Fancy a change? There’s plenty of ways to modify or take away one of the five senses. So, your sensation play need never be the same twice!
Sometimes, it’s good to go back to the basics. Introducing something as simple as a blindfold can make your sex life just that little bit more exciting and interesting. When it comes to sensory deprivation, restriction of sight and speech are the most common choices. Sensory deprivation is often used as a method to enhance all other sensations, but can also be enjoyed as a standalone activity. There are a variety of different tools available to help you limit or restrict the senses.
Safety First
As with all kinks, there are things to keep in mind for safety’s sake. Paying attention to your partner’s safety is paramount, so avoid anything that could impair your judgement, such as alcohol or drugs. The same goes for you partner – alcohol numbs the senses and could result in serious injuries. As tempting as a few drinks may seem, skip the beers and enjoy a sober and safe session instead.
Be careful with hoods, gags, and any other items that are likely to restrict breathing. If you take away your partner’s ability to speak, you will need to find a new way for them to use their safeword. Non-verbal safe words can involve snapping fingers, having your partner hold a bell that they can ring when they want the scene to end or honking a bicycle horn. Discuss this with your partner beforehand, and double check that you are both aware of the sign/signal and that when it is given the session is stopped completely.
And finally, do not leave your gagged/restrained/hooded partner unattended at any time.
Our Favourite Tools
Blindfold
Blindfolding your partner will make for an intense experience. Restricting their sight will heighten their sense of touch, and they will only focus on what you’re doing and how great it feels. In addition, the feel of the material against the skin will only increase the sensory high.
We recommend: Tease and Please Padded Blindfold (€5.75, kinky.ie)
Hood
A hood should only be used by the more experienced BDSM enthusiast, as they can limit sight, smell, taste, and hearing. Hoods are a great choice for those who would like to experiment with mummification and/or objectification. When using a hood, always keep your eyes open for any problematic signs, especially as they can restrict breathing.
We recommend: Fetish Fantasy Spandex Open Mouth Hood (€28.78, kinky.ie)
Gas Mask
This is another tool for those who like to torture their partners. A gas mask can potentially restrict four out of the five senses (all but touch). However, they are most commonly used as a tool for breath play. I think it goes without saying that this not the ideal choice for beginners!
Ball Gag
Ball Gags will incapacitate the mouth and restrict your partner’s ability to taste. Ball gags aren generally not recommended for beginners as they restrict breathing and can be painful on the jaw. However, the Fetish Fantasy Breathable Ball Gag (€23.01, kinky.ie) is perfect for those new to being gagged. The gag is made of a non-toxic rubber ball with several breathing holes for safety and comfort.
Ready to take it to the next level? We recommend: Fetish Fantasy Inflatable Ball Gag (€34.54, kinky.ie) https://www.kinky.ie/fetish-fantasy-inflatable-ball-gag.html
Bit Gag
Bit Gags are perfect for those who love a bit of horsing around. These are more commonly used by Pony Play enthusiasts, as the large O-rings on either side of the gag can be used to add reins, restraints, and other equipment for your scene. However, many prefer Bit Gags as they can fit a little more comfortably in the mouth.
We recommend: Fetish Fantasy Series Silicone Bit Gag (€23.02, kinky.ie)
Tape
If you like the idea of restraining your partner, but are intimidated by the look of bondage gear, bondage tape might be the perfect tool for you. Bondage tape is a soft, strong, and easy to use – it sticks to itself so you can just about use it on any body part, any way you like!
We recommend: Fifty Days of Play – Bondage Tape (€10.94, kinky.ie)
Rope
Rope is kinky, fun, and a staple play for most BDSM enthusiasts; it can be used to wrap, suspend, decorate, or restrain a person. Although all forms of rope and string can be used for bondage, we recommend investing in some good quality rope. Silk ropes are friction free, feel smooth against the skin, and are extremely comfortable – an ideal rope for beginners.
We recommend: Fetish Fantasy Japanese Silk Bondage Rope (€17.26, kinky.ie)
Handcuffs
One of the easiest ways to restrain your partner and keep them in their place! There are a wide variety of handcuffs available from faux fur to decorative wrist cuffs to something a little more sinister. For those new to bondage and restraining, fluffy handcuffs provide extra padding and comfort.
We recommend: Furry Fun Cuffs (€14.40, kinky.ie)