Firstly, let's define what we mean by 'Kink'/ BDSM (Bondage-Discipline, Dominance-Submission, Sadism-Masochism) so we don't get all 50 shades of grey. Jay Wiseman from the 'bible' of BDSM, 'SM 101, a realistic introduction' (1996), defines BDSM or Kinky activity as:

The knowing use of psychological dominance and submission, and/or physical bondage, and/or pain, and/or related practices in a safe, legal, consensual manner in order for the participants to experience erotic arousal and/or personal growth. (p. 10)

Historically, humans have always engaged in 'kinky' sex. However, in more recent history (I'm side-eyes looking at you, Freud) BDSM practices were demonised and pathologised. Intriguingly though, scientific studies from the past two decades have examined the health consequences of BDSM practitioners. Here are three intriguing findings suggesting BDSM is actually as good for you as jogging and mindfulness.

1. Reduces Stress. Put down the stress ball and pick up the stress ball-gag. A 2009 study found lower levels of cortisol by testing couples' saliva post 'scene' (technical word for a kinky session) [1]. The researchers theorise this is to do with the 'flow state' or mindfulness kink induces. Much like the mental state artists, composers and even joggers achieve. Even if kink isn't for you, mindful sex is possible whatever you're into. Next time you play, focus your mind on pleasurable sensations and your breath.

2. Improve Immunity. Demand a Medicare rebate for your crop? Potentially. But the actual scientific studies still need to be done (any bored researchers out there, please get on top of this). This wonderfully thorough blog post by The Frisky Business however gives the breakdown of a spanking session from the perspective of endorphin release. Blood flow plus endorphins = improved immunity, apparently. Their disclaimer advises this is not written by a medical doctor however three medical practitioners gave it a head nod. We prefer to be as thorough as possible at Passionfruit (like any good Domme) but this is good enough for now as a fun theory. (seriously though, anyone who knows more about endorphins, kink and health- please get in touch!) 

3. Good Psychological Health. A study surveying a few hundred kinky versus non-kinky people found significantly better scores for areas indicating psychological wellbeing. BDSM practitioners were "less neurotic, more extraverted, more open to new experiences, more conscientious, less rejection sensitive, and had higher subjective well-being" [2]. Pipe up next time you hear people talking about kinky sexual practices as being 'crazy'.

Finally, one study interviewed in depth a handful of BDSM practitioners across the spectrum from dominant to submissive to switches (they enjoy both roles in different contexts). [3] These are the quoted benefits they felt from being kinky:

"pleasure from pleasuring others, physical pleasure and arousal, fun, variety, personal growth, improved romantic relationships, community, psychological release, freedom from day-to-day roles, and being yourself"

Some couples try to get all that from salsa classes... I know which I'd prefer.

Sign up to our newsletter to stay on top of blog posts, cat gifs and events! (mostly cats)

 

[1] Sagarin, B. J., Cutler, B., Cutler, N., Lawler-Sagarin, K. A., & Matuszewich, L. (2009). Hormonal changes and couple bonding in consensual sadomasochistic activity. Archives of Sexual Behavior, 38(2), 186-200.

[2] Wismeijer, A. A., & Assen, M. A. (2013). Psychological characteristics of BDSM practitioners. The journal of sexual medicine, 10(8), 1943-1952.

[3] Hébert, A., & Weaver, A. (2015). Perks, problems, and the people who play: A qualitative exploration of dominant and submissive BDSM roles. The Canadian Journal of Human Sexuality, 24(1), 49-62.