The realm of BDSM is complex, kinky and adventurous. As a spectrum, BDSM offers a diverse array of sexual exploration such as sensation play. It is an opportunity to discover kinks and navigate arousal and stimulation in a safe and consensual manner without judgement.

The Loveangels Guide to Sensation Play for Beginners 

For most of us, the first thing that pops to mind when we hear BDSM is a sex dungeon with complex bondage contraptions, whips, and chains. All things pain for the sake of pleasure.

Although many of us may enjoy these things – no one is here to kink shame – BDSM offers far more than just bondage, dominant and submissive power play, and activating pain for pleasure.

Within this multidimensional spectrum of Bondage, Discipline, Dominance, Submission, Sadism and Masochism, lies a thrilling game of sensation play otherwise known as sensory play. 

Involving the senses, sensory play is a kink that everyone can explore within the boundaries of their sexual comfort zones.
Or if you want to try something new or explore what truly turns you on, sensation play is a versatile space to do so.

What is sensation play?

Whether you are a BDSM master (pun painfully intended) or are slowly dipping your toes into the wonderful world of sexual exploration, you’re probably already involved in sensation play in the bedroom (or dungeon - lucky).

As the name suggests, sensation play is all about engaging the senses during erotic moments.

It involves sensual activities that deliberately heighten and manipulate the receiver’s sensory stimuli. (Hence the word sensual.)

Taste, touch, smell, sight and sound.

By focusing on one or all of the senses, this seductive playground is a unique and intense experience for all involved.

Exploring sensation play in the bedroom

Sensation play is exactly that – playful. There are no rules as to what sensory stimuli you can utilise to heighten pleasure.

But here are a few ways in which you can incorporate sensory play into your sexual experiences. From yummy scents and delicious tastes to textures, room settings, clothes and playlists, there is something for everyone.

Setting the mood

Cue the erotic playlist and dimmed lights.

Sensation play can begin before any sexual activities. You can utilise the room setting as a playground for stimulating the senses.

The fabric of the bedding or clothes, or the light sources and the type of music playing can enhance the experience for all partners.

Let’s get touchy

The way you touch the receiver with your own body or toys is a part of sensation play.

Touching and tickling – There are two ways to touch or tickle your partner. Knismesis is the soft-feather-like touch. Use a feather or your hand to gently caress different parts of the body. And gargalesis is tickling with a heavier hand in an almost vibrating motion.

Temperature play – Activating the neuroreceptors responsible for distinguishing between hot and cold. Use topical products for hot and cold sensations. Or involve ice or a candle wax. Expert tip: Use a soy-based candle and blow it out before dripping wax. Place glass sex toys, such as a glass dildo or anal beads, in the freezer or hot (not boiling) water for a few minutes.

Impact play – Wanna get spanked? This play involves paddles, floggers or the hand to hit or spank. Start with a soft spank and build your way up to what the receiver enjoys and is comfortable with.

Yummy, yummy flavours and smells

It’s time to tease those tastebuds and get those aromas swirling.

Think fruity lubes, fragrant oils and scented candles.

If you haven’t explored sensory play with scents and tasty treats, flavoured lube for oral sex is a great place to start.

Or you could involve some actual food if you’re into that.

Chocolate-covered strawberries, anyone?

Despite its cliche appearance in Romcoms, both chocolate and strawberries are aphrodisiacs – they not only arouse our senses, but they also boost libido.

For a nice smelling experience, light a scented candle or burn some oils that you or your partner/s love. Like food, scents can also put you in the mood if you know what I mean. Jasmine, vanilla, lavender, sandalwood and rose are some of these.

Sensory deprivation

Sensory deprivation play is the intentional absence of specific sensory stimuli. Like enhancing some senses, depriving others heightens the remaining senses.

You can use a blindfold to remove sight or bondage gear to limit physical movement and touching.

Communication is key

Today’s mantra: consent is sexy. Communicating about your sexual needs, preferences and comfort zone is essential for safe and happy sexual experiences.

First and foremost, having an honest and open conversation about exploring the playground of sensation play allows you and your partner/s to explore without shame, judgement and any pressures.

Remember: safe words are safe!

Ready for some sensory play? 

With an emphasis on play, using sensations to enhance your sexual experiences is completely up to you. Try this and that to discover what smells, tastes, sounds, touches, and sights stimulate you and your partner/s for an exhilarating play.