The History of Flogging

For context purposes, flogging for sexual pleasure is, of course, not the only form of flogging. And back in the days the Whipping Act was allowed for the punishment  of thieves, blasphemers, poachers, and those who committed a crime or an offense, as well as those who were deemed ‘insane’. 

Interestingly, later on a german physician took a different stance on flogging, and claimed that flogging a man’s back warms the semen, leading to sexual arousal. 

But let’s not ruin the mood with the disturbing practices of the past, and move swiftly along to the form of flogging that is enjoyed by many. 

 What is Flogging 

Flogging is a form of impact play within the realm of BDSM (bondage, discipline, dominance, submission, sadism, and masochism). It involves striking a person’s body with a flogger—a specialized whip-like instrument typically consisting of a handle and multiple tails or strands. The flogger’s tails can be made from various materials, such as leather, suede, rubber, or synthetic fibers. Each material has different properties and can produce distinct sensations upon impact. The tails can be thin or thick, smooth or textured, providing a range of experiences from gentle stimulation to more intense sensations.

The strikes can be delivered to different parts of the body, depending on the preferences and agreed-upon boundaries of the participants. Flogging can encompass a wide spectrum of intensity, from gentle caresses to more forceful impacts. It can be combined with other BDSM activities, such as bondage or role-playing, or enjoyed as a standalone practice. As with any BDSM activity, consent, communication, and negotiation are crucial to ensure that all participants are comfortable, safe, and engaged in a consensual manner.

Floggers

Floggers are versatile in the range of use and impact there are various strengths ranging from light, medium, and heavy strokes. For purposes of safety, especially for the novices, the best and basic area to flog is the upper back away from the spine (it’s important to avoid the spine to prevent any vertebrae/tissue injury). Other areas to flog, but do so with caution for issues of sensitivity and potential for injury, include the butt, thighs, and breasts. Please note, there is quite a bit of controversy out there as to whether or not flogging should be used on areas of the body other than the back. Some individuals in the BDSM community suggest other areas are safe to flog as long as you flog lightly, however, others strongly advise to use floggers for the back only. For this is tip it is recommended to focus flogging only on the back while you are still new to the activity.

The basics of flogging is to strike a specific area of the back repeatedly and accurately, to allow a build up endorphins, then move to another spot to strike a few times, and so on. For the “newbies,” start with a lighter, more gentle flogger before working your way up to bigger floggers once you gain more experience and practice.

Why some people enjoy flogging?

Flogging can be enjoyed by individuals for a variety of reasons. It’s important to note that the practice of BDSM requires explicit consent, communication, and respect between all parties involved.

• Sensation and Endorphin Release: Flogging can create a range of sensations, from gentle to intense, depending on the preferences of the participants. The impact of the flogger on the skin can produce a mix of pleasure, pain, and a rush of adrenaline. The body’s response to pain can trigger the release of endorphins and adrenaline, which can result in a pleasurable and euphoric experience.
• Power Exchange and Dominance/Submission Dynamics: Flogging can be part of a power exchange dynamic, where one person takes on a dominant role while the other takes a submissive role. For individuals who enjoy power dynamics, flogging can serve as a physical manifestation of control and surrender. It allows them to explore their desires for dominance or submission and create a sense of trust and intimacy with their partner.
• Emotional Catharsis and Mindfulness: Flogging can provide an avenue for emotional release and catharsis. Some individuals find that the intensity and focus required during a flogging session can help them disconnect from everyday stresses and enter a state of mindfulness or flow. It can offer a space for emotional expression, stress relief, and a break from the responsibilities of daily life.
• Sensual and Erotic Stimulation: Flogging can be an erotic and sensual experience for many people. The combination of the physical impact, the sound of the flogger, and the anticipation of each strike can heighten arousal and contribute to a heightened sense of pleasure. Flogging can be incorporated into a broader sexual context or enjoyed as a standalone activity.
• Exploration of Boundaries and Limits: Engaging in flogging can allow individuals to explore their personal boundaries and limits. It offers an opportunity to push one’s comfort zone in a controlled and consensual manner, leading to personal growth, increased self-awareness, and expanded horizons of pleasure and pain tolerance.

Aftercare

Aftercare is an important part of any BDSM scene. Taking the time to take care of your partner, addressing any physical pains or marks they received during the process. Good aftercare includes a soft and caring rubdown/massaging of the arms, legs, butt, etc. Even applying lotion or necessary ointment to any marks and scars to help the healing process begin shows responsible play and appreciation to your submissive partner.

Responsible, accurate, and safe flogging requires practice, research, talking with your partners, and others who are more experienced and comfortable with flogging. Flogging is meant to be erotic and arousing, but is also very dangerous. Enjoy this activity with much caution, consideration of your safety and your partner’s, preparation and education.

Open communication, trust, and understanding between all participants are crucial to ensure that flogging is approached in a consensual and emotionally safe manner.