The word Shibari in Japanese literally means "to tie." Shibari is a western word and in Japan the art is called Kinbaku. It can be a simple one rope tie to a complex multiple rope suspension. This is a form of power exchange where one person consensually allows the other to tie them. It is done by consent between at least two willing partners, one tying called the top or rigger and one being tied, referred to as the bottom, rope bottom. The bottom really has all the power and can stop a tie at any time. While it is considered bondage and in the BDSM realm, many couples find it a wonderful way to connect and be artistic together. As with many life activities, there is risk involved, but education, practice and communication help to minimize those risks. Ito Seiu has been tagged the godfathe