What do you think about when someone mentions “sensation play”? Do you think about the soft tickle of a feather, the sharp tingle of hot wax, or the cool chill of an ice cube?
Maybe it’s something you’ve never given some thought before, but you’re curious.
Sensation Play is all about using touch and temperature to explore pleasure. Whether you’re into the soft, soothing sensations or something with a bit more intensity, there’s a lot of room for discovery.
Let’s explore it in this article.
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Table of Contents
What is Sensation Play?
Sensation Play is a type of physical play meant to stimulate a lot of different senses at the same time. The goal is to explore the sensations that different tools and techniques can create.
It’s not always focused on pain either. Sometimes, it’s as gentle as a feather. Other times, it can be as intense as ice or a slight electric shock. Everyone’s preferences are different, and that’s part of what makes this type of play so exciting, you get to experiment!
Roles in Sensation Play
Like other types of BDSM, sensation play often involves roles:
- Top: The person giving the sensation (like dripping wax or using a feather).
- Bottom: The person receiving the sensation.
- Switch: Someone who enjoys both giving and receiving.
Your role doesn’t have to be set in stone—some days you might want to switch things up. The key to enjoying this play is clear communication. Before starting, discuss what sensations you want to try, your boundaries, and your interests.
Tip: Before any scene, my partner and I always have what we call a “check-in.” This is where we sit down and talk about what we want to explore, what we’re not interested in, and what kind of aftercare we need afterward. It’s like setting the foundation for a great experience.
Techniques to Try in Sensation Play
- Temperature Play: Use ice cubes for a cool sensation, or try wax play (with proper candles) for a brief heat. You can also alternate between hot and cold for an extra thrill.
- Soft Textures: Feathers, silk, or even a fluffy scarf can create gentle, teasing sensations across the skin.
- Scratching and Tickling: Some people love the feeling of nails gently scraping their skin, or the light tickle from a brush or feather duster.
- Electric Play: For more advanced players, a TENS unit (often used in physical therapy) can deliver small electric pulses that feel like tiny, controlled shocks.
Tip: I like to alternate between a soft feather and something slightly more intense, like a fingernail scratch. The contrast between soft and sharp sensations creates an exciting blend of feelings that keeps things interesting.
Combining Sensation Play with Other Types of Play
Example: During one session, we combined wax play with D/s dynamics. My partner would only drip the wax when I asked for it—building anticipation and emphasizing control. It was an unforgettable experience because the sensations weren’t just physical, but emotional as well.
Mindfulness and Sensation Play
Here’s where sensation play can become a mindfulness exercise. It’s not just about feeling physical sensations, but also about becoming aware of how those sensations affect your body and mind.
- Ask yourself: Where do you feel this sensation the most? Does it travel through your body?
- Notice: Does the sensation bring up any emotions? Are you feeling excited, calm, or something else?
- Breathe together: Try syncing your breath with your partner’s or breathing in rhythm with the sensations. It can heighten the connection and make the experience more intimate.
Example: One of my favorite things to do during sensation play is focus on my breathing. If I know wax is about to drip, I’ll take a deep breath in as it’s readied, and slowly exhale as it falls. This helps me stay grounded in the moment.
Staying Safe: Sensation Play Precautions
Safety is key, especially when experimenting with new sensations. Here are some practical steps to ensure your play is enjoyable and safe:
- Communication is crucial: Before any scene, discuss what types of sensations you want to explore. Talk about your likes, dislikes, and any hard limits.
- Be informed and aware: Learn how to use each tool safely. For instance, wax candles for play are different from regular candles—make sure you’re using the right supplies.
- Know the risks: Some types of play, like scratching or wax play, can leave marks. Be sure to talk about whether leaving marks is okay and where they should be.
- Consent matters: Always get your partner’s enthusiastic consent before engaging in any form of sensation play.
Conclusion: Explore Sensations
Sensation play is a unique way to explore physical touch, temperature, and textures with your partner. The possibilities are endless, and the best part is how customizable it can be to your preferences. Start slow, communicate openly, and have fun experimenting!
And don’t forget to check out our Best BDSM Toy Picks..