Shibari Academy

Picture the curved body of a shrimp. Now picture your partner's back bent over their crossed legs such that their body resembles that curve. Now imagine being immobilized in that position. 

The Ebi (Shrimp) Tie was part of a set of ties used for torture in old Japan. The prisoners were kept in a shrimp-like position for long periods of time which resulted in difficulty breathing and pain.

This tie starts with a Gote Shibari and a single column tie binding your partner's crossed legs. Next the Gote Shibari is attached to the single column tie, pulling your partner's chest towards their ankles. This tie is not without risk which is why we recommend the following: 

For the person being tied: 

• Be aware of how your body feels when bending over and communicate any discomfort to your partner immediately. 
• Relax

For the person tying: 

• When tying the Gote Shibari, use a Somerville Bowline Single Column Tie to bind the wrists. 
• When tying your partner's ankles together, also use a Somerville Bowline Single Column Tie. 

The Somerville Bowline Single Column Tie can be untied quickly without having to disassemble the rest of the tie. If the person being tied experiences too much discomfort and wants to be untied immediately, this method will allow you to set them free fast. 

Despite its violent beginnings, this is actually quite a fun tie, transporting the person being tied into a different mindset due to being immobilized in such a unique position. Ask them how they feel. Be curious about their experience and make sure you are communicating constantly. 

Have fun tying!

Eve