At this beginner friendly rope class, we will be learning about tying the arms in playful or constructive ways with a variety of lacing techniques. These ties are versatile and useful to create intimacy and exposure, a feeling of safety or deep surrender, for being playful or for play. It is both suitable as a gentle introductory starter or the main course.

We will first demo and discuss the structure of a basic arm binder, then explore its different forms by looking at your partners body, flexibility and intention for the tie. Arm binders at the front of the body create a more introspective experience while arm binders behind the body invite more exposure and possibly vulnerability.

After the demo and some practice, we move into the jam part of the evening - an open space to explore and play freely with this new pattern, combine with any other ties you want, or simply play and share rope with your partner. Our space holders will be on hand to support you and might do some more complex ties of their own for play or inspiration.

By necessity arms binders are partnered work. At the same time the principles shown will be useful for those learning through observation. Brine a notebook!

If you are curious about Shibari but not sure of where and how to begin, join us to learn more about this rich, diverse and fascinating practice. We will teach some beginner-level content to build a basic understanding of rope bondage and give you a sense of why we love rope so much. Themed beginner jams (like this one) are low pressure environments where we introduce a few rope ideas and techniques, provide a bit of direction on how to use them and then open the floor up for people to play and explore with those ideas.

Experienced practitioners are warmly invited to come hang out, practice and share some skills.

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.

Tickets via our website www.embodimentropespace.co.za

Important information:

- Please wear something you can comfortably sit in/ move around in. Leggings > sweatpants > jeans
- If you have rope, bring it along. Otherwise you are welcome to use our 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 :)