How-To: Your Guide to BDSM
Thanks to 50 Shades of Gray, the decades-old art of BDSM has become mainstream. So it would be safe to say that you have at least heard the term, but what does it actually stand for and what does it mean?
Let’s start with each of the letters in a weird little alphabet game. B is for Bondage, D is for Domination and Submission, S is for Sadism, and M is for Masochism. See below for a little further explanation:
Bondage involves the whips and chains that you see when you think of the term. Your friends here at Voodoo are here to help with this part with our lines of ropes to help you start or continue your bondage journey. This also involves practicing the art of discipline where you can use psychological restraint or use of physical punishment such as whipping.
Domination and Submission really play on the mental aspect of BDSM. This is where one person takes the control (the “dom”) in the BDSM relationship and another person relinquishes control (the “sub”). Yes, there are contracts actually written and signed describing each person’s role but they are not legally binding.
Sadism involves the pleasure one person derives from inflicting pain upon their partner.
Masochism involves the opposite of sadism. One person gains pleasure from being hurt although the two are not mutually exclusive.
Two final notes before we leave you to your own devices.
CONSENT IS KEY. This is very important. Make sure all parties involved are on the same page regarding roles, tools, toys, what is involved, who is involved and how they are involved. Also, create a safe word and make sure it’s known.
DO YOUR RESEARCH. This may be a whole new world for you, but like everything else that involves physical activity, make sure you research. The internet has some great resources. If you’re comfortable, talk to your friends and learn about their potential experiences.
Happy Vibin!