Darkside Issue 49 | Page 87

Darkside 87
expectations , being aware of the safety and pre-existing health conditions that may potentially harm or disrupt the health of another .
In the vanilla or “ socially norm ” world , negotiation between two humans occurs daily ; whether negotiating a project , finances , or the type of relationship friends , or associates one desires to have . Negotiation is a great way to establish boundaries . Nothing is “ implied ” in any scene , not even one ’ s consent . It is important to not make assumptions of what a partner expects from their Top or the one initiating the scene . Checking in with one ’ s partner is an important part of any scene . It is imperative to know whether or not one ’ s play partner is still in a conscious and aware state in order for them to further consent to any act before it is practiced on them .
Negotiating with Potential Play Partners in Various Settings
Once you have established a better understanding and acquaintance with what it looks like for one ’ s self to be a part of the lifestyle , it is now time to mingle with others . That starts with meeting these people . In the lifestyle of B . D . S . M and kink and fetish , it isn ’ t common to meet potential play partners in vanilla spaces , which is why most major cities and towns have created their own communities and safe spaces for like-minded individuals to meet and meld . Trying to figure how to find these people can seem like such a dilemma , especially when being unsure of where to start . Where does such a taboo-loving person find their people ? Some people have used the web and explored various adult alternative lifestyle-friendly sites and apps , which have their pros and cons . But also , in some cases , online has been successful for kinksters to find their tribe . When exploring online , this isn ’ t something that happens overnight . When it comes to establishing new friendships and partnerships , it is important to remember to take your time and tread lightly , especially with potential play partners in this lifestyle . Not everyone has the same intentions in this lifestyle , nor practice the same protocols and ethics as you . So it is important to VET .

When it comes to establishing new friendships and partnerships , it is important to take your time

Stay dark