What’s Your Risk Profile in Shibari?
A Guide to Safer Shibari & Rope Play
Let’s not brush aside the fact that shibari is edge play—and with that comes inherent risk. While we can try to mitigate those risks and be as safe as possible, they will always remain present to some degree. That's why understanding and communicating your personal risk profile—whether you’re a top, bottom, or switch—is essential.
Risk profiles are a core element of R.A.C.K. (Risk Aware Consensual Kink) and P.R.I.C.K. (Personal Responsibility, Informed, Consensual Kink). Without acknowledging and sharing your risk tolerance, you’re missing a vital step in giving and receiving informed consent.
Why Understanding Your Risk Profile Matters in Rope Bondage
There are many risks involved in rope bondage, both physical and emotional. But something being risky doesn’t automatically make it wrong. Risk-aware kink means asking:
“Am I willing to engage in this activity, knowing the potential outcomes? And am I prepared to manage those risks responsibly?”
Being risk-aware means accepting that things can still go wrong—regardless of experience level. That's why clear communication is your best safety tool. Below are some key areas we recommend considering before you tie (or are tied). Reading this blog won’t remove your risks—but talking through it with your partner might reduce them.
Start with the 5 W’s: Who, What, When, Where & Why
These self-check questions can guide your negotiation process and support better shibari communication:
Who are you tying with? Are they experienced, trustworthy, and known to the community?
What do you want from this tie? Aesthetics, intimacy, learning, challenge?
When did you last eat or hydrate? How are you feeling today?
Where on your body feels safe or sensitive? Do you have injuries or trauma?
Why are you doing this scene? Is your intention clear to your partner?
Consent is Ongoing and Informed
Consent means providing your partner with the necessary information about your wishes, boundaries, triggers, and needs. It must be given freely, without coercion or impaired judgment—and it can be revoked at any time.
Taking responsibility for yourself means vetting your partners, choosing safe environments, and knowing your limits. If a rigger wants to lab a tie and that doesn’t align with your goals, speak up. It's okay to say:
“I’d prefer a play-based scene today.”
Or even:
“Actually, I don’t think we’re a good match to tie.”
You are never obligated to proceed with a scene you're unsure about.
Full Disclosure Builds Safety
Withholding information—before, during, or after a scene—can compromise your safety and your partner’s. Open communication helps avoid harm.
If you’re a bottom, learning about human anatomy, nerve locations, and circulation risks gives you language to better advocate for yourself:
“The kannuki on my right arm is pinching” is far more helpful than “My arm hurts.”
Riggers, you are responsible for:
Your partner’s safety
Your own physical/emotional condition
Knowing when to stop and your limitations
Communicating before, during, and after the tie
All the gear and no idea? Lets talk safety.
ROPE
Rope safety and maintenance are essential parts of risk management in shibari.
Ask yourself:
When was the last time you checked your rope?
Inspect for wear and tear, especially at the bight and uplines used for suspensions.
Retire any ropes that look weak or overly worn.
Consider repurposing old rope for floor work or “shit bits.”
How clean are your ropes?
Fluids (sweat, saliva, blood, sexual fluids) can carry pathogens. Natural rope is hard to clean—designate rope for different partners or uses when needed.
How do you store your rope?
Store in a cool, dry place—away from direct sunlight, humidity, or pets.
Loose hanks allow air to circulate; hanging is best for rope used regularly.
What kind of rope do you enjoy?
Think about feel, handling, allergies, strength, aesthetics, burn risk, and maintenance. Natural vs. synthetic—each has pros and cons.
CARABINERS
Carabiners aren’t required—but can improve efficiency, safety, and suspension management.
Use load-rated carabiners only.
Understand their structure (e.g. avoid nose-hooking or cross-loading).
Learn how kN ratings translate to dynamic body weight.
If carabiners feel outside your comfort zone, it’s okay to ask:
“Can we tie without them?” or “Can you explain why you prefer using one here?”
HARD POINTS
If you’re suspending, evaluate the entire suspension system.
Is the hard point safe and structurally sound?
What other gear is involved—rings, bamboo, swivels, slings, hoists?
Is there a mat or padding underneath?
Is the floor slippery or cluttered?
Spotters are your friend. Ask for help and double-check all rigging.
Common Risks in Rope Bondage (And How to Lessen Them)
Circulation Impairment
A common but manageable issue. Learn the signs:
Tingling, numbness, cool skin
Loss of colour or swelling
Key Tip: If circulation is restricted, it can mask signs of nerve damage—making it more dangerous. Always be able to slide a finger under the wraps.
Drink fluids after untying to help your body recover and flush out toxins.
Nerve Damage
Can happen instantly or over time due to:
Pressure on vulnerable areas
Repeated strain or poor wrap tension
Compression around joints
Bottoms: learn to perform motor and sensory checks and speak up early.
Riggers: tie with anatomical awareness and avoid direct pressure on nerve zones.
Asphyxiation
Whether intentional or unintentional, breath play is edge play and carries serious risks.
Avoid obstructing airflow without full negotiation.
Use quick release points around the neck.
Pay attention to chest compression in suspensions.
Breath restriction may look artistic—but it should always be consensual, cautious, and closely monitored.
Falling
One of the most dangerous risks—especially in partial or full suspension.
Use safety uplines even in standing ties if arms are immobilised.
If you feel dizzy, faint, or off-balance, pause immediately.
Protect the head—especially in awkward or off-centre positions.
Common sense saves lives. Don't be afraid to ask for adaptations.
Final Thoughts on Risk, Consent, and Safety in Shibari
This blog only scratches the surface of what goes into developing a responsible, evolving risk profile for rope play.
We are not medical professionals, and we encourage everyone to:
Keep learning about anatomy, safety, and negotiation
Talk to experienced riggers and bottoms
Practice ongoing consent and self-awareness
We’ll break this topic down even further in the future—but for now, thank you for reading and engaging with this conversation.
At Shibari Lounge, we believe knowledge is empowerment. And the better you understand your own risk profile, the more confidently, safely, and beautifully you can explore.
