If you want to discover the art of Shibari and rope bondage as a practice, this Shibari beginner workshop is designed as a clear, welcoming introduction to foundational rope skills, safety and communication.

Shibari is a special, intimate but also complex practice. It is necessary to understand the basics to enjoy it more fully. In this workshop we spend a 6-hour day (with a lunch break) covering the various knots and frictions used in Shibari and instil a deeper understanding of where and how to start, how to build your practice and play safely. This workshop focuses on learning how and why we tie, not just what to tie. We cover the fundamentals of safety, tying the body with rope and rope handling with some practical exercises.

This is a technical rope and Shibari workshop for people serious about nailing the basics.

A partner is required for the last part of the workshop, in which we teach you a chest harness incorporating all the knots, frictions and hitches we have learnt on the day, to take home and practice. If you are not attending with a partner you can pair up with another participant over the course of the day within your comfort zone.

Curriculum outline: 

1. Fundamentals of safety:

- Physical safety
- Emotional safety
- Relational safety
- Consent practice
- Introduction to communication in rope bondage
- Navigating uncertainty
- Intention in rope
- Basics of rope handling

2.   Fundamentals of tying:

- The single column tie
- Single column variations
- The double column tie
- Creative single and double column application
- The inline cuff (hojo cuff)
- Wraps and frictions
- The Yuki knot (quick release)

3.   Fundamentals of body handling:

- Transitioning the body on the floor
- Moving with the breath
- Ichihara (one rope ties) with intention

Please bring:

- A water bottle
- A snack for the shared snack table
- A suitable lunch if you require one

What to wear?

- Comfort is key! Wear whatever is most comfortable for you. Ideas - tights, sweatpants, shirts, t-shirts, layer for warmth.

This course is a pre-requisite for intermediate classes and non-beginner rope workshops.

No prior experience is required.

This is always a wonderful workshop to present. We are looking forward to seeing you there.

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Tickets for this event through our website:

https://www.embodimentropespace.co.za/shibari-events-in-cape-town/

OUR TEAM

Embodiment Rope Space is the love child of a group of volunteers from different walks of life coming together to actualize something we think the world needs: a queer safe(r) space for exploring kink as a healing, connective force.

You can follow us on Instagram here:

@embodiment_ct

@faeriebunnyrope (she/her)

@rope.fu (he/him)

@creaturale (they/them)

@fire_lily_kinbaku (she/her)

@sudo_kinbaku_ / @sudojute_v2 (he/they)

Embodiment rope space is a welcoming and safe (r) space for members of the LQBTQIA+ community and allies. Rope is never safe, there are only ways to practice it more safely.

Please study the FAQ and ethos of our space on our website, www.embodimentropespace.co.za before attending.

Important information:

- If you have rope, bring it along. Otherwise you are welcome to us your class rope.
- Please adhere to the ethos of our space.
- ROAR
- Please note this is an alcohol and substance free space

Ropey things for sale: We have limited treated rope from Sudo Jute (variable price range: R400-500 per 8m hank) and safety shears for sale.

RULES

1. Be on time.

2. Respect the space. Leave no trace - whatever you bring, take it back with you.

3. Ego has no place here. Learn and share with humility.

4. Ask for people’s pronouns and use the ones you are given.

5. No shoes. Keep underwear on at public events. Nipples may be free.

6. Do not make unsolicited comments about anyone else's body.

7. Do not take any photos of anyone in attendance without consent.

8. Do not post photos without the consent of EVERYONE in the photo.

9. Do not reveal the identity of anyone you meet in the space once you leave. Many people prefer anonymity.

10. Be mindful of making noise in the space when others are tying around you, this includes loud talking and laughing.

11. Be discrete when moving through other parts of the premises. Clothes are optional in the space but not outside the door.

12. Please stay home if you are feeling unwell.

13. Please do not use any recreational drugs before coming or while on site.

FAQ
What is Shibari/Kinbaku/Bondage?

The art of binding the body of a consenting adult.

Is rope/Shibari always sexual?

Rope/Shibari has many benefits and practitioners outside of the sexual paradigm. For some, it is about pushing their bodies not unlike engaging in strenuous exercise or extreme sports. For others, it is a way to reclaim their agency after trauma. It can also be a way to experience a connection with others without the scripts and expectations associated with genital contact. As long as what you are doing is consensual and intentional, we consider it healthy and valid.

What should I wear?

This is a learning environment, not a sexual one, so crotches are to remain covered. Other than that, you are free to wear whatever you like. Comfy, sexy, sporty, fetish - as long as your booty is covered, you are welcome here.

What should I expect on the night?

We hope to create a safe and intimate space where you will get the rare opportunity to learn from highly skilled professionals. You will also have access to our team to chat about rope and connect with the community in a low-pressure environment.

Note on accessibility:

We believe rope is for every body. At the same time the building we are currently occupying does not allow for wheelchair access to ground floor ablution facilities. This is an ongoing negotiation with the current landlords. However the space itself allows for wheelchair access :)