Join Gestalta for an immersive weekend workshop designed specifically for those ready to take their first steps into the air.

During this dynamic workshop, Gestalta will introduce you to the art of shibari suspension, exploring its diverse styles and practical applications. You will develop a deeper understanding of the motivations behind practising suspension and gain insights into the unique perspectives of both tying partners.

Under the guidance of Gestalta, you’ll establish a strong foundation for a basic suspension; we’ll thoroughly examine the essential safety elements, delve into the thought processes involved in suspension and cultivate the necessary mental space for an enjoyable experience. By the end of the workshop, you’ll have acquired valuable knowledge and practical experience to apply in your shibari practice.

Gestalta and their tying partner will demonstrate straightforward body positions used in suspension, engage in discussions about the challenges that bottoms often encounter in these positions and provide expert tips and tricks to improve your performance as both a top and bottom. They will also give advice for communicating clearly and effectively with your partner whilst tying.

To make the most of this workshop, we recommend attending with a partner you’re already familiar with. It’s preferable if you know a suspendible upper body harness that you’re comfortable with, and have practised it together. Gestalta will individually review each participant’s harness at the beginning of the class, offering helpful suggestions for improvement if needed. You’ll also learn how to discern whether a harness is suitable for suspension or not.

This workshop promises an engaging and collaborative learning environment, where you’ll connect with fellow shibari enthusiasts and expand your understanding of suspension. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your skills and take your passion for shibari to the next level with Gestalta’s guidance!

Prerequisites

• Ability to tie a suspendible upper body harness that both partners are comfortable with (if in doubt, a hands front harness is recommended, but this will depend on the preferences of the person being tied)

• Basic awareness of anatomy in ropes (for example nerves, circulation and performing hand checks)

• Single column tie, and basic frictions (e.g. half hitch, x-friction, l-friction)

• Experience with tying on the floor, including rope handling, placement and tension

You must attend this workshop as a pair.

What to Bring

• minimum of 8 ropes (7.5 – 8 metres in length) plus some short pieces if you have them.

• Comfortable clothing: something you are able to move easily in. Please avoid jeans, belts, and underwired bras etc.

• Questions, and an open mind.

Content may include, but is not limited to:

• Reviewing harnesses for safety

• Attaching suspension lines

• Locking suspension lines safely and efficiently

• Different types of suspension equipment and how to change your technique accordingly.

• Suspension line management

• Clear and effective communication with your partner

• Moving and lifting your partner’s body

• The uses of hip harnesses

• Thinking a step ahead

• How to get down