Domination & submission _ the BDSM relationship handbook ( PDFDrive )

Tantric Buddhism involves harnessing one’s psycho-physical energy through
rituals, visualizations, physical exercises, and various forms of meditation.
Some practitioners of tantric Buddhism perform sexual yoga as part of their
training regimen. With the exception of this practice of sexual yoga, there is
actually very little in Buddhist literature or teachings about sexuality in general.
The Buddhist admonition against “sensual misconduct” can be interpreted in a
variety of ways, including the strictest possible interpretation, which would be
that any sensual conduct at all may be considered misconduct. If that were truly
the case, then there would seem to be little point in discussing which specific
BDSM activities are in harmony with Buddhism. If we assume, however, that
sensuality in general is not necessarily a bad thing, then we can attempt to
interpret at least a few of the Eight Precepts from within a BDSM context. A
case could certainly be made that Precept One, which teaches non-violence,
effectively rules out most activities related to sadomasochism, bondage, and
impact play. Precept Four, which encourages truth-telling, could easily be
interpreted as a prohibition on role playing. Precept Seven might make it
difficult to observe a scene at any BDSM event or gathering, since that would be
considered “attending a performance.” Precept Eight would likely discourage
the use of highly customized BDSM equipment and furniture. It would seem to
the casual observer that the basic tenets of Buddhism do not mesh well with
some of the most commonly practiced BDSM activities. But what might
Buddhism have to say about the D/s relationship dynamic?
Remember, Domination/submission – at least as we’ve defined it in these pages
– refers to the relationship dynamic between two or more individuals. It is what
is in their heads and hearts; it governs how they relate to one another. It is not
necessarily about whips and chains. Given that definition of D/s, we can be
relatively certain that there would be little in the Eight Precepts of Buddhism
that would be inconsistent with being involved in a loving, non-violent D/s
relationship.