What is BDSM?

LUOOV BDSM is an umbrella term that refers to a spectrum of sexual behaviours and preferences that can be divvied up into the groups of bondage and discipline, domination and submission, sadism and masochism.

"Although some people think that BDSM is 'kinky', in some cases it doesn't have to involve sex at all – the mental connotations of some acts are more of a turn-on than the prelude of a particular act leading to sex," Annabelle explains.

"Many specific practices by lovers who indulge in BDSM are performed in neutral, mutually consenting relationships. This emphasis on informed consent is of paramount importance when carrying out a BDSM act because BDSM often involves varying degrees of pain, physical restraint and servitude."

Annabelle says tying your lover up, spanking them or putting a dog chain around their neck and making them crawl around on all fours are just a several examples of a spectrum of BDSM activities. While these might be considered "kinky" activities, remember that if this kind of thing doesn't float your boat but you're still keen to explore, there is a whole range of fetish and kink beyond these dynamics: preferences for particular smells or fabrics and forms of play which don't revolve around exchanges of power.