Trapped in a straitjacket, free to fly
“Trapped in a straitjacket, free to fly” was written for BDSMforyou.nl by Mistress Moriah.
A straitjacket (also known as a "straight jacket") is actually intended as a tool for psychiatry. It is a garment with long sleeves that are tied together at the back. This makes it impossible for the wearer to move their arms. The aim is to prevent patients from harming themselves or others. By now, however, the straitjacket is more than that... this special garment has also been embraced within the BDSM scene. Why is that, actually?
The answer is actually very simple. It is an easy, quick way to immobilise someone. Although it is a different physical position, the effect is not that different from bondage or a bodybag.
Why do people enjoy this?
Actually for the same reason that people can also enjoy lying in a bodybag or being in bondage. At that moment you can't do anything, so you don't have to do anything at all either. It brings peace and silence to your head. For a while the world may stop spinning, at least the world in your head. And that can be damn pleasant. It is experienced as pure relaxation. It is a mix of the feeling of surrender and trust in the partner who has control. Besides, playing with power and powerlessness can add an exciting dimension to intimate interactions.
What does a straitjacket do to you mentally?
Mentally, wearing a straitjacket can lead to a state known as 'subspace'. This is a kind of trance-like state in which the sub experiences a heightened sense of euphoria and relaxation. It is comparable to the 'runner's high' that athletes sometimes feel, but without the sweating and with more buckles. This experience can be therapeutic, reduce stress and offer a sense of mental clarity.
The straitjacket is available in various versions. Traditionally it is made of fabric, white in colour, with long sleeves and an open back. It reaches from the neck to roughly the knees and in shape it can be compared to a T-shirt. But there are also versions in leather or PU leather, with or without an extra kinky touch. My little schlemiel loves it. And so do I, because at a party I simply park him somewhere by a wall for a while, wearing his straitjacket and a mask over his head. That way I don't have to worry about him for a bit, and I have my hands free for other fun things.
Mistress Moriah
Additional information
Time in a BDSM experience – an illusion, an enemy and a gift
The power of silence, what impact does it have?
Finding peace in bondage
Restricted by the armbinder harness with cuffs
Cocooning, your sub safely wrapped up
Finding your peace in the bodybag
The intense experience of cling film bondage
Source
Text & photography: Mistress Moriah