Suspension
Suspension in BDSM means lifting a person partially or fully off the ground using rope, webbing, or other restraints attached to an overhead anchor point. It sits at the high end of the risk spectrum for bondage activities. The visual drama and the intense vulnerability of being airborne make suspension deeply compelling, but the consequences of doing it wrong are severe.
There are two main forms. Partial suspension keeps some body weight on the ground while raising part of the body. A person might be in a hip harness with their torso lifted and feet still touching the floor. This reduces strain on the body and gives the rigger more margin for error. Full suspension lifts the entire body off the ground, placing all weight on the rope and rigging hardware. The physical demands on both the tied person and the equipment increase dramatically.
Suspension requires rated gear at every point in the chain. The hard point, whether a ceiling bolt, a purpose-built frame, or a portable A-frame, must handle dynamic loads well above the person's static weight. Rope, rings, and carabiners all need to be load-rated and inspected before every session. A crash mat goes under the suspension point. EMT shears stay within arm's reach for emergency cutdowns.
Training is not optional. Falls cause broken bones. Nerve damage from poorly placed wraps can be permanent. Circulatory issues can develop within minutes in certain positions. Most experienced practitioners in the shibari community recommend one to two years of dedicated floor bondage practice before attempting any suspension.
Hands-on instruction from qualified riggers is the community standard for learning suspension. In-person workshops, mentorship, and peer-rope groups provide feedback that no video or written guide can replicate. For a full breakdown of risk factors and preparation, see our suspension bondage guide.
The appeal of suspension goes beyond aesthetics. For the person being suspended, the loss of ground contact creates a profound sense of surrender and trust. For the rigger, managing the technical demands while staying attuned to their partner's experience is a deep test of skill and connection. That combination of vulnerability and competence is what draws people to this practice despite its difficulty.