The benefits of BDSM: what sexologists do NOT talk about
BDSM is a term (subject) used to describe aspects of role-playing sexuality. Abbreviations include bondage, punishment, dominance, submission and sadomasochism.
Contents of the article:
The practice of BDSM involves one partner taking on the dominant role of the master during sex, while the other acts more submissively. But are such games really based on violent coercion? Absolutely not.
In our article, we talk about how BDSM has penetrated the general population and the subtleties of using it to develop healthy romantic relationships.
Initial perception of practice
BDSM culture began its rapid development in Ancient Greece, Rome and India. However, over time, this type of relationship has become taboo for many.
According to sex coach and relationship expert Kim Anami, BDSM can seem extreme to many people. However, some members of this culture used these methods as a profound way to explore awareness, power, and control over their partners. They also served as a sort of masculine/feminine energy dynamic in the relationship.
The mental health industry has long frowned upon aspects of BDSM due to the media”s active portrayal of fetishists in a less than comforting light. Otherwise, the desire to be tied up was considered a medical disease, a severe mental pathology.
Acceptance of BDSM
Despite the fact that there is a significant portion of people who consider BDSM taboo, there has been a noticeable change in society in understanding the moments of dominance and slavery. This is due to the changing status of the mental health industry and the growing popularity of BDSM in pop culture.
For example, in the best-selling erotic novel Fifty Shades of Gray there was a clear reference to a BDSM environment. Moreover, the protagonist aggressively practiced it. Is this a strong negative? No, that”s not true. Having delved into the plot, you can see that the book, of course, is not shocking on this topic.
Moreover, recent research into BDSM and its effects on the body has shown surprising results. Scientists have found no evidence of harm that BDSM can cause. On the contrary, they have found ways in which it has positive effects on mental and physical health. Sexologists argue that BDSM is not a sign of a deviant psyche or childhood trauma. It”s just sexual interest, a sexual submarine.
Filippo M. Narbi, a researcher at the Institute of Clinical Gender Research in Rome, says almost 80% of BDSM subjects describe their sex lives as traditional. He also noted that such couples have fewer problems in their intimate lives.
Dr. Narby explained that when people introduce sadomasochists into their lives, they know exactly what they want and prefer it. In addition, behind each role is confidence in his sexuality and the unshakable attraction of his partner to him. Now the question arises. “Why should it be an anomaly when people follow the “rules” of the game and have fun doing it?”
Read also: Basics of BDSM, or how to diversify your sex life?
In 2015, in Russia, or more precisely in Moscow and the Moscow region, a survey was conducted of people aged 20-30 years. Its essence was that the participants.
Benefits of BDSM
Many studies have shown that people who actively practice BDSM are completely mentally healthy. What are the positive aspects of this game?
- Reducing stress.
How does BDSM work? The sensations after role-playing are similar to a state of deep harmony and relaxation. Yoga, aerobic exercise, and long-distance running demonstrate these effects. A positive aspect is the reduction in cortisol levels.
In a series of tests conducted at Northern Illinois University, researchers collected saliva samples from dominant and dependent couples in sadomasochistic situations. It was found that the dominant partner had lower cortisol levels after the end of the session.
Reducing hormone production minimizes the risk of heart disease, hypertension, high blood sugar, anxiety, stress, neurological and immune problems. In addition, it prevents digestive pathologies.
- Improving communication skills
Pseudo sexologists
Lisa Hochberger, a licensed clinical social worker who specializes in sex therapy, states that
When planning sexual scenarios, people carefully discuss the introduction, duration and structure of play, and the completion process. It is important to understand that BDSM is a combination of assertiveness and vulnerability. Therefore, they need to remember safety and strict adherence to the rules.
She also says that such habits are the key to a successful relationship. Sex is a game and there is nothing wrong with being submissive or strong in a consensual way.
- Deepening trust
Kim Anami notes that consciously practicing BDSM can be a very powerful experience for couples and can ultimately lead to greater intimacy. Additionally, she believes that every good BDSM journey begins with an open conversation about what both partners are interested in. For example, what are their fantasies? Are they secretly completely turned on by a partner in a submissive or dominant role?
From this, role play scenes can be properly planned and written by yourself. In addition, many practitioners come up with safe words to help them stay within their limits.
Open conversation about such things requires a lot of trust, without embarrassment or fear. It takes a lot more to bring your fantasies to life. Even role-playing games, as it turns out, are on the same level as anal or oral sex.
A study was conducted by the International Society of Sexual Medicine specifically designed to evaluate the mental health of people who enjoy engaging in BDSM. The essence of the study was to determine the key personal qualities of the subjects. These characteristics included relationship commitment, general well-being, and how sensitive they were to rejection compared to controls.
Researchers have found that BDSM practitioners are not only “mentally healthy,” as previously thought, but also more attuned to certain standards of intimacy.
Members of the BDSM group felt more confident in their relationships, were happier, more aware, and more open to new experiences. Scores were excellent for peace of mind and stability in relation to the opinions of others.
All of these characteristics serve as indicators that BDSM is a positive sexual experience. Perhaps this practice is negative for those who approach it with sincere desire, without participation. Such situations form muscular and psychological blocks that prevent pleasure.
