Unlocking the Art of Shibari: Marie Sauvage on Rope Play, Trust, and Self-Discovery
- Filip
- Apr 9
- 4 min read
Shibari. It’s the ancient Japanese art of rope bondage that’s woven itself into modern kink culture like a tight knot. But there’s so much more to it than just ropes and restraints. In the latest episode of Playful Podcast, we get up close and personal with Marie Sauvage, a seasoned Shibari artist and rigger, who pulls back the curtain on what it really means to tie someone up – and what that act can unlock about trust, vulnerability, and self-exploration.
What is Shibari? More Than Just Knots and Ropes
Marie Sauvage is on a mission to challenge the misconceptions surrounding Shibari. "It's not just about tying someone up. It's about creating a connection, a dialogue," she explains. Shibari is an art form – one that involves intricate rope ties, but more importantly, it’s about creating an intimate bond between the person being tied (the bottom) and the one doing the tying (the rigger). It’s an intense mix of artistry, trust, and sensuality that, when done right, can be a life-changing experience for both parties involved.
For many, Shibari becomes an obsession – a deep dive into the beauty and complexity of human connection through rope. Marie reflects on the experience of both giving and receiving rope play: "It’s not just a physical act. It’s spiritual. It’s mental. It’s about pushing boundaries, but also respecting them."
Why People Get Hooked on Rope Play
It's easy to assume rope play is all about power dynamics. While there’s an undeniable element of control, the deeper layer is about vulnerability. Shibari can unlock a new sense of freedom. For some, it’s a chance to surrender control and relinquish the everyday noise that comes with life. For others, it’s an opportunity to take control in a way they never imagined before.
Marie talks about how she first got into rope play: "I was curious, but I never realized how deep the experience would take me. It’s a form of self-expression, and at the same time, a form of self-discovery. The ropes force you to confront your own emotions and push your limits."
Trust: The Unseen Tie That Holds It All Together
The beauty of Shibari isn’t just in the physical aesthetic of rope wrapping around the body; it's in the trust that is built between the rigger and the person being tied. The ropes are the vehicle for this connection, but trust is the real tie that binds.
Marie emphasizes, "It’s not just about the ropes. It’s about the relationship that’s being formed in that moment. Without trust, the ropes are just ropes. The act of tying someone up requires an immense level of vulnerability from the person being tied, but also from the rigger. It’s a dance of mutual respect and care."
This trust allows for a level of vulnerability that can lead to powerful moments of self-discovery and personal growth. For many, being tied up in Shibari can open the door to deeper introspection, helping them connect with their bodies, emotions, and desires in ways they never have before.
The Self-Discovery You Never Expected
One of the most profound takeaways from Marie’s journey with Shibari is how it can lead to unexpected self-discovery. While many people initially approach rope play as a form of kink or sexual exploration, the process often transcends the physical and enters the realm of emotional and psychological growth.
Shibari allows individuals to explore parts of themselves that they may not have known existed. Whether it’s about letting go of control, testing personal limits, or confronting their own desires and fears, the act of being tied up can often lead to breakthroughs in self-empowerment and emotional resilience.
For Marie, it’s all about stripping away the layers: "Rope play is a form of therapy in some ways. It can help you see yourself in a different light, and that’s something I’ve personally experienced over the years."
Shibari’s Place in Modern Kink Culture
In a world where kink is no longer a taboo subject, Shibari has emerged as a defining art form in the broader landscape of modern sexuality. With its rich cultural history and deep emotional engagement, it has captivated both seasoned practitioners and curious newcomers alike.
Marie Sauvage’s work is at the forefront of this cultural shift, and she’s committed to making sure Shibari isn’t just viewed as a fleeting trend. "It’s an art that’s been around for centuries, but now people are embracing it in a new way. It’s about reclaiming power, redefining vulnerability, and breaking down the barriers that society has built around sexuality."
Is Shibari for You?
If you’re intrigued by Shibari, but unsure where to start, Marie offers some sage advice: "Take it slow. Educate yourself. And most importantly, communicate openly with your partner." Whether you're someone who’s new to rope play or an experienced rigger, it’s essential to approach it with respect, safety, and an open mind.
Ready to get tied up in something more than just knots? Tune into Playful Podcast for the full interview with Marie Sauvage, where she unpacks the ropes – and the deeper connections – that make Shibari an art worth exploring.