Each year seems to bring a wave of new trends related to people’s intimate lives—and 2025 is no exception.
Experts predict a rise in human-like sex dolls, relationships with AI chatbots, and solo polyamory—a form of non-monogamy where individuals maintain multiple relationships while prioritizing independence.
But one trend that continues to gain momentum is shibari—a form of Japanese rope bondage that blends eroticism with intricate artistry. Despite its growing popularity, experts warn it’s not without risks.
According to goop, the type of BDSM ‘originated as an underground form of culturally specific erotic fantasy play that centers on the erotic nostalgia of bygone eras’.
One person to have gotten into the shibari is Amy Winship, who spoke to Tyla about it.
More and more couples are branching out in their sex lives (Getty Stock Image)
She noted that consent is a huge part of the fetish, saying: “Consent is really sexy and asking ‘Can I kiss you here’ and ‘Can I touch you like that’ whether you’re engaging in anything from anal sex for the first time or heavier bondage, asking first and talking it through is good to see where your line is.”
As I’m sure you can imagine, sex trends like this do come with their risks so it’s important that both you and your sexual partner know about the potential hazards in advance.
Rope burn
Any sexual play involving ropes, of course, come with a rope burn risk. This happens when there’s excessive friction between the rope and skin, Shibari Academy explains.
Symptoms of rope burn include redness, irritation, and potential blistering or bleeding.
Circulation loss
There are risks to be aware of when trying out shibari (Getty Stock Image)
Should a person tie the rope too tightly, then this could result in circulation loss. According to the Shibari Academy, the human body can typically last up to 30 minutes with reduced circulation. This timeframe may be different for those who have health conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes, however.
Symptoms of circulation loss include getting a sensation of ‘pins and needles’, pale or blue skin coloring, cold fingers or toes, numbness, and swelling, says the Cleveland Clinic.
Nerve damage
“Nerve damage occurs due to prolonged compression, excessive force, and/or repetitive strain on nerves,” stated the Shibari Academy. Apparently, this can happen during suspensions, which is why it advises that people avoid this.
Symptoms include one part of the limb tingling, sharp shooting pains, numbness, and weakness or difficulty moving the affected area.