Sensual Evolution: The History of Kink: The Sensual Evolution of Training

Exploring the sensual evolution of training we discover that beyond the mechanical processes of instruction lies a world of mystery and seduction. Our modern culture of BDSM enthusiasts draws inspiration from a wide variety of historical beliefs and practices with roots in every culture. It is essential that every player, regardless of his or her designation as top, bottom, or switch, be trained in the technical proficiencies of how to be safe, sane, and consensual at the very least. Further investigation into discipline training leads us to reveal opportunities for personal growth, imagination, and deepening the bond we share with our partners. As a community, we also find that training also offers us the foundation to build a future of healthy, responsible players.

Training is the process of instruction and discipline is a type of training especially to instill good behavior, control behavior, and as a means of describing punishment. Self-discipline is the ultimate control of one self’s thoughts and actions.

The true expansiveness of the history and cultures behind training would be a complete history lesson. It has been going on since the beginning of civilization, tradition, beliefs, information and skills being passed on from person to person. Today in our society we can train in everything from spiritual practices to business management, enlightening our minds and transforming our bodies into amazing works of art. Focusing on a few of the more widely practiced training elements, we look at the geisha, the old guard, personal servitude, slavery, apprenticing, gorean fiction, child rearing, and obedience training for pets. Over this vast collection of styles and functions, the purpose is to take what elements are useful and attractive into your own imagination.

Discipline training in the erotic arts encompasses controlling behavior and actions, corrective punishment, personal servitude, household services, performance, role-playing, and sensual or sexual pleasures. Our priority must always be to do things in a safe, sane, and consensual manner. There's nothing sexy about a trip to the hospital. Getting to know the person you are playing with on an equal level is as important as the negotiations themselves. Limits are useless if the person you are with does not respect them. Learning the right way to wield whips, give a good spanking, perform suspension bondage, pierce, cut, or light someone on fire can not only save a life, it allows you to be more comfortable however close you dare to dance on the edge.

Books, articles, workshops, private instruction, and apprenticing are just a few examples of formal training resources. Although the Internet is an abundance of information, there is no comparison to witnessing your learning firsthand. Whether it is at a club, party or private event, seeing and feeling the experience offers an invaluable perspective unattainable in a chat room or over the phone. Being present you are able to watch what is happening, look into a person's eyes, feel their presence and make judgments based on your instincts. It becomes a real experience when you are able to use all of your senses in observing the delicate ambiance of a scene; sight, sound, smell, taste, touch, and feeling. Whether you are being trained the necessary skills to become a talented top, learning how best to serve your top's needs or even a little of both, take the time to develop your own philosophy, goals and motivation.

Once one has become proficient in his or her own training and experiences, the decision to take someone on in a training relationship must be carefully considered. The dynamics of the relationship and the responsibilities of both partners are extremely important to explore and make clear to all parties involved. BDSM players are not the only ones who should be considering these issues, as it is just as important in any vanilla or slightly kinky relationship to establish boundaries and comfort limits to avoid mixing intentions and hurting feelings. The type of training and disciplines we choose to take part in will determine the amount of time and energy that must be put forth. Once the rules have been set and the training requirements begun, it is the responsibility of the top to stay ahead of the game. Submissive and slaves cannot train themselves.

Simplicity is the key to success for beginning training. The rules must be clear and instructions concise. When the rules are broken, punishment should fit the indiscretion and be consistently upheld. There is no room for a lazy top in training, you have to pay attention and match your actions with your words. Each form of training is its own art. Grooming someone into your ideal playmate requires hard work and dedication. You may wish to have or be a small child, a kitten or puppy, a soldier, a servant, a sissy maid or slave just to name a few.

Each from of training has its own special elements. The idea is to combine education, enjoyment and entertainment with your specific role playing interests. Take for example puppy training: the basic concept is to teach manners and socialization for the very young dog, they then progress to basic commands using key words, positive motivation, and hand signals. Advanced training would involve special tricks and techniques reserved for dogs that are already well trained. And don't be fooled, an old dog can certainly learn new tricks but rarely can you un-learn his old training and behavior patterns.

In essence, training is for everyone and should be an important step in becoming a responsible BDSM player. Taking on submissive training requires commitment, imagination and an investment into the whole person. If we, as individuals and a community adopt higher standards we are sure to find that a more informed generation will follow. So go out into the world and search for your inspiration, feed your imagination, and experience your dreams. The sensual evolution of training ultimately belongs to each of us and depends on what we decide to do with it. How will you affect the future of training?