Blindfold
- This article is part of the SM-201 Macropedia
A blindfold is usually a piece of cloth, leather or latex, tied around a person's head, covering their eyes to disable the wearer's sight. It is usually worn when the eyes are in a closed state and thus prevents the wearer from opening them.
The sexual arousal by a partner whom one is unable to see due to artificial means, such as being blindfolded or having sex in total darkness is called Amaurophilia
Blindfolds can be used in various BDSM and non-BDSM applications.
- As a Sleep mask: To block out light when sleeping, especially during air travel, or for those who sleep during the day. It is believed that shutting out light allows the user to achieve a deeper level of sleep.
- In children's games, such as "Pin the Tail on the Donkey" and when hitting a "piñata".
- During martial arts to encourage reliance on other senses, such as touch or hearing.
- As a sensory deprivation tool for meditation (to focus attention on oneself rather than outside imagery).
- A kidnapping victim, hostage, prisoner, etc. may be blindfolded to avoid later identification of location(s) or people. (A common alternative to this usage is the use of a hood instead.)
- Sometimes guests (who are not captured) are blindfolded with consent so they can not identify directions to a clandestine meeting or location.
- By a person before a firing squad for execution.
Sexology
- Sexual blindfold use is common in BDSM and non-BDSM environments and is one of the initial things recommended for sexual variety. Blindfolds (along with feathers and handcuffs) are commonly sold in novelty "bondage kits" marketed toward non-BDSM practitioners.
BDSM
During BDSM situations by the submissive. Types can range, though they are typically leather, with a buckle in the back, sometimes locking.
Use of a blindfold is said to enhance the remaining senses of the wearer, focusing attention on sound, smells and physical contact. This increased awareness is said to allow for greater excitement and anticipation by eliminating visual cues, as one cannot see what to expect. It also requires trust of the submissive, with all the emotional ramifications that entails.
Conversely, a dominant may enjoy extra control, focusing the attention of the submissive where they desire. For the submissive it takes the focus of attention off the visual and physical, moving it to the cerebral. Eliminating that primary "distraction" is said to allow for a more perceptive experience.
Opaque contact lenses may also be used as way to a person sight.
Handkerchiefs
One of the easiest type of blindfolds to use is the cloth handkerchief of the Wild West of United States history. The true advantage of the handkerchief is in its ability to be thrown dirty into the washing machine. After a few moments tumble in the dryer, it can be taken clean and somewhat sterile, and it's ready to blindfold yet another heroine.
Click here to see how to fold a handkerchief into a gag or blindfold.
See also
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