#101: Rope School! What We Learned from a Level 1 Shibari Intensive – with Slade
Episode description
This week I’m joined once again by my partner, rigger, and Dom — Slade — as we unpack our recent experience completing Kazami-Ryu Level 1, a three-day Shibari intensive right here in Townsville.
Together we share what it was really like to dive into formal rope training — the challenges, the breakthroughs, and the lessons learned from both sides of the rope.
We explore:
- Slade's lessons in persistence as an aspiring rigger
- Harley's insights on how mindset can have a major effect on pain tolerance
- The difference between playful rope and “lab-mode” learning
- How rope journaling can be a creative way to integrate learning
- When to upgrade your rope
- Navigating comparison and confidence in group learning
- The importance of having fun and being a supportive partner
This one feels like you’re sitting down with us for a casual chat about rope over a few drinks. Neither of us are experts — but sometimes that makes the experience even more relatable for those who are also new to this world.
From bleeding fingers and proud time-trials to unexpected moments of calm and connection, this episode is both an inside look at structured rope education and a love letter to the art of learning together.
Special thanks to Basanos and Angel for bringing their amazing skills and tuition to our little town!
xx Harley 🐰
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