What does bondage mean in kinks?

A bondage kink is a sadomasochistic sexual act in which one partner is physically restrained. In essence, it refers to a type of sex play where a partner is tied or restrained in a sex position in order to give or receive sexual pleasure.

Why do people enjoy it?

We occasionally have fantasies that we are unable to express. We may be reluctant to express our inner desires to our partner because we feel like doing so is so taboo. BDSM is one situation where this may be the case. Bondage sex is reportedly listed as one of the preferred BDSM activities by 58.9% of men and 54.4% of women who practice the therapy. In addition, a 2015 study of female kinks found that bondage is a preferred activity for them, with more than 85% of respondents saying they engage in it for erotic or sensual pleasure.

In addition, the study notes that one of the most frequent justifications for bondage practices is the exercise of interpersonal power through the exertion of physical restraint. Others point out that because bondage enables them to unwind and practice a type of focused attention, they might liken it to an eroticized form of mindfulness practice, similar to meditation or other common pastimes. People's enjoyment of BDSM may be influenced by the brain's reward and pain systems. Engaging in these activities could help to increase pleasure because the brain region that is activated by both pleasure and pain may be the same.

Related: Handcuffs and How Common They Are

Benefits

There are a myriad benefits that bondage includes, and here are some of the main ones.

It enhances pleasure

Subspace is a state of consciousness that results from BDSM. Submissives and receivers are said to be in a floaty, high state both during and after the play. Additionally, applying restraints might make someone feel sensory-deprived. This could contribute to a person's excitement as well as their remaining senses' perception, which could heighten their level of pleasure.

It deepens connections

Bondage sex may encourage couples to explore their fantasies and desires. Bondage sex depends on confidence and security. The vulnerability that comes with giving up control may encourage closeness and trust in relationships. Training in bondage can improve one's communication, assertiveness, and negotiation skills.

It heals relationships

BDSM can provide a secure environment for those recovering from abuse, PTSD, and trauma. Additionally, therapists may use bondage as a tool to assist couples in addressing power dynamics. Couples might benefit from practicing ceding control and assuming it in the bedroom before doing so in other areas of their relationship as a result.

It improves sexual and mental health

BDSM practitioners experience fewer sexual issues than the general population. Males who practice BDSM also experienced less distress during sexual activity than their non-BDSM counterparts.

Conclusion

The conclusion? There are many advantages to feeling liberated and in touch with your inner desires when you explore your sexuality in a safe, legal, and open way—even if that means you enjoy a good flogging occasionally.

We've touched on this topic similarly in our article 4 Ways BDSM Can Be Healthy so be sure to check that out.