Ishidaki
Definition
Ishidaki is a Japanese kneeling board or punishment board used to force someone to sit or rest in a kneeling position for a long period of time on a rough, hard, or painful surface. It is a traditional torture and punishment device that is used in modern BDSM as a discipline tool or for inflicting pain.
Explanation of Ishidaki
The original ishidaki board consisted of a wooden plank with small stones or wooden pegs, intended to make sitting or kneeling extremely uncomfortable. In Japan, this method was historically used as a form of punishment or obedience training, often in monasteries, military schools, or military contexts.
Within BDSM, the ishidaki board has been rediscovered as a form of physical and mental submission. The sub kneels on the board – often naked or blindfolded – and is sometimes tied down or required to remain still while the pain slowly increases. The pressure of the body weight on the hard points causes intense, burning pain in the knees and lower legs, which over time turns into numbness or trance-like calm.
The game is often symbolic: it combines penance, discipline, humiliation, and surrender. For some, kneeling on an ishidaki represents a moment of purification, for others a pure sadomasochistic challenge.
Safety & points of attention
Although the effect of an ishidaki seems simple visually, the pain load can quickly become high.
Never let the sub sit for too long. Alternate or let him stand up occasionally to restore blood flow.
After a few minutes, redness or swelling may occur; stop if numbness or tingling occurs.
Use a cloth or thin cushion for beginners to reduce the intensity.
Prolonged pressure on the nerves in the knees or calves can cause temporary nerve compression.
Take age or injuries into account: use is not recommended for knee problems or poor blood circulation.
Related terms Ishidaki
Discipline
Kneeling
Punishment
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