Suspension Piercing - Exploring a Unique Body Practice
There's a fascinating world of body expression that reaches far beyond the usual earlobe or nose adornment. It’s a practice that involves a temporary, yet profound, connection between the human form and the air around it. This unique activity, known as suspension piercing, draws people in with its blend of physical sensation, personal meaning, and often, a sense of deep calm. It is, to be honest, something that captures attention and sparks a lot of questions for those who encounter it.
At its heart, suspension piercing is about lifting a person off the ground using special hooks. These hooks go through temporary piercings made in the skin. The idea, you see, is to experience something quite different, a feeling that many describe as truly transformative. It's a practice that has roots stretching back through time, yet it continues to evolve and gain interest in our modern world, often for very personal reasons, or just a little bit for the sheer experience of it.
For some, this practice is a way to explore personal boundaries, to find a sense of peace, or perhaps to connect with ancient rituals. Others might be curious about the physical sensations or the mental challenge involved. Whatever the motivation, it’s a practice that really invites a closer look, offering a different perspective on what body modification can be. So, let’s take a moment to really explore what this practice is all about, from its long history to how it’s done today.
Table of Contents
- What is Suspension Piercing, Actually?
- A Look at the Roots of Suspension Piercing
- How Does Suspension Piercing Happen?
- What Kinds of Suspension Piercing Are There?
- Why Do People Choose Suspension Piercing?
- Are There Any Real Concerns with Suspension Piercing?
- Modern Day Suspension Piercing - A Growing Practice
- Finding a Safe Space for Suspension Piercing
What is Suspension Piercing, Actually?
When people talk about suspension piercing, they are really talking about the act of hanging a person in the air. This is done by placing special hooks through the skin in various spots on the body. Sometimes, these hooks go into fresh, temporary piercings, and sometimes they might connect to piercings that are already there. It's a distinct form of body modification, one that involves lifting the body completely or partially off the ground. Basically, it’s about experiencing gravity in a completely new way, with your body supported by these points of connection. This can be, you know, quite a striking visual and physical experience for participants and observers alike.
The practice itself is quite specific. It’s not just about getting a piercing; it’s about using those piercings as attachment points for ropes or cables that then lift the person. The term "body suspension" is often used to describe this overall activity. It’s a temporary thing, meaning the hooks are put in for the session and then taken out afterwards. This isn't a permanent alteration to the body, which is, in some respects, a key difference from many other body modifications. The whole setup needs careful planning and execution, naturally, to make sure everything goes smoothly and safely.
A Look at the Roots of Suspension Piercing
The idea of hanging from hooks in the skin is, surprisingly enough, not a new invention. This practice has roots that go back thousands of years. Records show similar activities were taking place as far back as five thousand years ago in India, for example, during special celebrations. It's almost as if the human desire to push limits and connect with something deeper has always been there. In other parts of the world, like South America and Asia, tribal groups have been doing forms of suspension for ages, often as a way to mark important life events, particularly for young men moving into adulthood. It was, you know, a very significant rite of passage.
One notable historical reference comes from the First Nations Mandan tribe, where rituals involving hooks in the skin were a part of their spiritual practices. These ancient customs weren't just about physical endurance; they were deeply tied to community, spirituality, and personal growth. Over time, these practices have evolved, moving from strictly ritualistic settings to something that can be explored for individual experience or as a performance art. So, the tradition, in a way, has kept its essence while changing its outer form.
How Does Suspension Piercing Happen?
The process of a body suspension involves several careful steps. First, a skilled practitioner, usually someone who is also a professional body piercer, creates the temporary piercings. These aren't like regular piercings meant for jewelry; they're placed strategically to support the body's weight. The number and placement of these points depend on the type of suspension planned. For instance, if someone wants to hang upright, the hooks might go into their back. It's really important that these temporary openings are made cleanly and with the right tools, using very strict hygiene practices. This is, quite frankly, a critical part of keeping everyone safe.
Once the temporary piercings are ready, special hooks are gently inserted. These hooks are then connected to a system of ropes and pulleys. The practitioner, with the help of a team, slowly and carefully lifts the person off the ground. The entire setup is designed to distribute the weight as evenly as possible across the chosen points. The equipment used is quite specialized, including the hooks themselves, the ropes, and the rigging. It’s all chosen to be strong and reliable, with safety being the absolute top concern. Practitioners often follow specific guidelines, like those based on Canadian standards and legislation, to make sure everything is done correctly and securely. This attention to detail is, essentially, what makes the practice possible.
What Kinds of Suspension Piercing Are There?
There are quite a few different ways people can experience suspension piercing, each with its own feeling and look. One of the more common forms is often called "suicide suspension," where the person hangs vertically, typically from hooks placed in their back. This position, you see, can create a powerful sensation of being pulled upwards. Other types include "chest suspensions," where hooks are placed across the chest, and "coma suspensions," which might involve hanging face down. Each position offers a different kind of physical and mental experience, and people often choose one based on what they hope to get out of it.
Beyond these general types, there are also "hook suspensions" and "energy pulls." These are often seen as more intense forms of body modification. The choice of how many hooks to use and where to put them really depends on the desired position and the individual's comfort level. Some people might try a suspension with just a few hooks, while others might use many more for a different kind of sensation or to achieve a particular artistic pose. It’s all about finding the right arrangement for the person and the experience they want to have. The variety, in a way, allows for a lot of personal expression within the practice.
Why Do People Choose Suspension Piercing?
The reasons someone might choose to try suspension piercing are as varied as the people themselves. For many, it's a deeply personal experience, often described as a form of ritual. It's not just about the physical act; it's about what happens internally. Some talk about a profound sense of peace that washes over them, sometimes lasting for days or even weeks after a session. This feeling of calm can be a powerful draw, offering a unique kind of mental reset. It’s a very different kind of peace, you know, than what most people might expect from such an activity.
Others are drawn to the physical sensations, describing an "adrenaline rush" that releases good feelings. It's a way to explore the body's limits and responses in a controlled environment. For some, the relationship with pain in suspension is not about avoiding it, but rather about accepting it as a natural part of the experience. It becomes a pathway to a different state of mind, a form of "body play" that offers unique insights. A practitioner might share their personal story, talking about a decade of experience and the lessons learned. It’s, basically, a very individual journey for everyone involved.
Are There Any Real Concerns with Suspension Piercing?
Like any body modification, especially one that involves temporary piercings and lifting the body, suspension piercing does come with considerations for safety. The main concerns revolve around health risks, such as infection or tissue damage, if the practice isn't done correctly. That's why it's absolutely vital to go to experienced and professional practitioners. These individuals understand how to prepare the skin, use sterile equipment, and handle the hooks and rigging in a way that minimizes potential problems. They should also be well-versed in local health standards and regulations, like those found in Canadian guidelines, to ensure a clean and safe environment. It's, quite honestly, the most important part of the whole thing.
The equipment itself also needs to be of good quality and properly maintained. Hooks must be sterile and suitable for the purpose, and ropes and other rigging must be strong enough to hold the weight safely. Reprocessing of equipment, meaning cleaning and sterilizing tools between uses, is a key part of preventing the spread of any issues. While the practice can offer deep personal benefits, ignoring these safety aspects could lead to serious problems. So, anyone thinking about it should really do their homework and make sure they're working with people who prioritize health and safety above all else. This careful approach, you know, helps keep the experience a positive one.
Modern Day Suspension Piercing - A Growing Practice
In our current times, body suspension has continued to gain interest and spread across different parts of the world. What might have once been a very private or niche activity is now becoming more widely known, with more people exploring it. It's fascinating to see how an ancient practice has found new life and meaning in contemporary settings. You'll find studios and practitioners, like Steve Truitt, who opened Ascension Body Modification, or Nick Aconite, a professional body piercer involved in setting up suspensions, who are helping to make this practice accessible to those who are curious. These people are, in a way, guiding the modern evolution of suspension.
The growth of suspension piercing means more opportunities for people to learn about it and perhaps even try it for themselves. It’s no longer something only a few people know about; it's becoming a recognized, albeit extreme, form of body modification. The community around it is also growing, with individuals sharing their experiences and offering advice. This collective sharing helps to demystify the practice and highlight the personal journeys involved. It’s, basically, a testament to the human desire for unique experiences and self-discovery.
Finding a Safe Space for Suspension Piercing
If the idea of suspension piercing sparks your interest, finding a safe and reputable place to experience it is absolutely key. Look for studios that specialize in extreme body modification and have experienced practitioners. Places that are "sterile" and "professional" are the ones you want to seek out. These studios will have staff who are well-trained and understand the specific requirements for this kind of activity, from preparing the temporary piercings to setting up the lifting apparatus. They should also be open about their safety protocols and happy to answer any questions you have. It's, quite frankly, about trust and expertise.
Many places, like some studios in Australia, offer safe environments where people can learn about suspension piercing and try it. They often have strict hygiene practices and follow established guidelines to ensure the well-being of participants. When you're considering this kind of experience, it's a good idea to talk to people who have done it before and get their advice. Their experiences can offer valuable insights into what to expect and how to prepare. Ultimately, choosing a place with a solid reputation for safety and professionalism will help ensure that your experience, whatever your reasons for it, is a positive one. This careful approach, you know, makes all the difference.
This exploration of suspension piercing has covered quite a bit, from its long history stretching back thousands of years to its modern-day practice. We've talked about what it actually is – the act of being lifted by hooks in temporary piercings – and looked at the different ways it can be done. We also touched on the many personal reasons why people choose to engage with it, whether for a sense of peace, an adrenaline rush, or as a form of ritual. Importantly, we discussed the serious need for safety, emphasizing the role of professional practitioners and proper equipment. The practice continues to evolve, drawing in those who seek a unique form of body expression and personal discovery.
