BDSM 101: What is BDSM?

BDSM is different for everybody. But its commonly known as B/D (Bondage and Discipline), D/s (Dominance and submission), and S/M (Sadism and Masochism).  BDSM is an umbrella term used for anything that may not be considered normal sexual activity (or vanilla) according to society standards.

You do not have to participate in any part of BDSM that you don't want to to be considered part of the BDSM community. Anybody that tells you otherwise is wrong and you need to stay away from that person (this is known as a red flag).

There are no set rules or definitions within the BDSM community but they are generalities that most agree upon.

One major thing that everybody agrees upon is consent. Consent is the major factor in distinguishing abuse and BDSM. There is consent within BDSM; while there is no consent when it comes to abuse.

Another thing everybody in the BDSM community agrees with is the need to have open and honest communication. Without this; then there is no way to actually give your consent if you have no idea what is going to happen. Plus practicing BDSM usually involves extreme acts that will create extreme emotions. If one person is unable to communicate with their partner then the relationship will be strained and very likely fail.

This is just a very basic and overall explanation of BDSM.

I will go more in-depth into the different roles and activities that are part of the umbrella of BDSM in the future.