What Is Breath Play?
Breath Play, also known as erotic asphyxiation, is an intense and dangerous activity which uses the intentional restriction of oxygen to heighten sensation and arousal (a fetish known as asphyxiophilia).
The two forms of breath play are blood-restrictive and air-restrictive. It may be one of the most popular kinks, but it's also a form of edge play because of the level of risk involved.
Each form of breath play carries unique risks and experiences, making it crucial for participants to be attentive, well-informed and prepared.
Blood-Restrictive breath play (blood choking)
Blood-restrictive breath play restricts blood getting to the brain through pressure on the carotid arteries in the neck. This leads to a brief, intense ‘head rush’, similar to a quick sense of euphoria, followed by a sense of floating or light-headedness. The effects are typically short-lived once the pressure is released.
Common methods of blood-restrictive breath play include choking - either by using the hands, or equipment like belts or collars, to apply pressure to the sides of the neck.
Applying pressure to the sides of the neck rather than the front of the throat is important. Incorrect pressure applied to the front of the neck can cause damage to the windpipe.
Other potential risks of blood-restrictive breath play include loss of consciousness, stroke, and long-term damage to the blood vessels.
Air-restrictive breath play
Air-restrictive breath play involves blocking the airways to restrict breathing, usually by covering the mouth and nose using the hands (known as hand-smothering), or by using tools like plastic wrap or airtight hoods.
Whichever method is chosen, air-restrictive breath play requires precise control and monitoring.
In stark contrast to the quick rush of blood restriction, air restriction is a slower build-up of pressure and panic, which can be prolonged and intense. The feeling of being unable to breathe may cause a sense of vulnerability and dependency in the bottom. As air restriction leads to hypoxia (an actual lack of oxygen), panic, and potential suffocation, this can be traumatic for the bottom. On the other hand, some kinksters participate for this thrill as a form of fear play, experiencing a surge of adrenaline and endorphins which creates a natural high.
Controlling someone's breath is a profound expression of Dominance and submission. Breath play can deepen the emotional connection between participants because it requires a significant amount of trust, but you need to be really aware of the risks of this kind of play before you engage.
