Pillow Talk: Consent-driven Intimacy by HotSqueak

This workshop shares fundamental information on effective communication to those looking to improve their communication skills or change their communication style, or those engaging in kink or BDSM. We’ll set the foundation for those tough or embarrassing conversations that are critical to achieving intimacy. 

Principles 

• Consent-focused discussions
• Pragmatic approach that is fluid and not prescriptive 
• Transparency, safety, risk awareness and accountability 
• Broadly applicable to almost every scenario 
• Encouraging honest, vulnerable conversation
• Group discussion engagement encouraged

Part 1: 

• Intention 
• Establishing the “why”, intention and goal 

Part 2: 

• Informed consent 
• Inclusive decision-making, sharing necessary information 

Quick breather and snack  

Part 3: Boundaries (main) 

• Limits, wants, needs, touch, approach and contact before and after 

Part 4:  

• Risk assessment
• Skill level, risk of injury, emotional/mental risk, medical information, risk appetite 

Part 5:  

• Listening and sharing 
• After-play/sex needs, debrief, what went well, what could be better 

Part 6:  

• Q&A and takeaways 
• Summary of main points and some basic pointers. Questions are welcome after each part and discussion is encouraged. 

Other important info 

• Please wear comfy clothes, and bring snacks and non-alcoholic drinks to share for the snack table. Each person will receive an info pack to take home, but please feel free to take notes. 
• There is no practical component of this workshop but everyone is encouraged to use what they have learned. 

HotSqueak

HotSqueak has 11+ years of experience in various kinks with a special interest in impact play, but their interests are broad-ranging. They will facilitate conversations and answer any questions you have, as well as share their (mis)adventures.

Embodiment Rope Space is a welcoming and safe(r) space for members of the LGBTQIA+ community and allies. We practice rope and shibari communally and host occasional workshops for upskilling the community. Rope/Shibari is never safe, there are only ways to do it more safely.

We have limited treated rope from Sudo Jute for sale and safety shears. Non-alcoholic drinks (Soft drinks, water, tea, coffee) will also be for sale. 

Embodiment Rope Space is the love child of a group of volunteers from different walks of life coming together to actualize something we think the world needs: a queer safe(r) space for exploring kink as a healing, connective force. 

You can follow us on Instagram here: 
@embodiment_ct 
@desirelinesbondage (she/they)
@faeriebunnyrope (she/her)
@rope.fu (he/him)
@wavybeanbaby (she/her)
@gr_en.trapa (they/them)
@charliefrench_za (she/her)
@creaturale (they/them)
@_bykye (she/they) 
@sudo_kinbaku_ / @sudojute (he/they) 
@fire_lily_kinbaku (she/her)
@bugartstuff (they/them)
@newyork.creations (they/them) 

1. Don’t be late.
2. Respect the space. Leave no trace - whatever you bring, take it back with you. 
3. Ego has no place here. Learn and share with humility. 
4. Ask for people’s pronouns and use the ones you are given. 
5. No shoes. Keep underwear on at public events. Nipples may be free. 
6. Do not make unsolicited comments about anyone else's body.
7. Do not take any photos of anyone in attendance without consent. 
8. Do not post photos without the consent of EVERYONE in the photo. 
9. Do not reveal the identity of anyone you meet in the space once you leave. Many people prefer anonymity. 
10. Be mindful of making noise in the space when others are tying around you, this includes loud talking and laughing. 
11. Be discrete when moving through other parts of the premises. Clothes are optional in the space but not outside the door.
12. Please stay home if you are feeling unwell.
13. This is a sober space. Please do not use any recreational drugs or alcohol before coming or while on site. 

This is a non-rope related workshop, use of our rope gear and equipment is prohibited during this workshop

I want to stay anonymous! How can I do this?
When purchasing your ticket you will notice an additional question that we capture. This is a required field, however, if you do not want to populate the question then just fill in N/A. You can add as many questions as you like but you are not limited to this mechanism! On the day you can also engage with your facilitators and bring your questions along. If you've purchased your ticket and have more questions to add, just send us an email at embodimentropespace@gmail.com with the subject line Embodied Talks: Sex-Ed Questions.

What should I wear?
This is a friendly learning environment, not a sexual one, so crotches are to remain covered. Other than that, you are free to wear whatever you like. We find that it is easier to tie with minimal clothing or clothing that you can move in easily (leggings, shorts, etc.). Comfy, sexy, sporty, fetish - as long as your booty is covered, you are welcome here. 

What should I bring along?
We encourage all participants to bring a curious attitude and a willingness to engage or listen. This is a judgment-free zone, and as much as we would like to remind you to park your judgment for those around you; it is equally important that you reserve that same sentiment towards yourself. Not everyone has had the same level of access to knowledge or had safe spaces in which they could honestly ask questions they feel like they should already know the answers to. Bring your questions, any snacks if you need them, and cash if you would like to purchase any non-alcoholic drinks we have on-site or any of our regular Embodiment items from our kiosk.

Do I need a partner?
You do NOT need a partner to attend this event! This workshop is open solo folks, couples, throuples, friends, etc. This will be an educational space only.

Note on accessibility:
We believe rope is for every body. At the same time the building we are currently occupying does not allow for wheelchair access or has accessibility to ground floor ablution facilities. This is an ongoing negotiation with the current landlords.