Our Full Statement, Why We Teach Shibari: Consent, Connection, and Community
Safety, Not Stigma: Why We Exist
Dearest Readers,
Since Fifty Shades of Grey first hit shelves in 2011, there’s been a growing mainstream curiosity around kink, BDSM, and rope play. These topics, once shrouded in taboo, are now part of everyday conversations. You can walk into a high-street shop and pick up toys designed to enhance intimacy—or throw an Ann Summers party without raising an eyebrow.
But here's the question: once you've bought those toys, do you really know how to use them safely?
We bring this up because Fifty Shades, while widely known, presents a dangerously inaccurate portrayal of kink. It skips over essential aspects like consent, aftercare, and communication—the very pillars of what real-world, responsible kink communities stand for. And that’s where we come in.
What We Actually Do
Shibari Lounge is an inclusive, neurodivergent-aware learning space—not a sex club, not a secret society, and certainly not a danger to the community. We offer education and support for adults who want to explore their interests safely and consensually.
Our primary focus is the Japanese rope art of Shibari (also known as Kinbaku)—a practice dating back to the 1600s. Today, it appears in art galleries, performances, photography, music videos, and yes, in private bedrooms too. It is, at its heart, an art form—and like any art, it requires skill, patience, knowledge, and care.
Many people have experimented with rope in intimate settings. But very few understand the real risks involved—like nerve damage, circulation issues, or emotional overwhelm. That’s why we offer non-judgmental, inclusive workshops to teach proper technique, anatomy, communication, and aftercare.
Sometimes that looks like a quiet afternoon in gym clothes, labbing rope ties, drinking tea, and chatting about safety. Sometimes it's a guest-led class on sensual massage, wax play, or understanding consensual sadomasochism. All of it is about education, consent, and empowerment.
Who We Are For
We exist to serve:
Curious adults seeking knowledge, not thrill
The LGBTQIA+ community
Neurodivergent folks who need a calm, accessible learning environment
Couples who want to deepen trust, communication, and intimacy
And anyone who wants to explore in a space rooted in respect and consent
And What We Are Not
To address recent concerns raised by local media:
No minors are ever allowed in our space.
Everyone who attends is vetted, over 18, and a consenting adult.
There is no signage outside that advertises our activities.
We maintain complete respect for our neighbours and community.
If anything, we exist to prevent harm—not cause it. Our hope is that people leave our studio feeling empowered, safe, and more informed about how to explore their desires responsibly. We're educators, artists, practitioners—and we care deeply about creating a kinder, safer world.
With warmth and respect,
The Shibari Lounge Team 💛
