Essential safety information for practicing shibari and rope bondage
Important Disclaimer: Shibari and rope bondage carry inherent risks of serious injury. These guidelines are educational only and do not replace proper instruction from experienced practitioners. Always seek hands-on training and never practice alone until you are experienced.
Fundamental Safety Principles
SSC - Safe, Sane, Consensual
All activities must be conducted with proper safety measures, sound judgment, and explicit consent from all parties.
RACK - Risk Aware Consensual Kink
Acknowledge that risks exist, understand them fully, and make informed decisions about acceptable risk levels.
Never practice alone until you are very experienced
Start slowly and gradually build complexity and intensity
Continuous education - always keep learning and improving
Respect limits - both yours and your partner's
Communication & Consent
Before You Begin
Discuss experience levels, medical conditions, and physical limitations
Establish safe words (e.g., "Yellow" for slow down, "Red" for immediate stop)
Agree on what activities are and aren't acceptable
Plan for aftercare and emotional support
Ensure both parties are sober and in the right mindset
During Practice
Check in regularly - "How are you feeling?"
Watch for non-verbal cues of distress
Monitor circulation and nerve function
Be prepared to stop immediately if needed
Physical Safety & Risk Areas
High-Risk Areas to Avoid
Neck and throat - risk of strangulation, nerve damage
Behind/under arms - major nerve bundles
Wrists and ankles - delicate nerves and circulation
Lower back/kidneys - organ damage risk
Joints under stress - shoulders, knees, elbows
Warning Signs to Watch For
Numbness, tingling, or loss of sensation
Color changes (blue, white, or pale skin)
Difficulty breathing or speaking
Severe pain or sudden onset of pain
Dizziness, nausea, or disorientation
Loss of consciousness
Equipment & Materials
Recommended Rope Specifications
Material: Natural fiber (jute, hemp) or quality synthetic
Diameter: 6-8mm for most applications
Length: 8-10 meter pieces for most ties
Condition: Inspect regularly for fraying, weakness, or damage
Essential Safety Equipment
Safety shears/EMT scissors - for emergency rope cutting
First aid kit - bandages, ice packs, pain relief
Communication device - phone for emergency services
Blankets/warm clothing - for shock or temperature drops
Emergency Procedures
If Problems Occur
Stop immediately - don't try to "power through"
Remove ropes quickly but safely - cut if necessary
Check circulation and sensation - massage gently if needed
Monitor the person - watch for delayed reactions
Seek medical help if symptoms persist or worsen
When to Call Emergency Services
Loss of consciousness
Difficulty breathing
Severe or persistent pain
Loss of sensation that doesn't return quickly
Any injury you're unsure about
Aftercare
Aftercare is crucial for both physical and emotional well-being:
Check for marks, bruises, or areas of concern
Provide warmth, hydration, and comfort
Allow time for emotional processing
Follow up in the hours/days following to ensure well-being
Learn from each experience to improve safety
Medical Considerations
Conditions Requiring Extra Caution
Heart conditions or blood pressure issues
Diabetes or circulation problems
Previous injuries to areas being tied
Pregnancy
Mental health conditions that affect judgment
Use of medications that affect sensation or judgment
Always consult with healthcare providers if you have medical conditions that might affect your safety during rope activities.
Education & Training
Proper education is essential for safe practice:
Seek instruction from experienced, reputable teachers
Practice basic ties extensively before progressing
Attend workshops and classes when possible
Study anatomy and understand the risks
Connect with the local community for support and learning
Never rely solely on online tutorials for learning
Legal Considerations
Be aware of legal implications:
Laws vary by jurisdiction regarding consensual activities
Consent may not be a legal defense for serious injury
Consider liability and insurance implications
Understand age of consent laws in your area
Be discreet and respectful of others' privacy
Remember: These guidelines are a starting point, not comprehensive training. Seek hands-on instruction, practice regularly, and always prioritize safety over aesthetics or complexity. When in doubt, don't proceed.