By Maddy Hayes

Shibari is more than knots and rope—it’s a language of connection, intention, and intense trust. As practitioners progress beyond foundational ties, the demands of rigging shift from simple execution to a nuanced dance of anatomy, physics, and deep interpersonal dynamics. Advanced Shibari rigging isn’t just about aesthetics or suspension—it’s about responsibility.

In this article, we explore the technical intricacies and critical safety considerations of advanced Shibari, ensuring your journey into more complex rope work remains both breathtaking and safe.

1. Advanced Anatomy Awareness

At the heart of every secure and ethical rig is an in-depth understanding of human anatomy.

Nerve Pathways

• Radial nerve (upper arm) and peroneal nerve (behind the knee) are especially vulnerable in advanced ties like TKs (Takate Kote) and futomomos.
• Learn to recognize early signs of nerve compression: tingling, numbness, or loss of control.
• Nerve injuries can occur without circulation loss, so color and temperature are not reliable indicators.

Circulatory Considerations

• Suspensions increase the risk of blood flow restriction. Know the signs of vascular compression: mottled skin, cold extremities, and delayed capillary refill.
• Regularly check pulse points (radial, dorsalis pedis) during long sessions.

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By Maddy Hayes, Psychosexual Studies Specialist

Abstract

BDSM—an acronym for Bondage & Discipline, Dominance & Submission, and Sadism & Masochism—remains a complex and often misunderstood constellation of sexual and relational practices. While once pathologized, BDSM is increasingly recognized within psychological literature as a valid expression of human sexuality. This article explores the psychological effects of consensual BDSM from clinical, cognitive, and neurobiological perspectives, highlighting its potential to foster emotional intimacy, regulate stress, and enhance identity integration.

Introduction

Historically stigmatized, BDSM was long considered indicative of psychopathology. Early editions of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) pathologized BDSM-related behaviors as paraphilias. However, revisions in the DSM-5 acknowledged the distinction between atypical sexual interests and clinical disorders, contingent on distress or harm. This paradigmatic shift invites a deeper psychological exploration of BDSM’s emotional, cognitive, and neurobiological implications—particularly when practiced consensually.

1. Consent, Agency, and Cognitive Reframing

Informed Consent as Psychological Grounding

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When people talk about altered psychological states in BDSM, much of the discourse centers on subspace—that intoxicating blend of endorphins, vulnerability, and surrender experienced by many submissives. Yet its counterpart, Domspace, is just as real, just as potent, and just as critical to the emotional and psychological dynamics of a power exchange scene. Still, it’s often less discussed, sometimes even misunderstood, even within seasoned communities.

Let’s explore Domspace not as a mirror to subspace, but as a unique, powerful psychological state with its own triggers, benefits, and risks.

What Is Domspace?

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In recent years, BDSM has emerged from the shadows and into the cultural mainstream, shedding outdated taboos and gaining recognition not only as a valid form of sexual expression but also as a potential contributor to emotional and mental well-being. But what are the real effects of BDSM on mental health?

At Wickedly Woven, where we celebrate conscious kink and the art of connection, we believe it’s important to explore how kink—especially practices like bondage, dominance and submission, impact play, and roleplay—can affect the psyche. Let’s dive into the mental health implications of BDSM, both the healing potential and the cautions.

1. Empowerment Through Consent and Control

One of the core principles of BDSM is consensual power exchange. Whether someone takes on a dominant or submissive role, the interaction is grounded in negotiation, boundaries, and mutual trust. For many, this experience can be incredibly empowering.

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