Sensory Play 101: Different types of sensory play

Sensory play is such a varied concept. Most people engage in some sort of sensory play, probably without even knowing. So we’re going to break everything down into four groups and then give some examples as we talk about each. 

Texture Play: The first type we are going to focus on is texture play. This is a great example showing a type of sensory play that most people engage in without realizing. Some of the things that are encompassed within this category are: 

• silk/soft scarves or lingerie
• feathers/boas
• massage
• light touch w/implements or fingertips/nails
• hair play

This type of play typically involves sensations that range from soothing to ticklish. The sensation you are searching for will be found in a combination between implementation of the tool and the amount of pressure used. Some texture implements like the Wartenberg wheel can offer a prickly sensation and come in a number of different styles, sizes and pattern variations. A few mentions we didn’t note: leather, scratchers, claws. But really anything that you can rub along the skin would most like fall under this category. As always, play safe!

Deprivation: Another very common type of sensory play is deprivation. In the simplest form to explain, a blindfold would be an ideal example. If you haven’t participated yourself, most have probably watched a scene in a movie or on TV where someone is blindfolded in an intimate situation. Deprivation play is meant to mute or lower one sense so that your other senses become heightened. I would also classify deprivation of ability in this category, i.e. binding. While there is certainly a more extreme side to this type of play some of the common methods are:

• Blindfolds
• Headphones to overshadow
             - music
             - relaxing/meditative sounds
             - white noise
• Binding
             - handcuffs
             - rope
             - restraints
• Gags

Always remember, everything is under your control and at your speed. You don’t have to take part in everything. Learn, grow, set boundaries, and explore at your own comfort. For example, I would never suggest that someone completely new to deprivation play allow themselves to be gagged, blindfolded, handcuffed, with noise cancelling headphones their first time. It would be a complete shock to the senses, and possibly traumatic. Baby steps.

Temperature play: Temperature play also casts a wide net of experiences. Essentially you have two ways to go with this one, hot and cold. Some of the safe most commonly used are:

• Ice
• Low temp, skin safe candles
• Warm massage oil
• Massage candles

While caution is needed for all things affecting skin temperature; these options provide safe tools when used properly. One thing to mention with ice, do not leave it stationary while in contact skin for longer than a second or two.

One fun thing to do with temperature play is combining hot with cold. Alternating between using a piece of ice to stimulate one area of the body and dripping hot wax from a low-temp play candle on another. For something different, coat your mouth with ice/very chilled water or hot coffee/tea/etc before.. kissing.. and “other stuff”.
*Always use low temp candles on clean, dry skin

Impact play: Our last bullet point for the day is impact play. Most couples experience this on some level as well. Even if it's just a playful swat while one partner is making dinner. There is a feeling that goes through most of us when the trust and communication within a relationship is healthy and clear. Acknowledging that everyone’s past, preference and reaction is different - talking about consent shows consideration, commitment to communication and building trust, and understanding of empathy toward your partner. 

For those willing participants of impact play, your tools are abundant and nearly infinite. If I listed the common implements of impact play, it would take up just as much space as the rest of the article combined. Maybe I’ll take a look at that more in depth in the future! Let's focus on the type of sensations impact play can create. 

“Thuddy” - typically done with a heavier possibly padded instrument. Mallets, textured or padded paddles, clubs.. It almost sounds medieval, but these may be some of the most forgiving when it comes to pain mediation. The sensation level is modified by the amount of energy put into the impact and type of implement being used. It’s a thud that can reverberate the entire body without giving the slapping sensation indicative of our next experience. 

Thuddy at higher levels can result in throbbing and bruising. While the impact itself can be described as heavy/weighted or pressure. 

“Sting-y” - Quite a different sensation than thuddy. While paddles are also common for this feeling: floggers, crops, canes, and whips are often used. Probably not the canes and whips those unfamiliar with this type of play would envision. These utensils are specifically made for impact play. 

Stingy at higher levels can result in welts, tingling, and burning. Can be described as a slapping or stinging, and can be as light or heavy as negotiated. 

As in all parts of a relationship, your success in experimentation, to a large degree, is going to rely on the level of communication, ability to speak honestly, patience, and consideration of your partner. 

If you are interested in temperature play that includes low temp or massage candles, please check out our inventory here!