Yukimura style shibari is often referred to as “model centric” based mainly on the understanding that communication with the person you are tying in the most essential part of any scene. Accordingly there are some key concepts that emerge as a result of that philosophy. In this class, we explore central tenets of Yukimura style shibari that result in powerful and intimate rope scenes. Each of the three main concepts: resistance (teikou), shame (hazukasii), and play (asobi) will be discussed and then illustrated through basic rope exercises and hands-on ties.
We will explore several methods for both creating and overcoming resistance, how to create and manage vulnerability and shame, and what elements can be used to create what Yukimura called a “rope game” (nawa yugii) as a way to play with your partner and explore fantasy and imagination in rope.
This class explores the role of both the person tying and the person tied in this style of play, including the question I am most frequently asked by rope bottoms, “How should I react to being tied?”
The first hour of class will explore these concepts and the second hour will be “free play” time to put these ideas into practice.
