm distinct from the ordinary, offering interactions and intimacy that transcend the mundane.

Some venture into the realm of ropes seeking a unique form of intimacy and sensuality, forging connections with their eros. Here, breath, movement, and sensations traverse their being, inducing states of profound bliss and deep relaxation.

Aesthetically, the allure of ropes is undeniable, captivating in their exquisite display. The sight of the body encased in meticulously arranged bindings accentuates its contours—its curves, bones, and flesh—an artistic masterpiece that resonates deeply, drawing one into its mesmerizing embrace.

During intentional explorations and rituals, being bound in ropes becomes a sanctuary for healing—a sacred ground to bring forth fears, emotions, barriers, pains, and desires; a space that embraces the entirety of one's being, every living facet. Here, within the spectrum of sensations that speak to the body, lies the power to unveil what lies beneath the surface. It's a haven where one is held, seen, supported, and guided through the passage, held tenderly as they traverse the journey to the unknown threshold.