What is binding? And is it harmful?

“What is binding? And is it harmful?” was written for BDSMforyou.nl by Mistress Moriah.

You might know exactly what the term “binding” means, but you might also have absolutely no idea. I’d be happy to explain it to you. Because imagine you confidently say you’d like to try this, but it actually turns out to be an absolute no-go. For example, CB and CBT are often confused, and believe me, that’s really not helpful. That’s why I’m providing a brief explanation of what “bondage” means. In this case, for instance, it’s one of the many possibilities of CBT. My absolute favorite. But there’s certainly more…

Genitals

Of course, any body part can be tied off, but usually when people say “tying off,” they mean tying off the genitals or the breasts. In the case of a male sub, this refers to the penis and testicles. This causes the skin to swell, which can be experienced as arousing. The tied-up body part feels different. You can play around a bit with the tying, because if you tie up a flaccid penis, getting an erection becomes difficult. If you tie up a stiff penis, the erection is often prolonged. It just depends on what you want, of course. Or rather, what you’re in the mood for.

For women, by the way, the breasts are ideal for this (provided there are no implants). For the breasts, it’s best to choose a thick, supple rope that isn’t tied too tightly. The tighter the bondage, the shorter you can leave it on. Large breasts also require a bit more care, as they contain a lot of fatty tissue. Adipose tissue isn’t well supplied with blood, making it more prone to necrosis.

Can you tie off body parts without risk?

No. It is therefore important to monitor health, as tying off body parts is not entirely without risk. Limbs can be tied off for a bit longer (under favorable conditions) without permanent damage, but this is different for the penis and breasts. These body parts, in particular, are less tolerant of constriction. In the breasts, tissue damage can even occur, and in penises, the erectile tissue can be damaged. Therefore, it’s best not to constrict breasts and penises for longer than fifteen minutes. Also be careful with people who have diabetes and thrombosis. They are at increased risk. You can certainly make your sub suffer and endure hardships, but he or she doesn’t have to be harmed.

Make sure no nerves are pinched. That’s even more harmful than blocking blood circulation. It’s important to know where the nerves run and to keep a close eye on the body’s signals (numbness, tingling, loss of sensation, discoloration, and limited mobility).

What’s fun about tying up?

First of all, a tied-up cock and balls look better than seeing that little trunk hanging so awkwardly between his legs. It’s just a silly sight, let’s say. But there’s an extra fun bonus at the end, when you remove the rope. Because if you – by pulling on the rope – remove it quickly, you get a “helicopter effect,” that is, a spinning cock. That’s not only a fun sight, but it’s also painful this way. Chances are this won’t happen in silence.

And that moaning and groaning is, of course, wonderful to hear! Uh… that’s a personal note.

More information

The Power of Powerlessness
The history of shibari
Rope for bondage – which one should you choose?
Bondage – Theme page

Source

Text & image: Mistress Moriah