WHAT IS CONSENT?
Consent is like tea – both should be sipped responsibly
Welcome to the American Ruin FLOG, where we delve into the intriguing world of BDSM, kink, and everything in between. In this post, we're going to explore a concept that is crucial to any healthy, respectful relationship or encounter - consent! In fact, the subject of consent is so important, that we decided to make our very first Flog Post about it;
So, what is consent, and why is consent important? We’re going to keep it short and simple with an analogy to define consent that is easy to digest: Consent is like tea - both should be sipped responsibly. So, grab your Kapala, coffee or cuppa and let's share a drink.
Have you ever shared a cup of coffee or tea with a friend or loved one? Think back to one of those special times. Whether you were offered the cup, or you were the one offering, I’m sure there were some common manners you both observed. If your friend didn’t want tea, you didn’t pressure them to try it. You may have discussed what kind of tea you like before selecting. If you choose one type of tea, your friend didn’t serve you something different than what you asked for. If you tried a new flavor but didn't like it, your friend didn’t berate you for wasting their tea or time. If your friend decided they didn’t like the drink after all and stopped midway through, you wouldn’t make them finish it.
Now keeping those manners in mind, imagine you are invited to a kinky tea party. You are excited to try a variety of new flavors. Upon your arrival, you see an assortment of teapots and cups laid out, each representing a different kink or fetish. Some are mild, while others are… more intense. As you navigate this tantalizing tea party, one thing becomes abundantly clear: consent is the sweetener that makes the tea oh so delicious.
Choosing Your Cup
Just as you would select a cup of tea based on your preferences, it's essential to use consent to choose your kinks and activities with care. Understand your boundaries and desires and communicate them openly with your partner(s).Whether you prefer a light brew, or a strong infusion, or no tea at all consent ensures that all both parties are on the same page.
The Tea Blend
Consent is like a tea blend. It's all about finding the perfect balance of ingredients. You and your partner(s) need to discuss your wants, limits, and boundaries before engaging in any activities. Like a well-crafted tea blend, consent requires clear communication, trust, and mutual understanding of the components. Remember, a blend that's too weak or too strong can leave a bitter taste.
The Sip
In the BDSM realm and beyond, consent is ongoing. It's not a one-time agreement but a continuous conversation. Just as you take small sips of tea to savor the flavor, engage in activities gradually, ensuring everyone involved is comfortable and consents to each step. Check-in, communicate, and adjust as necessary. Remember, no one likes to get scalded by a hot cup of tea!
So, as you embark on your BDSM journey, or continue on in your growth and evolution, remember to communicate desires openly and respect boundaries (other people's boundaries and your own)! By understanding that consent is an ongoing conversation, we can all create safer and more satisfying experiences for everyone. Cheers!
