In this workshop, we will explore the “how” and the “why” in Naka Style of semenawa as interpreted by Naoko, the third deshi of Naka Akira sensei. We will learn together through discussion, observations of demonstrations by Naoko, and exercises on both hard and soft techniques.

Some of the topics covered include:

• The meaning of semenawa. Semenawa is often translated and interpreted as “torment ropes”. This translation does not always accurately encapsulate the subtle nuances in semenawa. We will delve into concepts of reading, showing and moving the model in the context of semenawa, and understand space, time and distance in a session.
• Understanding semenawa not as sequences and rigid shapes, but as progressions in feelings. “Rope is free” - as what Naka-sensei and Naoko believe. We will explore the deeper meaning of every single rope.
• Traditional aesthetics.

Special notes:

1. Naoko will adapt her teaching to the students. Exercises may be floor ties or suspensions depending on the level, progression and interest of the students.
2. Naoko’s education in Naka Style is solely from private lessons with Naka-sensei in Tokyo. This means her teaching style, techniques and philosophy are more Japanese-influenced which may differ from the interpretation by other teachers. Please keep an open mind and be ready to explore a different approach.

Prerequisites

For the one tying / rigger / rope top:

• Basic understanding of Naka Style of gote (in any interpretation)
• Experience in floor ties and suspensions
• Good understanding of suspension line management
• Good understanding of safety in Shibari (which include the physical and the psychological aspects)
• Ready to engage in discussions on traditional Japanese concepts

For the one getting tied / model / rope bottom:

• Feel comfortable being tied and suspended in Naka Style of gote (in any interpretation)
• Experience in floor ties and suspensions
• Open to expressing and communicating vulnerabilities in rope
• Good understanding of safety in Shibari (which include the physical and the psychological aspects), especially the difference between nerve compression and blood circulation loss
• Ready to engage in discussions on traditional Japanese concepts

What to bring

• Jute ropes (at least 10-12 lengths of ropes, 5-6mm in diameter). We also suggest having varying lengths of ropes (some longer and shorter ones are always helpful)
• Safety shears or any other suitable cutting tools
• Notepad and a pen (phones are not allowed for note-taking)
• Comfortable clothing
• Snacks and drinks
• Aftercare items
• Respect, kindness and an open mind :)

* Naoko requests a phone-free environment for the weekend. If note-taking on your phone is a matter of accessibility, please let us know in advance of the weekend.

About Naoko (formerly Subay)

Born and raised in Hong Kong, Naoko is a Shibari artist, performer and educator based in London. She is the founder of Studio Yukari (London, 2022) and Kokoro Studio (Hong Kong, 2015). She is part of Nawa Naka Kai 縄奈加会 and in 2023 was recognised as the third deshi of Naka Akira 奈加あきら sensei.

Around 2011, Naoko was introduced to Shibari as a Shibari model. Deeply fascinated by its aesthetics, eroticism and emotions, she began studying the art of Japanese rope bondage in Japan. Being drawn to the raw expression of vulnerability in semenawa 責め縄, Naoko found her teacher Naka Akira sensei and has been formally studying with him since.

Naoko’s style of semenawa is described to be “feminine and inclusive”. She draws great inspirations from her short encounter with Yukimura Haruki in 2014. Using rope to engage in an empathic conversation forms the heart of her style in Shibari. Having had extensive experience in multiple tying styles, and vast exposure to different rope communities in Asia and in the West, she has developed a unique, adaptive and evolving approach to tying and teaching.

Naoko has taught and performed in over 20 cities, and has had the honour of assisting Naka Sensei at his Nawa-kai, Satsuei-kai and Kenkyuu-kai in Tokyo, alongside his international workshops in London, San Francisco and Copenhagen.

Instagram: naoko_london (formerly @nawa_naoko)

X (previously Twitter): nawa_naoko

Website: www.shibari.hk / www.shibari.uk

Email: naoko@studioyukari.com