Phillip and Kat drew a literally standing-room-only crowd for their recent program and demonstration of spanking, showing the popularity of this seemingly simplest of techniques.

The program started with Phillip defining spanking in general, and some of the reasons for its popularity. Audience members were encouraged to share their views on what they got out of it. The majority of tops and bottoms alike seemed to agree that the best part of a spanking was the feeling of intimacy involved. Other reasons among the bottoms included a feeling of loving discipline/attention from the spanker and an expiation of any guilt as a result of the discipline. The tops appreciated the greater control it gave them (as opposed to toys), the fact that it is always on hand (so to speak), and the spontaneity available. It was also mentioned that the sound itself was a wonderful thing to many players.

Phillip moved on to cover safety issues involved in spanking, reminding everyone that although simple, there are still several important things to remember in the delivery. Using Kat (dubbed the Wonder Bottom by some in attendance) and a set of markers as a visual aid, Phillip pointed out areas to be careful of, including the coccyx (tailbone/base of spine) and the sciatic nerve area, running low and on the outside the buttocks into the thighs. He noted that neither area is likely to provide a 'good' feeling, but accidental damage could cause long-term problems. He targeted the safe areas for striking. In addition, he also pointed out the "sweet spot", an area with clusters of nerves known as dermatomes (approximately where the buttocks joins the inner thigh) which transmits the sensation to the genitals.

In addition, it was mentioned that during initial negotiations, the top be aware of health conditions that might be effected. People on blood-thinning agents (Coumadin/warfarin, aspirin, ibuprofen) should let this be know because of their risk of severe bruising. Because of the small blood vessel damage in diabetics, care should be taken because injuries tend to take longer to heal. Also, it was pointed out that some of the positions for spanking can be uncomfortable and also can (because of the bending) restrict breathing a bit, and that the top should keep this in mind. Care (if necessary) following a spanking was also discussed, and cold compresses and ice seemed to be the most common first-aid treatments, although other suggestions included a thin layer of toothpaste and an ultrasound unit.

At this point, Phillip went on to discuss some of the uses and techniques of spanking. It was noted that as 'foreplay', the striker might wish to start out less forcefully, but if being used as a disciplinary measure, going for the gusto right away would be appropriate, although, as with everything, it varies upon the individuals. He also pointed out that varying the sensations, especially once the bottom's bottom has been warmed up can produce interesting responses. Phillip also mentioned the importance of communication with your partner, because individual needs after a spanking differ; some want and need to pull away, while others have to have the close contact.

While technically within the realm of paddling, many people incorporate the use of toys in their spanking play. The audience was invited to share some of the things that they'd found worked. Among these were hair brushes (either side), some bath scrub brushes, and a golf glove (a few liked the idea of rollerblade gloves, too, but had yet to try this). It was pointed out by one of the attendees to be careful when using plastic ping-pong paddles, as the plastic can get brittle with cold and age, and could then break leaving a jagged edge and more harm than initially intended. Phillip also shared some of the toys he had brought along, including several types of paddles, straps, canes, crops, and floggers. He reinforced that the same strike zones of the buttocks apply when using any of these.

After the break, Kat and Phillip gave a demonstration, which was in itself a tribute to the finesse of a good spanking. Initially started as playful and with a lot of joking, it wasn't too long before the room could feel the intensity and intimacy evolve. Just as a side note, without seeming to make a conscious effort, Phillip never missed his marks. Afterwards, those who had an available bottom were invited to try what they'd seen, and many in the room did.

All-in-all, this was a very well attended and presented program. It was both informative and humorous, and kudos to Phillip and Kat for an excellent presentation.

Posted with permission from Society of Janus
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