Hook Suspension
Hook suspension refers to the act of hanging the human body from hooks that pierce the skin. This can involve full, off-the-ground, suspension by hooks, or hook or flesh "pulls," where a person is pulled by their hooked skin but not suspended.
While not strictly a BDSM practice, it has lots of overlap with kink, both in terms of the community that practices it and why people do it. It is often practiced in communities that are into piercing, tattooing, and other body modifications.
In BDSM scenes, some edgeplay specialists offer private or dungeon-based suspensions. These practitioners are often deeply experienced in risk-aware consensual kink and may combine suspension with other elements like pain play or bondage.
How It Works
Sharpened hooks made a of surgical-grade stainless steel are inserted into areas of the skin. Common suspension points include:
- Upper back (shoulder blades)
- Knees, thighs, calves, and chest
- Elbows, forearms, abdomen
Hooks are attached via ropes to pulleys, a suspension rig, or even tree limbs in an outdoor setting. Then tension is slowly applied to the ropes, stretching the skin. The participant may or may not be lifted off the ground.
Why People Are Into It
Most people who have been suspended see it as less of a physical act, and more as a personal emotional - and even spiritual - journey. They may do it for:
Empowerment
Some people compare hook suspension to running a marathon or giving birth. The act of lifting off the ground involves overcoming fear and expanding their sense of what's possible.
Coping with Trauma
A physical challenge like suspension can be a way to cope with trauma, stress, and emotional overload, one that brings clarity and peace when the suspension is over.
Adrenaline & Endorphins
The intense sensations of hook suspension brings many people a rush of endorphins and provides an intense natural high.
Meditation & Calm
Hook suspension can feel meditative and euphoric, especially once the initial pain fades. Many people experience a state of flow, presence, or trance-like calm while suspended.
Performance
Much like suspension bondage, hook suspension can be visually striking. Some people love the performance and the fun of flying up in front of a crowd.
Safety & Consent
Hook suspension comes with the risk of skin tearing, infection, emotional overwhelm, and fainting or shock. And, yes, it hurts! (Although many people say they are able to transform that pain into a feeling of intensity that brings them a sense of peace and calmness.)
Hook suspension is typically performed by professionals in body modification or piercing. Vet them as you would a good piercer or tattoo artist - by doing your research, asking them questions, and even reaching out to others they've worked with. At the very least, you'll want to work with someone with extensive experience and training in skin piercing, knowledge of rigging, and excellent communication and consent practices.
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