BDSM stands for Bondage and Discipline, Domination and Submission, Sadism and Masochism. The most important aspects of BDSM are trust and communication. Anyone engaging in BDSM needs to be able to have a conversation about what is expected, what is accepted, and what is a boundary. Detailing this with each other prior to playing will ensure a pleasurable experience.
If one were interested in exploring BDSM for the first time, one of the most simple and common actions is to play with the senses. Introducing a restraint or a blindfold, for example, takes away one sense or ability to move, and heightens the other senses.When you and your partner are ready to explore more, the options will be here!
BDSM is also a fun way to practice giving and receiving consent. Often, because the people involved do discuss the parameters of their play, they have practice in setting boundaries and knowing how far to push ahead. Communication must be clear from all the people involved in order for pleasure to rule.
BDSM scenes can also be extremely psychologically intense. Certain scenarios may be suggested between the folks involved, including scenarios that may bring up certain trauma. However, because a high level of communication and consent are upheld, it often gives the person with a history of trauma, more control over the scenario, helping them to heal any trauma wounds.
Because of the intensity of some of the BDSM scenes, it may be important to help get back to equilibrium for one or more of the people involved. This practice is called after care within BDSM and kink communities. After care usually occurs after the play scene has ended. This practice asks, “What does this person need now that the play is over? Do they need to talk it out? Do they need nurturing or to be left alone?”
In truth, the practice of after care is something that could easily be transferred to any pleasure play scenario, whether BDSM is involved or not. The “vanilla” sex world could really learn more about consent and relationships from the BDSM and kink communities.
