Impact play is a type of BDSM play that involves striking or hitting a consenting partner for pleasure. It can be a thrilling and exciting experience for many people, but safety is crucial to prevent injuries and ensure a positive experience. Here are five tips for safe and enjoyable impact play.
1. Communication is key
Before starting any impact play, it's essential to have a conversation with your partner about their boundaries, limits, and expectations. Discuss the type of impact they're comfortable with, the intensity, the duration, and the areas of the body they're comfortable being struck. It's crucial to establish a safeword that will be respected by both partners.
Communication is crucial during the play as well; check-in with your partner and ask if they're okay and if they want to continue. Good communication builds trust and makes the experience more enjoyable and safer.
2. Start slow and build up
If you're new to impact play, it's essential to start slow and build up gradually. Start with a light tap or a gentle swat and increase the intensity gradually.
Avoid starting with heavy impact, especially on sensitive areas like the face, neck, or spine. The body needs time to adjust to the sensation and build up tolerance. Take breaks in between strikes. This allows both partners to assess how they're feeling and adjust accordingly. Remember that everyone's pain threshold is different, and what might be enjoyable for one person might be unbearable for another.
3. Choose the right tools
Choosing the right tools for impact play is crucial for safety and pleasure. Invest in high-quality impact play toys like floggers, paddles, canes, or whips. These impact play toys are designed to deliver a range of sensations, from light teasing to intense pain, and are less likely to cause injuries.
When choosing an impact play toy, consider the material, the weight, and the shape. Leather, silicone, or rubber are popular materials that are easy to clean and durable. Avoid ones with sharp edges or points that can break the skin or cause bruises.
4. Watch out for danger zones
Certain areas of the body are more susceptible to injuries than others and should be avoided during impact play. The face, neck, spine, kidneys, and tailbone are considered "danger zones" and should be approached with caution.
Striking these areas can cause serious injuries that can lead to permanent damage. Instead, focus on areas with more cushioning, like the buttocks, thighs, or back. Alternate between different areas to spread the sensation.
5. Aftercare is important
Aftercare is an essential part of impact play that ensures the physical and emotional well-being of both partners. Aftercare involves taking care of any injuries, physical or emotional, that may have occurred during the play.
This can include applying ice packs, taking pain relievers, or cuddling and reassuring each other. Aftercare is also an opportunity to process the experience, share feedback, and express gratitude. It's important to respect each other's space and needs during aftercare and avoid jumping into another activity too quickly.
Conclusion
Impact play can be a fun and exciting way to explore BDSM, but safety should always be the top priority. Good communication, starting slow, choosing the right tools, watching out for danger zones, and aftercare are crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience. Remember that everyone's preferences and limits are different, and it's essential to respect them to ensure a positive experience for both partners.
