Most of us have seen titillating images of mostly women tied-up in intricately laced knots and scantily dressed. Upon viewing these images questions may arise such as, is she enjoying that? Is she being forced into this for someone else’s pleasure? Can I tie-up my partner? Can this actually be enjoyable?

If you want to explore these questions and desires may we suggest Shibari? Shibari is a Japanese rope tying technique, some may say artform, and it has been used in film, art and photography to seduce viewers due to its elegant and sexual aesthetics. Central to the art is creating patterns that contrast and complement the natural curves of the body. The beauty lies in the contrasts: bare skin against rope, strength against exposure, a sense of calm amongst the risk. In my quest to understand Shibari I contacted the Shibari Study and spoke to its founder, Marika. Not only were my questions answered, I discovered that there is much more to Shibari than a fun night of kink.