I’ve always been in two minds about tying girls down for more serious punishments – birchings, harsher canings, prison strappings.
On the one hand, forcing the young lady to remain in position no matter harsh the stroke has something of an appeal: it’s almost as though the ropes or belts holding her down give her an unfair advantage in withstanding the ordeal.
Yet it could be argued that the ties have an effect entirely the opposite to the one intended. If she’s left unbound, then rather than focussing entirely on the pain of the strokes themselves, her mind is distracted by the effort to stay in position.
And I’ve administered and observed thrashings where, frankly, it would be nigh on impossible for the girl not to move. Tying her down in itself lets her know that this is going to be severe, adding to her dread of what’s to come. Moreover, of course, whilst the flogging proceeds, she also knows there’s no possible means of escape…
And then we get onto more options. Wrists only? Ankles only? Both? Ankles or thighs? A strap across her back, holding her down?
Rope? Leather? Cold metal cuffs?
Decisions, decisions! Any answers from readers, as to what works for you?
I’d strongly recommend against metal or any other hard material used as restraints.
Other than that, I’m torn as well on the subject.
In cases of actual discipline I’ve always believed that part of that discipline is forcing them to stay in place to take it without help, but for play, I’d say why not? It does add a wonderfully wicked feel.
As to deciding whether to use rope or leather, well, I think it depends a bit on the context of the scene. Personally I like rope because it’s the ultimate custom fit, but for some scenes I do think you need the more polished look of the leather…
For me, personally, bondage doesn’t really have any resonance for me, even in the context of spanking. It’s just not part of my own personal kink. I’m not opposed to it if a partner is into it, but it’s not something that turns me on at all.
*Shrug*
On the few occasions when DH has brought out the horse, it has always added to the ordeal. If he’s going to tie me down, I know it’s going to be severe. So, when it’s happening in real life, I can’t say I’m all that thrilled about it. When I’m fantasizing, however, it’s a whole different thing.
I like ankles and wrists, but the added visual of a strap across the back, making it that much harder for the sub to squirm, is nice too.
For me, as a sub, I really like being bound, for multiple reasons. The first is that it’s a physical representation and reminder of Master’s power over me. Even if I wanted to rebel and move around, I can’t. I’m not just following orders, I’m being *made* to do what he wants. And I agree with Lady Koregan about the rope/leather. Rope is awesome for so much, but sometimes leather cuffs, both ankle and wrist, just make me feel so special!