Shu (守): Obey the traditional wisdom, learning fundamentals, and techniques
Complete beginners start with learning the basics (Kihon, 基本) – the fundamentals of Shibari/Kinbaku: general technical and non-technical principles, as well as simple but effective patterns, including first harnesses for the upper body and legs. Above all, they learn to apply these patterns to create a shared experience in their erotic play. Right from the beginning, we address both partners who take active, albeit different, roles. On the bottom’s side, we introduce the foundational skills of placing attention to the body and strengthening your core. We will emphasize movement, control, as well as (non-verbal) communication, emotional and physical limits, as well as intention-based consent.
On the next level, we lay out the form (Kata, 型 or 形) – the basic exercises and practices to learn Kinbaku.
In EARTH, both partners are laying down the fundament for a more challenging, erotic bondage. The riggers build on the fundamentals and apply the learned techniques and principles – creating harnesses and impactful positions. The bottoms need to practice patience most of all whilst the riggers practice and master basic techniques.
Then on the WATER level, both partners need to become more flexible and adaptable, when adding gravity and dealing with the iconic suspensions and progressions. Riggers learn how to manage ropes and the body safely and effectively, even in challenging situations. For Bottoms, the topics are placement of attention and communication.
After passing through these three stages, the students understand – and embody – the basic form. They can tie effectively and execute the standard figures in semi- or full suspensions safely and sustainable for their partner. Rope Bottoms have the tools to allow higher impact into their bodies as well as are enabled to feel and communicate their limits.
That’s the standard, obvious, on the surface: “Omote”. There is not yet any place for the student’s own creativity – nor any innovation (other than the didactics) from our end. But we insist – as the traditional Japanese teaching systems do – that this standard is the basis for all creative adaptations that follow. Without the basis – there is no creation.
Ha (破) – detachment and breaking with the traditional forms to find new approaches to Kinbaku
When the fundamentals and basic forms, shapes, or positions are understood and embodied – we can detach from them to unleash our creative impulse.
On this level, we deconstruct the patterns, and we experiment with the forms. The basic question will be: What is your intention? Why do you want to do this? Why do you want this getting done to you?
On the FIRE level, we address how to use more complex patterns and challenging positions to create an impact on the somatic body of the person in ropes. We put the body under pressure! Rope-bottoms learn to grow stamina in challenging positions as well as understand their limits or how to distinguish between „good“ and „bad“ pain and how to deal with it.
When new freedom is gained, your bondage and your expression in ropes can become creative again. You have all the advanced tools for how to develop a scene and how to create individual aesthetics.
On the AIR level we can lab with concepts like MA: Space, Time, and Creation or can investigate the mythos of the Showa era, and our own erotic phantasies can be acted out in traditional Kinbaku aesthetics.
FIRE and AIR cannot be taught – it can just be shown. Our path is not your path. Nothing is obvious. The truth is hidden behind the surface: “Ura”
Discover Kinbaku – Absolute Beginners
Our workshop takes you from zero to first principles and applications - for more fun in the game together.
Elements of Semenawa – Intermediate
Introduction into our own interpretation of the style. An introduction into the basic principles of Semenawa for advanced beginners.
Bodies under Pressure – Advanced
A fresh look at the philosophy and toolbox of “Semenawa” as an inspiration for the advanced.