Breath Play 101
This text below is courtsey of Reddit because I couldn't really make a better document about this. So if you're interested in breath play, PLEASE read the following below.
There is no safe way to do breath play, period. You risk death and serious injury, every, single, time. Below is an in depth discussion of different methods to engage in breath play. It goes over in depth anatomy and risks of each type of breath play. A "blood choke" when you apply pressure to the blood vessels and not the windpipe is just as dangerous, if not more so than applying pressure to the wind pipe due to how anatomy and physiology work in this area of the body.
The complete Manual of
Breathplay
BY DUNTER
EDITION S.LECLERC
Page 1
The goal of this manual is to provide information, not to encourage or discourage people
from engaging in breathplay. I do not take any responsibility for any practice inspired by
this manual. This is not a training guide, reference manual, or compendium. The
practices mentioned below can lead to serious injuries or even death. I hope this book
will inform you about some of the most dangerous BDSM practices, and help you and
your community recognize the risks associated with these activities.
Word from the author: Who I am and why I wrote this book
Firstly, I am not a doctor, black belt martial practitioner or a professional in breathplay.
Therefore, readers should not take the knowledge presented in this book as absolute
truth, and must conduct their own research. However, I have witnessed the tragic loss of
many friends who engaged in breathplay activities, and my goal in writing this book is to
save lives by sharing my knowledge and experiences.
Prior to conducting breathplay classes, I conducted extensive research on the topic and
provided awareness on the dangers this practice can pose. Additionally, I have been
involved in the BDSM community for many years, and have attended conventions
across Canada and the United States, learning from a wide variety of people and
classes related to this domain.
As an ex-military personnel and martial arts enthusiast, I have knowledge in areas that
are not commonly discussed or shared, and I believe this information can be valuable to
others.
I truly believe that sharing my knowledge is better than simply saying, 'Don't do it.' It's
important to understand how and why something is dangerous so that we can explain
how to mitigate risks as effectively as possible.
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Introduction
What is Breathplay?
Breathplay encompasses various activities within the realm of BDSM. For the purposes
of this manual, breathplay refers to controlling the flow of air or blood. These activities
range from choking to strangulation and are generally considered dangerous. When
engaging in breathplay, you are playing with a vital aspect of your body's function, and
some of these activities have resulted in fatalities in the past.
What are people seeking by engaging in breathplay, also known as erotic asphyxiation,
and why do they do it? This activity has been present in the kink community for a long
time, but it is not exclusive to fetish environments as both young and older individuals
participate in it for various reasons. There are different motives that drive people to
engage in erotic asphyxiation, ranging from experimenting with fear to psychological
needs, while others are interested in physical sensations such as having a hand on their
throat. Some individuals seek to experience passing out, while others are drawn to the
effects produced by hypoxia. For some, the experience of waking up confused after the
pass-out effect is what they desire. Thus, people use it to satisfy different needs, from
physical sensations to mind games.
What is the danger and what is the safe way to participate in breathplay? Firstly, it is
important to understand that breathplay carries inherent dangers and cannot be
considered safe under any circumstances. Even those who are experienced in such
activities cannot completely eliminate the risk of accidents occurring. The body may
react differently to the practice and may be damaged as a result. Accidents can occur
from both direct and indirect application of these techniques, and cumulative use can
lead to long-term harm.
Those participating in breathplay may seek the feeling of hypoxia, caused by a
decrease in the concentration of oxygen in the air. The air we breathe contains
approximately 20% oxygen, and when the oxygen concentration falls below 10-15%,
individuals may experience a state similar to drunkenness. This affects judgment and
coordination, making it dangerous to continue the activity. Those who attempt to push
through this state are at an increased risk of accidents and may be unable to recognize
their limitations.
Many cases of individuals dying in relation to breathplay occurred when they were
alone. With impaired judgment and coordination, such scenarios become accidents
waiting to happen. It is vital that those engaging in breathplay do so with the assistance
of a trusted partner who can monitor their physical and mental state, and intervene if
necessary.
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FIRST RULE: NEVER DO THESE THINGS ALONE. At oxygen levels lower than 10%,
we may experience a loss of consciousness, and levels lower than 8% can result in
death. Please keep this in mind, especially if you are using bagging or rebreather
techniques. Different methods, such as a change in blood pressure, can trigger the
"passing out" effect. The lack of oxygen can also cause the body to react by shutting
down non-vital activities to try to protect itself. Some people may enjoy the comeback
effect, such as confusion. The sensation of passing out under control is intense and
may include tunnel vision, loss of all senses, and loss of muscular control.
The definition of edge-play involves playing with someone's life, which is not legal in
Canada. It is prohibited to give permission to be injured or hurt. Therefore, if such
activities result in a person's death, it would be considered manslaughter even if the
individual provided consent. When deciding to engage in such activities, please
consider the impact on loved ones or dependents. Additionally, most fetish events, like
dungeons, do not permit edge-play due to the potential danger involved. Please check
the local rules and regulations of the venue to confirm whether edge-play and
breathplay are allowed.
Before attempting breathplay
Before attempting breathplay, questioning is an important part of negotiation. Common
sense medical inquiries should be made, such as asking about any issues with blood
pressure, breathing, or heart conditions. It's also important to ask about the sought type
of activity, the desired effect, any limits the person may have, and how to communicate
the safe word or signal to stop. If the person has consumed alcohol or caffeine, this
could impact their body and change their blood pressure. Additionally, it's important to
ask about any previous experience with these activities and the person's age, as
engaging in edge or breathplay at ages 20-30 is not the same as doing so at 50-80. If
there are any factors that increase the risks associated with these activities, it's best to
try something else.
Before engaging in any risky activities such as breathplay, it is advisable to take a First
Aid and CPR class in case of emergencies. It is better to be prepared for the worst than
to be caught off guard if something goes wrong. These activities require your undivided
attention, so stay focused at all times and avoid taking breaks. Leaving someone
unattended during these activities is considered irresponsible, and if they cannot help
themselves, you will be held accountable for any harm that may come to them. It is
crucial to monitor their level of consciousness by observing their "thinkable reactions",
such as giving an answer to a question or holding a limb in a particular position, their
eye movements, breathing, and grip on objects - especially when lighting conditions are
unclear.
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Anatomy
The larynx is our airway and is made of cartilage, which can be
damaged by pressure. If a foreign object is placed in the mouth, it can
trigger the gag reflex, resulting in light coughing or even vomiting. The
Adam's apple should also be avoided when applying pressure, as it
can cause discomfort. The carotid arteries, located on both sides of the
airway, provide blood flow to the brain and have a sinus with a
baroreceptor that controls heart pressure. Consistent pressure on the
carotid sinus can cause the heart to slow down or even stop. Backup
arteries in the spine provide 30% of blood flow to the brain, making it
crucial to understand how the lungs work and how pressure on the abdomen can make
breathing difficult. Body modifications such as implants, surface piercings, and dermal
piercings can cause issues with this type of play. Two nervous systems, sympathetic
and parasympathetic, play a crucial role in the body's functioning.
When conscious, you have control over certain bodily functions, such as breathing.
However, when you lose consciousness, your nervous system relies on mechanical
information to keep working. For example, if you're underwater and holding your breath,
but you pass out, your nervous system will try to make you breathe in water. It's
important to note that every person's body is unique, with individual differences
accounting for up to 15% of variance, from the shape of their ear to the complete
inversion of their internal organs. Just because you know where something is located on
one person doesn't mean it's in the exact same place on another.
Before engaging in any activity, make sure you have the proper tools and equipment,
like safety shears, in case an issue arises. It's also a good idea to have a charged cell
phone nearby to quickly call for medical assistance if needed. Additionally, always have
a first aid kit and use common sense.
It's crucial to recognize the effects that come with breathplay and use them as indicators
to stop or take a break. For instance, if someone experiences headaches, it may be a
sign to stop the activity. Petechia, which is characterized by blood traces in the white of
the eyes or on the skin due to ruptured blood vessels, is a well-known effect of
breathplay.
If someone experiences an atypical effect, such as memory loss, during the activity,
stop immediately and consult a healthcare professional.
Breathplay involves controlling someone's breathing. One way of doing this is by
manipulating the cycle of respiration. Many marksmen have learnt how to control their
breathing patterns to improve their accuracy. People can hold their breath for some time
before releasing the air. If you prevent them from taking another breath, panic and fear
will swiftly take over. It is important to note that the cycles of respiration speed up when
the cardio kicks in from stress and fear. Understanding this is crucial in breathplay. You
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You need to be aware that your partner needs to breathe, but you should also know when to
stop them from doing so. Avoid blocking their exhales too forcefully. This is known as
the Valsalva manoeuvre. Instead, focus on playing mind games to control their
breathing, rather than intentionally causing hypoxia or hyperventilation.
Technical
-Valasalva maneuver: This technique is known to people who dive or use airplanes. The
goal is to balance the pressure in the ears by blowing through an obstructed nose when
the mouth is closed. This technique, when pushed to the extreme, can have negative
effects, so never block the exhalation of air of someone.
-Gag reflex: The gag reflex is activated when a foreign object that represents a risk to
breathing safety is detected by the body. The reflex can range from coughing to
vomiting until the obstruction is cleared. This is important to understand when playing
with objects in the mouth, such as ball gags or other toys of that type. Some ball gags
have holes in the ball that allow saliva to flow out, but some do not.
-Thumb versus tongue: A swinger who likes breathplay during sex
taught this technique to me. It should not leave any marks. Place
both hands as if strangling someone, with fingers on each side of
the neck. Then, raise your thumbs to place them where the tongue
is, under the chin and one inch below it. Push up in that direction
toward the throat to make breathing more difficult but not
impossible. Do not put pressure on the neck or trachea.
-Face sitting: This can be a dangerous thing to do since you cannot see the face of the
person. Always use other ways to verify your partner’s consciousness. The obstruction
can be done from the front (vagina smothering) or even with the buttocks of a person. It
can be done clothed or naked, and some materials like latex can add a layer of fun to
this kind of play. Also, consider the weight of the person doing the sitting.
-Nose blowing: I always see this as a punishment. Blowing in someone's nose, like
canine mouth-to-mouth, can give some people unpleasant sensations. Be careful not to
over-pressurize your blow.
-Bathing cap: Latex can be used to create a sensory deprivation experience,
however, it's important to ensure the person can breathe comfortably
throughout the play. It is recommended to allow them to take deep breaths
before applying the cap, and to only use it for a short duration.
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-Smothering: Smothering can be a light form of play, however, it's important to be
mindful of the need for air during intimate moments. Blocking the nose can increase the
effects of oxygen deprivation, but it's crucial to not block the exhale. Some individuals
may enjoy using gloves during this type of play.
-Positional asphyxia: This is a highly dangerous form of play that has been used to
torture and kill people in the past. It is vital to avoid any form of play that could result in
the restriction of breathing or harm to the individual. Examples of ties that can
potentially lead to this effect include the ebi-tie, full body suspension by the wrist,
crucifixion, and hogtie. It's of utmost importance to prioritize safety during BDSM play
and to only engage in activities with proper knowledge and consent.
-Compression: Breathplay through compression can be executed in numerous ways.
For instance, sitting or placing a knee on someone's belly can restrict their breathing,
while compression ties that compress the thoracic cage can have the same effect but
take more time to execute and undo. Additionally, some people may feel that corsets
are effective when it comes to compression. However, it's critical to remember when to
undo these methods. It's worth noting that in certain choking games, kids often force
hyperventilation before having their chest pressed against a wall. When they release,
the change of pressure can cause them to pass out, which can be extremely perilous
due to the fall that follows.
-Belly compression with legs or scissors-legs: Compression on the belly can make it
harder to breathe. In some antiquated cultures, putting rocks on the belly was a type of
torture that led to death. This practice can be just as risky as the others, but it's
relatively quick to undo. It's important to be careful not to apply too much pressure on
the ribs or bladder and to aim for the mid-belly.
-Gas Mask: As a former military individual, I am aware that gas masks can be used in
breathplay. They make breathing more difficult due to their filter. A hose can be added to
aid with the play. Blocking the intake is simple, and you can observe the mask
approaching the face as a result of the vacuum. Some individuals use the hose to
experiment with various scents or for sensation play. The masks offer limited visibility on
the person's face who is wearing it, hence, it's important to monitor their consciousness
carefully.
-Re-breather: These are bags that go along with some gas masks. They recycle the air,
which becomes increasingly low in oxygen concentration, creating the buzz of hypoxia.
While these games can be thrilling, they are also highly dangerous. Some re-breathers
come as part of latex equipment, which means that the visibility of the user's face may
not always be optimal.
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-Tape: Playing with tape can be popular for smothering play, pictures, and videos;
however, it's important to be cautious of potential indirect effects. Sometimes, people
can have allergic reactions to the glue on the tape, and removing it can be difficult. For
a safer option, 3M Microfoam tape is recommended, as it is soft and easy to remove
with less toxic glue than duct tape. Non-adhesive tapes that stick to themselves can
also be used, but keep safety shears nearby just in case.
-Saran wrap (plastic wrap): Saran wrap can be used for breath play, but it's
recommended to wrap it around the nose up so that the person can still breathe through
their mouth. To create a blindfold, tape can be used over the Saran wrap. If you want to
have control over the person's breathing, cut a small square that can be removed as
needed. When removing the wrap, cutting it on the side of the head is best, being
careful with hair.
-Bagging with a hard bag: Using a plastic bag over the head can be overwhelming, so
hard bags are recommended. These can be secured to the head using tape, or nonsticky tape. As with rebreathing, the circulation of air can lower oxygen concentration in
the bag. Hard bags can have a hole cut at the top to let air in or suck air out. This hole
can also be used for cigar smoke or to fill the bag with water, which is very scary. Be
cautious of condensation inside the bag that can decrease visibility.
-Bagging with a soft bag: Hotel mini garbage bags are a strong option for this type of
play. Inflate the bag slightly before placing it over the head and closing it at the neck.
This creates a scarier sensation as the bag gets closer to the face. Rebreathing is
dangerous, so use caution when playing with this technique.
-Gags: Gags are a common item in many sex shops. Some are very basic, such as ball
gags, while others are shaped like a small penis. Most do not have holes for drooling,
but some have large holes that allow for breathing. The important thing to watch out for
is the gag reflex, and you should always be prepared to monitor any issues that may
arise with these implements.
-Kiss of death: The Kiss of Death is a romantic way to engage in breath play. When
sealing lips with your partner, you can control the flow of air by blocking their nose with
your hand. You can breathe through your own nose and give your partner some of your
air, or you can steal some of their breath for a short moment of sensation play. It's
important to ensure that your partner does not panic in this position.
-Hyperventilation: Hyperventilation can lead to passing out and is a dangerous activity.
Some school choking games involve hyperventilation, then you get into a ball position
and then rapidly rise to your feet. This can be dangerous due to the risk of falling.
-Nose plugs: Similar to those used for swimming, nose plugs are used to simply block
the nose. They become a part of breath play when coupled with kissing or fellatio.
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-Latex band: Latex bands come in different sizes and are used by the Top to block
breathing for a moment. The band takes the shape of the face and seals the area it is
applied to.
Breathplay: Blood
Breathplay: Blood Strangulation, in this sense, is about altering the amount of pressure
the brain receives from blood flow. The change in pressure can cause most people to
lose consciousness. When a person passes out, you release the pressure. The person
should regain consciousness once the pressure is released. It's important to note that
playing with either blood or air can be equally dangerous. Most of these techniques are
referred to as bilateral carotid compression.
Techniques:
-Pinch of Death: Apply pressure with a finger and thumb on each of the carotid arteries.
Use your other hand to turn and lift the head by holding the hair to block pressure from
the backup arteries. Remember that a person who passes out has no muscle control, so
it's your responsibility to prevent injuries and protect them at all costs.
-Rope Neck: This topic is highly controversial. Rope neck techniques range from a
simple rope passing in front of the neck like some Hojo-jutsu ties to a leash with a noncollapsing loop or a single column. It can be used for decorative or sensation purposes.
Watch out for rope marks around the neck as they can be seen by others and lead to
misunderstandings. Applying pressure on the carotid arteries can induce sensations or
cause someone to pass out. Be mindful of the trachea and avoid attaching the noose to
a solid object around the neck.
-Fake choke: Some people enjoy a hand on their throat as a way to enhance their
passion, but it's important to be gentle and apply light pressure. To do this, place the
palm of your hand over the hollow in the middle of the collarbones with fingers on each
side.
-Rope and scarf choke: This technique is a good way to apply even pressure around the
neck without focusing too much pressure on the baroreceptor. To do this, place the
middle of the scarf on the front of the neck and wrap both sides around the back of the
neck. During intercourse, the receiver can hold the scarf themselves and apply pressure
while the partner monitors for safety.
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-Belt: Belts can be used for strangulation, but it's crucial to be careful with the locking
mechanism as it can pinch the skin or cause harm. It's important to position the top of
the belt bite in the direction of pulling to allow for some space. Neck play should focus
on holding rather than squeezing the neck. While this can be a thrilling experience for
some, it can also be dangerous, so caution is advised.
-Rear naked choke: This technique, borrowed from martial arts, applies bilateral
pressure on the carotids using the bicep and forearm, and is very effective in making
most people pass out in less than 15 seconds. Some call it the 'sleep-holder'. Make
sure to take a class on these techniques with a professional. Just because there have
been no accidents recorded in the records of judo and jiu-jitsu for this practice does not
mean it is 100% safe. Ensure that you hold the person well because a person who
passes out has no muscular control. If the technique is still not working after 10
seconds, let go. You may be holding it the wrong way, or the anatomy of the person may
be different, with their carotids placed further back or if their backup arteries are bigger. I
have met three people out of a thousand who cannot pass out, so there is no need to try
harder than usual.
-Leg triangle choke: This technique can be very dangerous because it uses the most
powerful group of muscles. Even well-trained practitioners can over-contract these
muscles. It can also be seen as an erotic activity due to the close proximity of the head
to the other person’s genitals. Seek advice and training from a professional to learn this
technique safely.
-Recreational hanging: This activity resembles lethal punishment and is not
recommended in any way. The neck is not designed to handle this kind of stress, and it
can result in compression on vital organs. This type of activity was common in many
countries in the past, but it should be avoided for safety reasons.
-Water boarding, drowning, and wet towel: These techniques were used as forms of
torture in the past and can be dangerous. It is recommended to take a class and use
caution when practicing these advanced techniques. Breathing through a wet towel is
difficult, and when it comes to waterboarding, using very cold water can be more
effective in achieving the desired effect of a make-believe drowning sensation without
causing harm to the person. The goal of these techniques is to play with the mind, not to
cause harm.
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Last part
In the "Don't" section:
-Arm bar: The arm bar was a technique used by police forces for a long time, but due to
many deaths, they decided to use the "naked choke" technique instead. The arm bar
compresses the trachea using the forearms, which can lead to damage to the air pipes,
and it doesn't help to calm anyone down.
-Overpressure: Applying too much pressure with any technique will lead to injuries, and
you don't want that.
-Solid hanging: Never attach a noose or loop to anything over your head that can lead
to hanging. Never attach your neck to something that can move or fall.
-Other: Never engage in any of these practices alone; never mix these activities with
drugs, alcohol, fatigue, or exacerbated negative emotional states. Remember that even
if it's safer when you know what you are doing, it does not necessarily make these
practices safe.
Death
Death cases: Every year, many people die from practices like edge and breathplay, but
not enough education is provided to help people mitigate the risks. Therefore, I strive to
take a step forward and raise awareness.
-Autoerotic asphyxiation: David Carradine, the lead actor in 'Kill Bill', was found dead
from what appeared to be autoerotic asphyxiation. This kind of death is sadly common,
and often happens when people practice alone and make bad decisions.
-Obstruction incident in St-Julie: A paramedic who was engaging in heavy bondage and
using a ball gag with his wife failed to notice that she vomited and was choked to death
by her own vomit. This case was ruled an accident, as no breathplay was intended.
-Alone in St-Bruno: A fireman engaging in an intense session with his partner left her in
a predicament alone. She couldn't move due to a metallic solid collar that was loose
around her neck. The woman suffered from positional asphyxia, passed out, and
choking herself to death with the collar.
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-Vacbed in Toronto: A friend of mine was using a vacbed with a small opening for his
head. The latex collar was pressing on his baroreceptors, reducing his blood pressure,
making him fall unconscious. Even after he was unconscious, the pressure continued to
send a message to his heart to slow down until it stopped. This is a warning never to
practice alone or apply continuous pressure there.
-Predicament in Italy: In the rope community, this incident is well-known. A rigger tied
two intoxicated girls by the neck to each other. They had to stay on their toes to avoid
choking, but one of them collapsed, choking the other to death. Both girls lost
consciousness, still choking each other. The rigger was also intoxicated and had left his
safety shears in his car, delaying the rescue attempt.
-Bag of death: Some countries use an 'exit bag' in conjunction with neutral gases like
helium for legal suicide. This puts the person unconscious quietly, and the re-breathing
inside the bag does the rest. However, it's important to seek help rather than resort to
this solution as it is irreversible.
Appendix Glossary:
• Erotic asphyxiation: The intentional restriction of oxygen to the brain for the
purpose of sexual arousal.
• Auto-erotic asphyxiation: Self-induced effect of erotic asphyxiation.
• Passing out, syncope, also known as fainting: Defined as a short loss of
consciousness.
• BDSM: Bondage, discipline, dominance and submission, sadomasochism.
• Safe word: A code word used to communicate an official instruction to stop the
play.
• Edge-play: Activity that endangers the life or health of the person receiving the
play.
• Ball gag: A fetish sex toy that consists of a mouth-insertable object with textile or
rope to hold it in place.
• Vacbed or vacuum bed: An envelope spanned by a frame, and a suction pump or
a floor vacuum removes most of the air from the envelope. It is a restriction
device.
• Top: The person who administers the play.
• Bottom: The person who receives the play.
• Hypoxia: A condition where the body or a region of the body is deprived of an
adequate amount of oxygen.
• Adam's apple: The structure of the Adam's apple forms a bump under the skin. It
is typically larger in adult males.
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This book was inspired by: TSURUMI, Wataro. The Complete Manual of Suicide, Japan,1993.
ISBN 978-4-87233-153-0
References:
KOIWAI, E Karl. Deaths allegedly caused by the use of «choke hold» (Shime-Waza), Judo Info,
Online publishing date unknown (original paper publishing 1987), (Online), http://judoinfo.com/
chokes6/
KNIGHT, Bernard and Pekka Saukko. Knight's Forensic Pathology Third Edition, CRC Press,
United States, 2015. ISBN-10: 0340760443
LYLE, Douglas P. Forensics For Dummies, For Dummies, United States, 2016. ISBN-10:
0764555804 ,ISBN-13: 978-0764555800
Images from: Gray Anatomy, 1918.
This book is dedicated to all the people who touched my heart and left too soon.
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It is the result of the collaborative work of many friends.
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