People … and their bodies … are endlessly complex. Here is an incomplete list of situations that may require a change or adaptation of your plans and/or approach:

• Differences in body size and shape
• Different primary and secondary sex characteristics
• Loose flesh or skin
• Low limb mobility / low flexibility
• Hypermobility
• Lack of sensation (nerve damage, etc.)
• Hypersensitivity
• Chronic Pain (SFN, MD, etc.)
• Inability to stand or sit for a long time or at all
• Inability to assume a given position (flexibility or strength issues, injury, surgery, other reasons…)
• Potential for loss of consciousness mid-scene (diabetes, narcolepsy)
• Blood conditions (low blood circulation, blood thinners, etc.)
• Breathing issues or complications (asthma, chest restriction, heavy allergy, etc…)
• Allergy to grasses
• Pregnancy
• Amputation / limb difference
• Mental conditions/differences (ADHD, ASD, OCD, Claustrophobia) **
• Trauma or neurological or mental conditions that may lead to unexpected reactions
• History of gender dysphoria
• Other situations, conditions or needs that require adaptation.

Any one of us could find ourselves in a position such as these at some point in our lives. That does not change our human needs for attention, connection, play, and excitement. So think of this as an opportunity to practice skills that could be valuable to any one of your play partners, including yourself!

People usually learn ties from a resource that demonstrates them on a person or mannequin that may be very different from your current tying partner. Because of this, some modification is almost always necessary. There are a few general techniques that will allow you to modify ties, giving you the skills to tie a wider variety of people.

By taking the time and effort to understand your partner and any specific needs they may have, you demonstrate that you care more about them than whatever vision you might have in your head. It is by our actions that we are judged, and the actions of (1) seeking to understand and then (2) adapting your plans and your ties to a person’s specific needs are part of demonstrating your integrity and care as a rigger, and as a human being.

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** Terminology used in this article is informed by APA 7 and the DSM 5. Language and terminology surrounding medical and mental conditions is constantly changing and can be socially complex. Our intention is to respect the autonomy and humanity of a wide range of people while also being clear and descriptive.

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Kajira Blue with wrists tied, waving