Showing posts with label D/s. Show all posts
Showing posts with label D/s. Show all posts

Sunday, June 21, 2009

sub-Zone, sub-Drop: Hitting the Wall or Crash & Burn!


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This post is reproduced from Wicked's blog with His permission. i have reposted it it as it appears to have inadvertently been deleted and i am aware that Dom and Sub zones and drops are of interest to many of Y/you at the moment.

i urge Y/you to visit Wicked's page, settled down and prepare Y/yourselves for a good read. Important points have been highlighted in red and my own comments in pink. Once again.. thank You Wicked for approving reporting here. i am most appreciative ...*smiles*


myspace layouts, myspace codes, glitter graphics

Sub-Drop: Crash and Burn in the Sub-Zone
- or Hitting the Wall!


The Wall


The Wall is one identification of the limit that the mind and body are physically capable of processing. Some submissives will talk about 'hitting the Wall' or 'White Out'.

This is going so far that the mind loses the ability to cope and can dissociate or retreat from reality.

A submissive can and may go fetal in this state and it is not something you should ever try to achieve as it can and may have permanent or lasting effects. It is to go beyond the threshold.

Important note here: subs are breakable!


myspace layouts, myspace codes, glitter graphics


Some people who experience such a graphic
or traumatic event never return
but remain essentially lost inside of their mind
for the remainder of their lives.


This is serious and the only reason I am writing about it is that this threshold is something that it is important to be aware of the existence of. this is especially true if you are new to the BDSM lifestyle and perhaps unaware of the potentials with which you are playing. The human mind is both strong and fragile. It should always be handled with the greatest care and concern.

The body has a finite capacity to process information. With every person the range of that ability varies. Within that range is further variation. For many people there is a real and true desire to achieve experiences just on the edge of that threshold.

myspace layouts, myspace codes, glitter graphics




myspace layouts, myspace codes, glitter graphics


sub-Space

Achieving space for a new submissive is generally (initially) accidental.

There is a desire and a willingness to try and at some point that first barrier or mental threshold will be crossed and the submissive will find themselves 'in' space.

Often this is a frightening and exciting experience. A Dominant should not press that first experience of space but allow it to be full of pleasure and positive chemistries.

This will encourage the submissive to actively 'go to that place' in their minds during a scene.

To deepen their level of space the Dominant needs to proceed slowly and cautiously. It is essential to remember that trust is the key, if the Dominant says one thing and does another they are providing an unstable surface and the submissive will not trust them as deeply.

This will tend to prevent the submissive from releasing their vulnerability further. From a Dominant's standpoint the deeper you can take your submissive, the higher they can fly and the more stimulation they can sustain. Again it is important to note that there are sincere limits here.
Submissive's vary from day to day and moment to moment. (Yes, subs are human...and the goal is not always to achieve sub-space within a consistent eg: 5 minute period. Niether does it make the sub any less submissive if she cannot achieve sub-space every time..or even at all!)

On Monday they can space and be at maximum from having nipple clamps while on Tuesday they may need or want zipper's, full CBT or waxing to achieve the same euphoric state. It becomes essential for the Dominant to become so attuned to their submissive's current state that they know where their submissive is at on any given day.

There is no right or wrong here. It is merely that the brain may be full with other tasks on some days and only have the ability to 'allocate' a certain amount of space or energy toward processing.

With some submissives they will need and require more during times of stress (it almost appears that they become desensitized to lower levels of stimulation or need to overcome the 'stress' by higher levels) with other submissives their ability to process new stimulation during a period of stress is greatly reduced and in fact they may be unable to play during those times. Again, there is no right or wrong, simply variations. Learning such intimacies between partners is crucial.

myspace layouts, myspace codes, glitter graphics


Risk Reduction & Avoiding sub-Crash


Making an error can propel a submissive into a horrendous event or a scene that they 'feel'
later to have been in violation

to their needs, wants and desires.

This leaves the Dominant in a somewhat precarious position if they only play with that submissive occasionally. They simply cannot know what is going on. (This is particularly true of online psychological boundary or edge work)
For deeper or edge play I sincerely recommend that the people involved spend a great deal of time together learning each other prior to attempting to play along the threshold. This is not an area where you want to make any mistakes in evaluation or judgment.

The deeper a submissive goes into subspace the worse their communication skills become (verbal). (This is the point where the value of 'safewords' is questionable ... it is difficult to use a safeword in the zone.. where thinking is compromised and the ability to speak is compromised to the point of non-existence!!)


The Dominant should assume that not only can their submissive not evaluate what is dangerous to them, but that the chemistries flowing in their blood stream will essentially mask out their body signals which would normally tell them there are problems.


****When a submissive is in subspace
ALL of the responsibility for that submissive's safety
and welfare rest squarely on the Dominant.****

A submissive in deep space can endure broken bones, severe lacerations and many other forms of severe damage without knowing it. Since this type of damage is not what BDSM is about it becomes very important for a Dominant to know not only their submissive's skin, tissue, bone and muscular responses to various implements or toys, but also the full potentials of each implement or toy. (For many D/s people it is the mind that is the most vulnerable.. not all play employs physical toys or touch; the boundaries and edge work can validly takesplace with the mind, emotions and spirit and the use of humiliation can be particularly damaging if not monitored and managed carefully.)

Many submissives in deep space will appear or tend to encourage a Dominant into extending the play beyond the limits that a toy or implement has been used on them in the past. Essentially the submissive is to some degree 'high', the sensations increase their feelings of being high and the submissive enjoys that continuation. However, this is also how serious damage occurs. Once the chemistries retreat from the bloodstream and brain the submissive will feel everything.


The aftermath can be absolutely horrendous
in part because the Dominant will not
have known the damage they have delivered
until sometimes several days after the scene.
(On one such event the effect of sub-drop on this one remained at an intense level of emotional and mental discomfort for almost a week!!)
When a couple have played together a fairly long time they tend to relax into an understanding of each other.

myspace layouts, myspace codes, glitter graphics


At this point many submissives will be able to enter subspace quite easily and venture along the energy stream of their Dominant with deep trust. (The Dominant is the net or the safety string that returns the submissive to 'normal space'.)

Often both the Dominant and submissive will JOINTLY DECIDE to try something new or go somewhat further.

BOB & TOP:

This extension of previous limits can be made slightly more safe if the Dominant trains the submissive to 'bob and top', this is an exercise where the submissive can 'top on command' this means to achieve 'top or normal space' for a moment. Many submissives 'bob and top' to check bindings or pain (or general distress)
levels. This may appear to contradict what I said earlier , it doesn't.

It is something that only 'some' submissives can do well while others can never achieve it cleanly. Most submissives can learn to do it and should to assist their Dominant in evaluating where they are.

Essentially the submissive can top and say something like "right wrist". That is generally about the extent of their ability to articulate speech.

They will usually revert back to their prior space almost instantly.


The Dominant is left with the cryptic comment which may mean that there is a sincere problem with the right wrist.

This tool can be used to aid the Dominant but should not be trusted to the point of removal of any primary responsibility. This tool is particularly helpful if the Dominant and submissive are experimenting with intense bondage or suspension. (Or fear & trust work)
Tags: sub-zone:avoidthedrop | Edit Tags

Friday November 24, 2006 - 10:39pm (EST) Edit | Delete

Comments

(2 total) Post a Comment

very informative and true...will leave a ty with Wicked

Saturday November 25, 2006 - 07:33am (PST) Remove Comment

thank you sis for posting this very important information... especially for Dominants and submissives that have been coming out of the closet (or is it cummmmmmmmmmmmming out of the closet?) and finding out who T/they really are... *hugggggggggs*

Saturday December 23, 2006 - 05:11am (EST)

He Looks like a Dom and Quacks like a Dom, but is he really a Dom?

He Looks like a Dom and Quacks like a Dom,
but is he really a Dom?

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'... emotional, financial, or personal stability, the things that in my opinion establish a foundation for someone to control another person ...' (Sensuous Sadie)

Discussion and thoughts to consider from DomSubFriends Society


He Looks like a Dom and Quacks like a Dom, but is he really a Dom?
By Sensuous Sadie


Thoughts on the difference between appearing to be in control, and actually being in control




What is Control ?



  • Control over his environment, and of me is a very particular kind of control.
  • Similarly, to control another person, we must be able to control our own lives. This does not mean never having fun or being spontaneous, but rather that each of us creates our lives and takes responsibility for what we have created.
  • To be able to demonstrate that my life is what I have chosen, rather than a bit of flotsam and jetsam tossed about in the storm.


How do we know which is which?




The challenge then is to identify Dominants who are actually in control, not just acting.



My approach is to ignore the visual and sexual trappings, what the person says, wears, and acts – even whether or not they have a submissive. Instead, I look at:



  • How they are managing their lives.
  • Are they passionate about their work?
  • Are they responsible parents?
  • Have they been able to sustain a long-term relationship?
  • Are they living in a comfortable home?
  • Are they emotionally stable?



Is he or she in Control, or Controlling?




Being "in control" is a bit of a loaded term, so let's look at some related issues. One is the distinction is between being "in control" and being "controlling."


Being in control is about being certain and sure-footed about who you are and what you are doing. When you are dominant with those around you, you are allowing others the benefit of this control.


Being controlling is about being insecure and demanding that others assure you that you are okay. It is the antithesis of, and yet is often mistaken for real dominance.



Can we judge Submissives by the same Yardstick?


Another interesting side issue is whether we can apply these same ideas to submissives. Does their ability to control their own lives relate directly to their ability to actually submit, versus only appearing to submit?


Submissives are rarely measured by their ability to control their own lives, but a submissive whose career, financial life, and social network are in shambles is clearly not someone who is prepared to engage in any exchange of power.


Giving someone control of a messed up existence is not a gift,
but a burden.


Stacey agrees with me, saying, "Many submissives are strong individuals and their submission is to a strong partner, not to the world at large.

There has to be a tension (in a good sense) between two people who are equal in strength and completeness, a push and pull between worthy opponents.

What thrill is there for a Dominant in having someone weak surrender their teeny bit of weakness?"


Article quoted in part: By Sensuous Sadie.SensuousSadie@aol.com or www.sensuoussadie.com


I think these are great points to ponder. They are aspects to consider if the goal is a r/t D/s relationship. These aspects are probably less less important in chatroom roleplay, o/l relationships and single or short term 'play' or attendance at parties or dungeon scenes where the goal is a different form of connection.


POLL:

A self -professed Dom over 35 still lives with a healthy mother..is he...
a Peter Pan with an Oedipus complex playing D/s puter games
28
Demonstrably capable of taking responsibility for a sub?
0
An independent man in charge of his own life and the Dom of your dreams
3
Tags: domspaperdomsandwannabes | Edit Tags

Wednesday January 24, 2007 - 04:54am (EST) E


Comments

(14 total) Post a Comment

Very interesting post....makes me evaluate my own Domishness.

Tuesday January 23, 2007 - 01:01pm (EST) Remove Comment

Going down the checklist, thinking about some of the "doms" and Doms i've run across. Smiling, and nodding. At least I know where mine falls.

Tuesday January 23, 2007 - 01:03pm (EST) Remove Comment

*smiles at blondesis* thank you for sharing yet another informative article regarding "the lifestyle". sorting out the chaff is always good, and the checklist should be used by all submissives when deciding if the One that he/she is playing with really knows what He is doing or not... *twirls away with her tiara securely attached to her head*

Tuesday January 23, 2007 - 01:18pm (EST) Remove Comment

*s* Great post, honey. Particularly timely and topical, no? *grins* Thanking you, thanking you, thanking you, thanking you. *s*

Tuesday January 23, 2007 - 11:21am (PST) Remove Comment

Very good post, sis. I'm glad that you touched on both sides of the issue.

As for that "Dom". I'm sure if you'd hazard a peek under the skirt you'd find that his sorry ass is still bright pink from the spankings.

Tuesday January 23, 2007 - 11:40am (PST) Remove Comment

Yes, One needs to be in control of Ones own life before attempting to convince another they can control them. Cavaet Emptor! (Buyer Beware!) applies as always. There is no "try before you buy". Be SURE before you leap.

A controlling person, "Dom" or "sub" (quotes denote psydonyms), is not in control - rather they are compensating for their own deep deep fears of inferiority, insecurity, and a chronic low self-image. A Person in control embraces their flaws, makes them part of their personality, is determined to work on them, and goes out of Their way to ensure no-one else pay for them. The difference is vast.

Wednesday January 24, 2007 - 08:22am (EST) Remove Comment

..excellent post BR... (and thank you) ..i especially found the section regarding submissives...and the control that is exhibited by them in their day to day lives...i agree with the author...if a submissives personal life is in disarray, then giving power to a Dominant is only a sign that they are looking for someone to make the confusion of their lives better....its is not a gift!...*hugssss BR*..

Tuesday January 23, 2007 - 04:07pm (CST) Remove Comment

wonderful post sister, good points to remember always in all areas of any releationship before venturing deeper. one thing i always think about is if they love themselves, by this i mean not the ego but do they take care of themselves. if they are slobs well then to me they dont much love themselves. looks arent everything nor are clothes but their health and physical care of themselves is important to me. all else i do agree with .. thank you again .. have a wonderful evening sister .. talk with you soon .. hugs n love to you ..

Tuesday January 23, 2007 - 05:09pm (CST) Remove Comment

Well it has always seemed logical to me that if One can't control One's own life, then how can One possibly claim to be able to control anothers! Surely they can only deliver what they already have?

As for subs... a mess of disarray wrapped in a few submissive-sounding pretty words is hardly a gift worthy of giving; tidying it up a little first would always seem adviseable before trying to get someone else to take responsibility for it

Of course as an alpha female, i tend more toward the idea that submission is a prize to be earned and won..never did buy into that whole gift thing..mainly on account of being able to take it back..*smiles* but maybe that's just me...*lol*.

Wednesday January 24, 2007 - 11:19am (EST) Remove Comment

I'm working very hard to earn My prize. Luckily I generally share the same views as The blonde and believe Y/you have to have Y/your own shit together before Y/you can be either D or s. I also think an alpha sub is the only way to go as I've said before.

Wednesday January 24, 2007 - 01:31pm (EST) Remove Comment

A very good blog blonde raven.

A major difference I see in r/l over o/l is that in r/l You have to financially support Your sub. If You can't support Yourself how are You going to be able to support two of Y/you?

I've heard that there are so called o/l Doms that get their subs to buy their OWN collars. How pathetic is that?

Or worse still. Some others get their subs to send them the fares so that they can come and visit.

Come on so called Doms pull your head out of your arses and look at the real world. You're not a Dom unless You can support Yourself and Your sub.

Wednesday January 24, 2007 - 02:12pm (EST) Remove Comment

lol... looks up at scroll... nods in agreement with the Aussie Doms!....No mucking about with You Men huh? .. notes All r/l and none living with Mum!!!

Good point on collars Snow Sir.. i have also heard that.. and yet so simple to put even a length of pretty ribbon in an envelope and post it if o/l or long distance relationship (LDR).. after all, it is supposed to be His collar.. not hers..*lol* and collars need not be expensive.. ribbon is only about $1-50 a metre and if He can't manage that...well.......

And as for the one who claims r/t 24/7 yet the sub only sees him if she pays for the airfare (guess his mum can't afford it) ... oh puh-leeze *rolls eyes* ... sheer fantsy land!

Wednesday January 24, 2007 - 04:37pm (EST) Remove Comment

Good advice and points to consider here sis* ... it would seem many feel that a Dom heart or mind is enough.. well anyone could quack that.. but His actions, His reality.. they are the things to examine closely. A Dom heart and mind is about control of self, own life and then and only then, the life of another. So M/many seem to miss this very basic point!

Is she in control of her life.. or a jumbled mess looking for someone else to clean it up? There's a word for that and it isn't submissive!

Good points to ponder!

But of course, if all one wants to do is play then none of this matters. Playing at D/s is fun too and should be encouraged to add a little spice... *smiles

As for a Dom living with his mum... sorry... no way..*lol*..a little more independence is required for this girl!

Wednesday January 24, 2007 - 05:53pm (EST) Remove Comment

hmmm, this hits on some seriously interesting points. I've always thought that if your life is in chaos and beyond your control, then you shouldn't enter into any sort of "romantic" relationship, D/s or not.

Tuesday January 23, 2007 - 11:21pm (PST)

Online Safety: Slavemaster: A Cautionary Tale

Slavemaster: A Cautionary Tale
Slavemaster: A Cautionary Tale magnify


The Internet and chat rooms provide a relatively safe place for people to explore, in a non-physical way, various aspects of sexuality and fantasy; the ultimate form of safe sex... no condoms required.

Within the apparent safety of this medium, relationships are forged. Chat rooms are like 'neighbourhoods' and like a neighbourhood community, a certain familiarity grows between regular users.

It is not uncommmon for people to log on at times when they know 'their' group will be in the neighbourhood and within this setting there develops a curious feeling of safety, familiarity and intimacy. Friendships are forged and like any other neighbourhood, cliques, disputes and gossip are common. All entered and exited by the click of a curser.

The neighbourhood is alive 24/7. A refuge for the creative, the bored, lonely, seekers of education and information, entertainment, distraction or connection with like-minded people.

It was the Internet that brought BDSM within reach of everyone and this has been both a blessing and a curse for 'real life' practitioners whose main connection previously was more formal locally arranged 'munches' or club evenings.

On the one hand, the Internet has increased the pool of doms and subs, but it has also allowed dangerous malefactors to infiltrate the society and bring harm to innocent participants.


The following is a cautionary tale:


John E Robinson Sr, 58, the 'Slavemaster' is the world's first know Internet serial killer. Guilty of the capital murder for the deaths of Izabela Lewicks, 21 and Suzette Trouten, 27 and the first degree murder of Lisa Stasi, 19.

Robinson discovered the Internet and its usefulness in meeting people interested in domination and submission sexual activity. He had always been interested in technology, which he used for his own ends. Robinson was a master of manipulating a word processor to create forged documents and when the Web took off in the 1990s, he was an avid Internet user and frequent participant in sexually explicit chat rooms.

Robinson used the name "Slavemaster" to meet women who enjoyed playing the role of the submissive partner during sex.


His usual workday consisted of getting online and trolling for women willing to engage in submissive sex acts with him, both on the Internet and in person. Gradually, Robinson became well known and highly regarded in the BDSM chat rooms that were appearing online with increasing frequency.


Robinson the Slavemaster was thoroughly at home on the Internet. The anonymity of the medium reduced his need to playact and he easily slipped from his public persona of the kind, loving grandfather who mowed his lawn several times each week and shared gardening chores with his neighbors to a domineering master who demanded total obedience from the slaves who served him over the Web.


With just the written word and carefully staged photographs of himself, he was able to charm almost any willing submissive to do his will. At his expense, women interested in the submissive lifestyle would come to Kansas City, some for brief visits and others to spend the rest of their lives. The women who came to stay, lured by his promises of financial support and jobs (*in itself, such luring was found to be kidnapping) frequently ended up dead after he no longer needed or wanted them.


Amongst others, Robinson struck up an acquaintance with a college student named Izabela Lewicka. Izabela was a beautiful, young fine arts student with an interest in gothic horror stories and bondage. In late 1997, she told her parents that she was dropping out of school and heading to Kansas City, where a rich entrepreneur had offered her an internship.


What Izabela did not tell her parents was that she had also agreed to be Robinson's slave.
Lured by the need to be dominated, the promise of a job and later marriage, Izabela arrived in Kansas City about the time Robinson was getting ready to eliminate his other 'slave' . After she moved to Kansas City, Izabela never returned home and only communicated with her parents by e-mail.


She signed a 115-item slave contract that gave Robinson almost total control over every aspect of her life, including bank accounts.


Izabela Lewicka disappeared at about the time Robinson found Suzette Trouten. Trouten was a bored licensed practical nurse who lived a double life, nurse by day, submissive slave by night. She frequented many of the same Web sites and chat rooms where John lurked and it wasn't long before the two found each other.


Trouten also cultivated online friendships with other subs from around the world who also knew she had gone to Kansas to be with John Robinson. She also signed a 115 point Slave Contract. Some of the women she traded instant messages with daily thought it was strange that she no longer appeared online.


The 'Slavemaster' , a balding, pudgy father of 4, exploited the Internet's world of sadomasochism. By haunting chat rooms, he pinpointed vulnerable women looking for romance and stalked them on-line, convincing them of his maturity, sensitivity, and financial stability. Most alarming is how he selected and lured his victims and how willingly they responded. Robinson expanded the hunting ground, techniques, and technology of the sexual predator.



In the book, 'Anything You Want Me To Be' law enforcement officers and prosecutors reveal what can go wrong in a world where relationships are devoid of physical contact, showing how easily we can be drawn into the underground of cybercrime. As technology proliferates, so do opportunities for criminals like Robinson. A cautionary tale about strangers and false intimacy.



http://www.courttv.com/trials/robinson/
-- Anyone You Want Me to Be: A True Story of Sex and Death on the Internet by John Douglas
Tags: d/sonlineslavemaster:acautionarytale | Edit Tags
Wednesday October 4, 2006 - 08:00pm (EST)

sub-zone Aftercare: The A-E for Online Doms and subs!(repost)


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IMPORTANT:
sub-zone Aftercare for Doms and subs!

WOW....*grins*...there's a few good zones happening out there... that's GREAT! On a more serious not though, there are also a few drops and crashes happening ...and this would be a bad thing ...

REPEAT AFTER me....

..." A BAD THING" ...

There is almost inevitably a crash or drop at some point, for one of two main reasons:

1) The Dom is unsure of the length of time He needs to provide aftercare

2) The sub hasn't advised Him of what is happening.

For example:

" wow.... talk about timing... i had a particularly intense subspace this past week with Sir.... and i have been "suffering" (emotional, withdrawn, confused, floating) for DAYS since....thank you for posting this... it has helped me immensely in understanding what the hell has been going on with me... *smiles*" (from 'c')



*smiles*.. thanks for posting this c... it brings me nicely to the next stage... Aftercare:

1) Lots of gentle stroking and praise will help to bring the sub down gently (the magic words.... ' you did so well... good girl ... beautiful girl... Master is so proud of you....' and of course anything relating to 'love' ... works very very well)

2) Please note.. the more intense the experience the longer it may take for the chemicals to re-balance .. *ahem*.... like DAYS!!!!!! ... Sooooo.. an hour of cuddling just ain't gonna cut it! Be prepared for the 'long haul' Doms!

3) subs ... track what is going on ... and CALL HIM if He is not in the house ...LET HIM KNOW ... a phone call; His voice will get you through each phase. Do NOT be a martyr ... remember He took you there, it's His responsibility to get you back safely!

4) Doms ... talk over the experience .. " have her close her eyes.. and SOFTLY in 'that Dom voice' .. walk her through..the experience .. let her know all that transpired and how she did .. walk her through it and let her know at each step of it how she responded, how she made Him feel .... This is what you (the sub) did.. this is how you (the sub) made ME feel! In short.. this is how intense MY feeling were for you (the sub); this is how you pleasured ME! How powerful it made ME feel "

5) Doms ...it takes time for the chemicals to balance again.. especially after a very intense experience. You need to instruct Your sub to contact You the moment she feels tense, jittery, anxious, depressed or frightened or just generally 'over-emotional'.. remember, this may be even up to a couple of days after the experience. Physical presence, touch and voice are essential.

6) Doms ... contact for regular 'check ups' on her. If at work.. a phone call to her is very, very helpful. Instructions and directions are very helpful to refocus and redirect her.. eg: talk her through it and reaffirm again..perhaps instruct her in small tasks.. ' when you get off the phone I want you to make a cup of tea ... get your blanky' etc. Instruct her in small services for You (the latter also helps the Dom to avoid 'Dom drop'.)

7) Physical reassurance.. ok now this may sound silly.. but a 'special' soft polar fleece throw rug or baby blanket scented with His aftershave or soap is invaluable. Think of it like a 'woobie' or safety blanket. It is the blanket that HE uses to wrap her in when His physical presence is not there... associated only with T/their time together and for her comfort and reassurance..*lol*... not just any old blanky will do .. this is the SPECIAL BLANKY! (*see pic above for my "Aragorn blanky*) if i am travelling interstate or overseas.. the blanky (*woobie) comes with me.

For online... Doms: Here is the ABCDE

a) Aftercare: send Your sub something soft and plush or fleecy (eg: throw rug or teddy bear).. sprayed with Your aftershave or washed with Your shampoo..

b)Blanky or bear MUST be fully dried before posting to her!!

c) Check she has it close when talking to You over phone or im.

d) Don't leave her until she is settled. ............. AND........

e) Ensure that she has wrapped herself in it toward the end of the communication


8) TALK... COMMUNICATE ... STAY CLOSE ...BE OPEN AND SHARE WHAT IS HAPPENING.

i hope this helps in some small way.

Every couple will develop T/their own 'rituals' .

Perhaps some of Y/you will share Y/yours?



Tags: subzone:aftercare#2 | Edit Tags

Friday September 28, 2007 - 11:25am (EST) Edit | Delete

Comments

(5 total) Post a Comment

Thank you. Wish everyone who calls themselves dominant, and seeks to own another would read this. Can't count the ones who thought it took too long for me to regain myself after a particularly deep encounter.

Thursday September 27, 2007 - 07:32pm (MDT) Remove Comment

great blog raven as always hugggs ya

Thursday September 27, 2007 - 09:38pm (EDT) Remove Comment

thanks for reposting, sis... i am going to make sure that the next time i have "private time" with a Sir, He reads this ~ even if He is an experienced Sir... *cheshire cat grin to one of my favorite sisters, along with a huge hugggggggggg, smooooooochies on her cheek, many twirls and dips, and of course tweaks on her cute lil nose*

Thursday September 27, 2007 - 09:45pm (EDT) Remove Comment

Bah. I still say toss her a box of cookies and tell her to "walk it off".

Friday September 28, 2007 - 12:28am (CDT) Remove Comment

if They only knew that sometimes if You drop her...there is no picking her back up again...nice post, oh gorgeous one...xo

Saturday September 29, 2007 - 08:10am (PDT)

On Topping, Bottoming & Scening


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On " Topping, Bottoming & Scening,"

I take this phrase from a self-professed dom's (spd) blog:

"If you have to proclaim to the world, either verbally, physically or in written word that you are something, chances are you're probably not that something".

I have read sfpd's blogs from beginning to end and after careful analysis of the material and proclamations contained there, i tend to agree with his sentiment. I guess it's hard to sneak a sub past the Missus or your Mum ....but I digress. One thing that really struck me in reading spd's blog was the terminology used to describe the D/s relationship. There are three particular terms he uses that stand out like a dog's proverbial.

Topping
Bottoming; and
Scening

Some of Y/you may have noticed that these words rarely if ever make it onto these pages. i would like to provide some background to how i perceive these terms and why i do not believe they have any relevance in a 24/7, D/s relationship which incorpates physical, psychological, emotional and spitiual exchange between two people on a mid to long term basis. i stress, this is purely my opinion, but i do note it is shared by many fellow Australians in D/s relationships/households.

It is important to note that these three terms and their origins are association with the 'Old Guard' Leathermen sub-culture or 'scene' (insert peace sign here, man) which emerged in the late 1950's-60's in the USA. So, in real terms this Leather scene and it's terminology and BDSM rituals are a relatively recent and culturally specific contemporary pop-culture phenomenon that originated in the mid- 20th century ... quite some time after early European, Middle Eastern, Asian and African writings and artistic renditions of the world of slaves and Master's, punishments and tortures and fetishes.

Below are some definitions and context of the three terms.

TOPPING:

In BDSM a top is a partner who takes the active, dominant role in sexual play. The top performs acts such as these upon the bottom.

A top filling the dominant role is not necessarily a dominant, and vice versa. The top may sometimes even be the partner who is following instructions, i.e., he tops when, and in the manner, requested by the bottom. A person who applies sensation or control to a bottom, but does so to the bottom's explicit instruction is a service top.


BOTTOMING:

In the terms of BDSM scenes or interactions, a bottom refers to the person who takes on the submissive role for the duration of a scene. This term is associated with being on the receiving end of bondage, discipline, and sadism. (Note: this term has significant connotative differences from submissive or slave.) They may be involved in such acts as bondage, flagellation, humiliation or servitude from the top.

The term originates from a more general use of the word, especially among the gay male community, to mean receptive partner.

A bottom is not necessarily submissive, and vice versa. At one end of the continuum is a submissive who enjoys taking orders from a dominant but does not receive any physical stimulation. At the other is a bottom who enjoys the intense physical and psychological stimulation but does not submit to the person delivering them

In a D/s relationship there are no intermittently prescribed 'roles', there is no 'game' there are no 'acts' ... the D/s relationship is life ... it is a RELATIONSHIP with all that that entails.

D/s is a significant, if not a fundamental basis between the two people living together ... not something pulled out for occasional 'play' .

Neither is D/s based solely in sexual play, rather, it the way the two relate on a day to day basis.

Oh.. and btw, D/s does not always include the activity of BDSM...the activity with which these terms are associated. So please don't always assume every D/s couple is into flagellation or other forms of inflicting pain.


TOPPING FROM THE BOTTOM:

Topping from the bottom is a related BDSM term, meaning a person who wants to be dominated but simultaneously direct the top to do it according to their wishes. This is usually pre-arranged before a scene.

In a D/s relationship there are nor 'roles', there is no 'D/s game' there are no 'acts' or 'performers'... the D/s relationship is life... REAL LIFE ... There is a Dominant, there is a submissive. End of story.

SCENING:

It may help to think of a scene as the BDSM equivalent of what might be considered a romantic interlude or erotic encounter...A scene can take place in private between two people, or in a club where it can be viewed by an audience.

In Context:

Before you decide to scene with a person make sure you know what it is you are wanting to do with this scene. Make sure that your desires in play areas match your prospective partner. Use things such as play lists and scene negotiation forms to aid these discussions of kink compatibility. A first scene is not the time to try something you've never used before. The actions which will be done in the scene should be discussed with the people involved.


In my 20 yr plus relationship:

W/we did not 'scene'.
W/we did not 'play D/s games'
W/we lived, loved and what W/we did flowed naturally.
There was no pre-planning ... in over 20 years in a D/s relationship i should certainly hope not...*lol*.
I don't know of any vanilla's that term their sexual activities as 'scening'' either.

Perhaps some P/people in 24/7 do make an appointment and pre-discuss a 'scene' they would like to 'play' ... but to this one, it is an entirely foreign concept... *lol*... W/we just did whatever came naturally..whatever flowed .

So for this one... the terms 'topping, bottoming and scening' have no place outside a BDSM or dungeon party or gathering; they certainly don't fit anything that has ever taken place within my relationships or in the home.


References:

Gebhard, P.H. Fetishism and sadomasochism.
Science and Psychoanalysis, (1969).15:71-80.

Gibson,Ian
The English vice: Beating, sex, and shame in Victorian England and after. Duckworth, London. (1978)


Marcus, Steven. The Other Victorians: A Study of Sexuality and Pornography in Mid-Nineteenth Century England. NY: Basic Books, 1966.

Baldwin,GuyTHE OLD GUARD (The History of Leather Traditions)

Robert V. Bienvenu II, Ph.D.American Fetish -

www.tdl.com/~thawley/oldgd.html

Comments

(14 total) Post a Comment

I'll leave out my normal warning that I'm an idiot when it comes to D/s because by now I'm certain that everyone is quite aware of it. Instead, might I offer in my humble opinion, that "Topping, bottoming, and Scening" sound an awful lot like roleplaying. Such as what those in Lit do when they want to pretend they've finally come across their fantasy and act out any and all parts of that fantasy. Whereas, from what I've been educated to through this blog page, a true D/s relationship is very much a way of life and not an occassional situation brought out when most convenient.

Friday January 26, 2007 - 06:40am (EST) Remove Comment

i will admit that in the past, i have done my fair share of "sceneing" ~ but that was waaaaaaaaaaay before i discovered my submissive nature for the first time. now, everything comes very naturally for me ~ i don't need someone to lay out a scene for me online... it flows like a river... thank you once again blonderavensis for educating U/us on another timely topic... *hugggggggggggggs you tightly*

Friday January 26, 2007 - 06:54am (EST) Remove Comment

blonde, you have an uncanny way of seeing the things that i have had on my mind..the mentle, emotional,spiritual,and phisical aspects of a D/s realtionship is not a "Lifestyle"...Lifestyle is how much you make a yr, how many ppl in the house you have to distribute those funds to, and how you do it...it has nothing to do with D/s, or i should say, the essance of that realationship..and it burns me up when ppl attribute D/s and BD/SM in the same breath, no they are not the same things, i have a friend that is in a 24/7 D/s relationship, and has never been spanked, and has only seen nipple clamps online...so, again, it is 2 different things (that do work togeather if your bent that way)
Brilliant as always...

Friday January 26, 2007 - 07:43am (EST) Remove Comment

I enjoy the topping part most, but the bottom is ok on days when Im lazy and don't want to do ALL the work ;)

Friday January 26, 2007 - 09:24am (EST) Remove Comment

excellent post sister as have been the past ones in regards to Daddy Doms series. having been a slave for a lil over 9yrs myself i can honestly say that what W/we had was planned before it happened. it just flowed and happened. maybe my former Master had a basic plan but it did change during the course of set time frames W/we were together. to each T/their own i say. what works for O/one doesnt always for the other. i may be a slave but i do have my times, that i would like to be in charge and purrhaps do the pleasing "my way". but that doesnt mean i want to top. i just want to please my Master. but in the long run Master still is the one that either allows or not to happen. anyways .. have a fabulous day sister .. take care and stay safe .. thank you so much for all the wonderful informative posts .. wish i had time to leave comments on all of them .. but know that they are read by me. each and everyone .. ~hugs n love~ ange rouge{CM}

Friday January 26, 2007 - 09:15am (CST) Remove Comment

correction .. darn nails .. *wasnt planned*

Friday January 26, 2007 - 09:16am (CST) Remove Comment

Put so clearly, i fully agree. If you want to "play" at the lifestyle then the terms apply, but to live it, they do not. Thank you for your clarity.

Friday January 26, 2007 - 09:17am (PST) Remove Comment

raven, nicely said. i may be new to D/s, but the idea of doing any of this has never come up with Legion. thank you for clarifying what i've seen on other's blogs. hugggs.

Friday January 26, 2007 - 01:36pm (EST) Remove Comment

I've been away and unable to respond before, but wanted you to know this is an ecellent series you've done, especially loving the Daddy Dom posts. It's something there is indeed a lot of misunderstanding about, and now I think people will have a better grasp of it. I identify with this position, and I found myself nodding and smiling a lot through this. Good job, o thief of shiny things!

Friday January 26, 2007 - 10:47am (PST) Remove Comment

chuckles ... you always have so much fun educating U/us don't you?

Friday January 26, 2007 - 02:21pm (EST) Remove Comment

Hi Raven thanks for this post, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this, I have never really understood the terms tops and bottoms before, I always thought they were 'players' and your post makes that even clearer:)
Hugs rose

Saturday January 27, 2007 - 09:46am (NZDT) Remove Comment

I don't think those words have any place in any form of relationship beyond the role playing fantasy games played out online where HotSlut4U is a 21yr old hot blonde with 38DDs who wants to be your fucktoy and is not in reality a 45yr old truck driver from Iowa who just wants to get off.

Saturday January 27, 2007 - 01:15pm (NZDT) Remove Comment

i always think of the terms tops, bottoms and scene as distinguishing those playing from those who quite simply...just live ... Y/you know, like a$50 entry to a club, distinguish which O/one Y/you are today.. top or bottom..and discuss a scene and the rules with the opposite 'role player'..and don't forget to wear Y/you fave bondage gear.... Ohhhh let's play Twister instead! But i guess when Y/you understand where the terms originated it makes sense. I jes'lurv San Francisco..lol..and people wonder why i live the a month a year!!!

Saturday January 27, 2007 - 10:23pm (EST) Remove Comment

The pontificating that many of the spd's do in public is a constant source of amusement to Me. you have picked a wonderful topic and exposed it in your usual capable manner. Well done

Saturday January 27, 2007 - 10:34pm (EST)