Overview of courses offered at Nawakai 縄界

Introduction to shibari and the basics

• section i & ii of the introductory course (introduction, basics of shibari)
• origins, history and culture of shibari.
• importance of safety and consent.
• materials required, basic knots and tying techniques.
• section i of the advanced course for beginners (review of basics)
• review of basic knots and tying techniques.
• assessment of prior skills and reinforcement of safety and consent.

Intermediate, advanced techniques and exploration of ties or bindings

• section iii of the introductory course & section ii & iv of the advanced beginners’ course (exploration of links or fasteners, deepening of techniques, and artistic and creative exploration)
• simple, decorative and functional ties.
• exploration of complex knots and use of multiple ropes.
• introduction to artistic expression through shibari.

Inter-partner dynamics, sensual approaches, and suspension safety

• section iv & v of the introductory course & sections iii, v & vi of the advanced beginners’ course (communication and confidence, practice and demonstration, deepening partner dynamics, sensual and erotic approach, safety in suspensions)
• advanced communication, reading body reactions.
• exploration of sensuality and intimacy in shibari.
• basic principles of safe suspension, supervised practice.

Each course ends with a concluding section that summarizes the key points covered, encourages continued independent practice, and reaffirms the commitment to ethical and respectful shibari practice. This breakdown enables students to progress coherently, building on the skills and knowledge acquired at each stage, while tackling more advanced and specialized aspects of shibari as they go along.