Sex
It was intimate in unexpected ways.
We waited in nervous silence for the Queer Rope Bondage 101 workshop to begin.
As a curious queer, I was hesitant but highly intrigued to know more.
I learned thatrope bondage is a form ofshibari,also known askinbaku, that originates from Japan.
Liv is a self-identifying sadomasochist and pervert with blunt bangs and a soft smize.
While rope can get serious down the road, Livs beginner class would be solely sweet and cute.
I was ready to learn.
Next, we tried the double-column version.
It was coarse and harsh, but in a relaxing way.
Everything around me paused, and my main focus became the tenderness of the twisted fibers on my legs.
Once we were somewhat confident in our self-tying abilities, my girlfriend and I began tying on each other.
It was intimate and nerve-wracking at the same time.
The energy in the room was uplifting as everyone around me was focusing on tying their partners.
I loved seeing people tied up alongside me.
Wed just met, but we were all enjoying an intimate experience with one another.
I joined the class with the intention of using my new skills on my girlfriend.
However, when she started practicing on me, I had no choice but to comply.
It turned out to be an uncomfortable thrill.
I learned to like letting go and being the one to feel.
For this reason, Liv encourages people to come to class alone or with a group.
Keep a pair ofsafety scissorsaround just in case.
Im grateful I didnt let my nerves get the best of me.
The experience taught me that the scary and intense stereotypes of the BDSM world arent universal.