A FULL STATEMENT…
Dearest Readers,
There is no denying that since the '50 Shades of Grey' book came out in 2011, there has been an ever growing interest in activities that whilst are still seen as unusual and perhaps such fantasies should only be played out in the privacy of ones home, they are becoming more and more popular- the community for likeminded individuals is growing and becoming more mainstream and a little less taboo than it once was. You can throw an Ann Summers party for example with all of your friends, or even just casually walk in to a store off the high street and feast your eyes on toys to enhance personal pleasure... And great, you have said toys and are now exploring your sensuality and sexuality, but whats next? Are you aware of the risks involved? I refer back to 50 Shades because it is an appalling example of "kink" and everything the community represents. It doesn't touch on consent, safety or aftercare just to name a few topics... But this is a very popular, recognisable and readily available "go to" for an idea to some people who don't know any better or fully understand this lifestyle of what might happen behind our extremely private closed doors that is full of consenting adults. Yes, adults. Vetted, known to us, over the age of 18, respectful adults, who have every right to safely and consensually learn about how to use their newly purchased toys to avoid any injuries without the prying eyes of the neighbourhood. It isn't anyones business what happens in a room that doesn't concern nor affect them.
We offer a safe space for Adults within the LGBTQIA+ community to learn predominantly about the art of Shibari, also known as Kinbaku, an ancient Japanese rope bondage technique which dates back to 1603. It's imperative to know about the human anatomy, what nerves and feelings to look out for and what not to do! I'm sure many people have dabbled in bedroom bondage, but how many people actually know how dangerous it can be if executed incorrectly? We're here to TEACH, we're here to offer an environment where those who are interested in knowing how to do things safely, are more than welcome and can connect with like minded individuals if they wish and can share tips and tricks over a cup of tea and some biscuits. At times that events are occasionally hosted, you'll usually find us sitting around in our gym/yoga attire practicing and talking about consent, sharing stories, or helping one and other. It is referred to as a "pop-up" space... It's not a full time business. We're just passionate individuals who love to share our knowledge to make the world a safer place.
We appreciate the word "Dungeon" sounds scary, but in reality, it's just a word used to advertise to a minority collective of people who wish to better understand their personal interests. We run workshops by community leaders who are experts in their field on popular topics such as sadomasocism, wax play and sharps to name a few... These topics are forever on the rise and it is SO important that those who need access to it can get the vital information about where it is safe to hit and where isn't so permanent damage isn't caused or how to use said toys and how to make your journey in YOUR private interests a better, more understood and again, consensual adventure. Communication and consent is always at the forefront and that is something we preach. And I must stress, this is not a sexual space, this is an educational space only. I say this because whilst attendees may be learning all about their sexual preferences and personal interests, you can only learn about them here, not physically act on them. But hopefully with our help, you can go home and confidently, consensually and safely lean into your new found hobbies.
As for the concerned residents ‘The Echo’ newspaper brought to our attention for the “safety of your children” as we are “dangerous”, I assure you it is quite the opposite! Children are NOT permitted anywhere inside the business, anybody who enters the building is over the age of 18 and has been vetted and are all consenting adults. We have a ring door bell and can see who is at the door before even opening it. We do not advertise what we are or what we do on the exterior of our building for obvious reasons - we do not want to attract unwanted attention and we know that everybody leaves our building with respect for the neighbourhood. We firmly believe that before now, you only would have come across us if you were actively looking for somewhere to learn Shibari or was told about the place first hand. We are ultimately Shibari practitioners, we are educators, we practice safety, we practice consent, we are hopefully helping couples, adults, the LGBTQIA+ community, the minority to feel safe, loved, heard and welcome in a judgment free space.
Kind Regards,
The Estuary Dungeon & Shibari Lounge owners
