A common area of confusion when taking the first steps in Yagami Ryu is the distinction between technique and application. For example, Hon Musubi and Single Column.
Hon Musubi and Single Column Are Not the Same
Single Column is a knotting technique used to secure a rope around a post, column, or similar object.
Hon Musubi, on the other hand, is an application of this technique during a shibari session, involving considerations that go beyond the knot itself.
Tying an object is relatively straightforward once you’ve mastered the required skills. The object doesn’t care how you tie it, as long as the knot is functional, easy to tie and untie, secure, and stable.
However, when engaging in an erotic interaction with another person, the focus shifts from manual skills to managing emotions (desire) through the exchange, surrender, or control of emotional dynamics.
This isn’t about building bonds. No. Bonds are something else, tied to a different range of emotions (love), and for emotional hygiene, these should not be mixed or confused with desire.
Both emotions are valid, but each should remain in its proper context.
Recently, a course participant, Charles Ilcoalt, shared a tutorial on how to perform this tie.
The video is highly recommended as it explains the knotting process in great detail.
After watching it, I felt inspired to write this article (yes, it’s a bit lengthy) to clarify how Hon Musubi is applied to a single column. This technique will be used in many other parts and moments of your shibari sessions.
Since this tie often marks the beginning of a shibari session, we’ll use this video as a starting point to explore it beyond the mere knotting technique.
Note: The video has age restrictions, so you’ll need to log in to YouTube to view it.
1. Direction
Is there a difference between wrapping inward-outward (as shown in the video) versus outward-inward?
Yes, there is a clear and significant difference. The body perceives the direction of the wrap because it interacts with the fascia.
This direction signals the brain to prepare that part of the body for movement in the same direction.
Wrapping inward-outward, as shown in the video, prompts the leg toward external rotation. Conversely, wrapping outward-inward signals internal rotation.
If your next movement doesn’t align with this cue, you’ll create "noise" in the communication, sending contradictory signals.
When faced with mixed signals, the tied person will default to what feels easier, familiar, or habitual—essentially entering a routine.
In this case, the person tying fails to manage the interaction or communicate anything meaningful through their action.
However, if you choose the wrapping direction based on your intended next move, execution becomes smoother. The tied person will "pre-load" the instruction and follow it, reducing their decision-making capacity. This subtle transfer of control builds up over the session, leading to significant impact.
2. Sliding
In the video, you’ll notice the rope being slid to adjust its placement.
Be cautious: this movement can help fine-tune posture or handling, but it may also become a major distraction.
Sliding the rope back and forth creates confusion.
If you need to correct or adjust while performing a Single Column, the most efficient method is to lift the rope entirely off the body, make the necessary adjustment, and then reapply it—avoiding unnecessary sliding.
3. Space Between Rope and Body
When tying a limb, it’s crucial to leave enough space to fit your hand and "lever" the rope.
The purpose of the tie isn’t to restrain or prevent escape but to fix the rope to the body, creating a structure.
This gives the person tying a control point and provides the tied person a point of support.
The larger the space, the sharper the triangle formed, which alters force distribution and can create an undesired pendulum effect.
Of course, this depends greatly on the body part being tied and the intended purpose of the tie.
4. Blocking Before Tying
The video clearly explains how to tie and direct the knot in specific directions.
Technically, it’s an excellent explanation.
However, in Yagami Ryu, we use Hon Musubime as a technique that extends beyond tying hands or legs—it’s key to fixing rope anywhere.
Here, an important step is missing: flipping the rope before tying the knot to add a block.
As one student described it, we transition from a "macaroni" (crossed spiral rope) to a "snail" (the spiral flipped onto itself) before securing the knot.
This step is shown in the corresponding class video.
If you have any doubts, feel free to reach out. We can resolve them via video call—it’ll be faster.
Interestingly, this step tends to come naturally to left-handed individuals, while right-handers often struggle more due to the natural left-handed twist of the rope.
This technique is used in many other figures and ties, making it essential to master.
5. Pinchi Pinchi – Taigo Taigo – Puru Puru
In the Ichinawa school, tightening the knot for added solidity is described as: "pinchi pinchi, puru puru, taigo taigo."
Translated from "Japenglish," this means: Pinch, Tighten, Pull.
The process involves:
- Pinching the knot, using the rope’s weave. Pinching in one direction tightens it; in the opposite direction, it loosens.
- Tightening the tie by pulling opposite ends of the rope (forming an "X") to let it settle further.
- Finally, pulling the ends two at a time to fully compress the knot.
This results in a compact, stable knot that won’t slip and remains easy to untie if done correctly.
6. The Knot
Any knot can work, as long as it meets these criteria:
Non-slipping:
Prevents strangulation or rope slippage, ensuring structural stability.Non-collapsing:
Retains its integrity under pressure without deforming.Quick and easy to tie/untie:
A knot must release with a single movement, regardless of how much pressure it endured.Compact:
- Aesthetic: While subjective, small, discreet knots are often preferred.
- Functional: A loose knot causes slippage; a bulky one can press uncomfortably against the body.
7. What Hon Musubi Brings to the Single Column
In addition to the block and rope handling discussed earlier, several distinguishing elements set Hon Musubi apart.
Directional Vector
With Hon Musubime, the goal is to manage the tied person and establish clear control over the session from the initial tie.
Just as the wrapping direction influences joint movement, the angle or vector of tension communicates intent to the body.
This process manages ground reaction forces and balance. Contradictory movements or angles can create confusion in this communication.
Contact Points
The rope’s contact area is crucial. Contact should focus on specific points, not evenly distributed around the body.
Accessories like bracelets or rings can interfere, creating conflicting signals to the muscles.
Constant Tension
Tension is key, providing a continuous signal from start to finish, maintaining presence and consistency throughout the session.
Final Thoughts: Hon Musubi as a Process
Hon Musubime isn’t a figure or a final tie—it’s a process.
Its purpose is to establish clear management of the tied person, effectively guiding the session.