Breathplay
Breath play, often considered one of the more extreme forms of kink, involves controlling or restricting a person's ability to breathe. By playing with the dynamics of power and vulnerability, participants can achieve heightened states of arousal and sensation. If you're new to the concept or merely curious, here's a quick guide:
The Basics:
Breath play can take several forms, including but not limited to:
Hand Over Mouth (HOM): Using a hand to cover a partner's mouth and nose.
Choking: Applying pressure to the sides of the throat.
Strangulation: Using an instrument like a rope or belt to restrict airflow.
Smothering: Using objects like pillows or plastic to restrict airflow.
Safety First:
Due to the inherent risks, safety cannot be emphasised enough when it comes to breath play.
Informed Consent: Both participants must understand the risks and give informed consent.
Never Play Alone: Solo breath play has led to many unintentional deaths.
Establish Signals: Since the submissive might not be able to speak, have non-verbal signals or gestures in place.
Education: Understand the anatomy of the neck and the difference between restricting airflow vs. blood flow.
Emergency Precautions: Always have a phone nearby in case of emergencies, and ensure that any restraints can be quickly removed.
The Appeal:
So, why are people drawn to breath play?
Physiological: Oxygen deprivation can intensify sensations and lead to euphoric states.
Psychological: The dynamics of complete surrender, trust, and control can be intensely erotic for some.
Taboo: Engaging in something considered taboo can heighten arousal for many.
Risks:
It's crucial to acknowledge that breath play comes with significant risks, including brain damage, heart strain, and even death. It's not a practice to be taken lightly or tried on a whim.
Breath play, while thrilling for some, is a high-risk activity that requires extensive knowledge, trust, and precaution. If you or someone you know is interested in exploring breath play, it's essential to research thoroughly, communicate openly with your partner, and always prioritise safety.
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At Progressive Therapeutic Collective, we are proudly sex-positive and kink-affirming counselling and sex therapy practice. We work hard to reduce shame and instead, encourage open and supportive conversations about our sexual selves.
We work across Australia via telehealth.