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Hello New Orleans, and welcome back to another Leather Tribe column. This month, I thought we would explore the realm of electrical play. So sit back plug yourself in, and enjoy.
Webster's Dictionary definition of electricity is: "A form of energy generated by friction, induction,or chemical change, and having magnetic, chemical and radiant effects: it is the basic particles of all matter, consisting of protons (positive charges) and electrons (negative charges), which attract each other." Not a great definition when trying to apply it in use on a set of cock and balls or on the tits, is it? Well, let's look at what we do know in simple terms. Electricity isn't solid, liquid or gas. It has no physical form, no shape and no color. By all regards it is a fairly new discovery to mankind and modern civilization, tamed and understood by minimalist standards. A powerful force that we are almost completely dependent upon, and fear at the same time.
At the turn of the century, there were breeds of salesmen and fast talking entrepreneurs who jumped on board the "electrical wagon" and devices popped up everywhere that claimed to cure everything from asthma to gonorrhea. If there was an ailment, there was an electrical device to fix or correct it. There was a fascination, almost an obsession, with electricity. Today the mystery is no longer there. It has become a necessity, yet something we should all fear because of its potentially deadly effect. It isn't something to play with. Electricity kills. This is both true and false. There are many things that can be fatal if the degree, and the control in which it is done, isn't used properly.
Electricity can be both pleasurable and painful. Most devices have a control setting so that a balance between the two can be discovered. Electrical torture is still in use by almost every country covered by Amnesty International. It is cheap, readily available, easy to use, extremely effective in retrieving information, and, if used correctly, leaves no trace on the victim. In an S/m scene, it's probably one of the only devices that you can hook up, turn on, sit back, smoke a cigarette, or go grab a bite to eat. It does all the work.
Now, let's talk safety. When it comes to electrical play there are some pretty important rules of thumb to follow. The main danger from an external electrical source is interference with the body's own electrical signals. All electro-stimulation devices need two contacts with the body. The current will follow on the path of least electrical resistance between these two contacts. The body's nervous system functions because of small internally generated electrical signals. The heart's own pacemaker is a prime example. So the main rule of thumb is never connect two electrodes so the path between them passes through the chest cavity. Simply put, NEVER ABOVE THE WAIST. There is an exception to this rule which I'll get to later. Now secondly, when playing with electricity where muscle control is involved, keep in mind that muscles are controlled by our body's electrical impulses from the nerves and that, especially if the bottom is tied down or immobile, the more violent and stronger the contractions of the muscles, the more likely muscles and tendons will tear and, if really extreme, may cause some broken bones. The last rule, but definitely not least, is don't try do-it-yourself devices unless you are quite experienced in not only electrical wiring but also in electrical play.
There are three types of power supplies. (1) the "hand cranked" type of generators which produce their own current and have an extreme feeling nothing short of seeing white when applied to sensitive areas like the scrotum - these types of devices are more of a torture device than for pleasure but a true pain pig will enjoy it I assure you. (2) the batteries as our second source; and, (3) the most dangerous kind - a AC/DC wall outlet. When it comes to this type of source, caution must be used, and anything plugged into a wall line must be stepped down through a transformer first before it is applied to the body.
One such device that uses a line current is my favorite of all toys (next to my single tail) and that is the Violet Wand. It consists of a control unit which plugs into the wall into which various electrodes may be fitted and used. Most of these electrodes are glass bulbs that glow with a violet light; hence, the name "Violet Wand."
These devices got their start in the 20's and 30's as a "cure all." Although there are no medical claims associated with these devices ,they are still manufactured today. They are marketed by beauty suppliers and barbers for scalp treatments and for facials at some very high class salons. These range from the Violet Wand to low grade galvanic machines and ionic pulse stimulators for involuntary muscle gymnastics. How's that for a day of beauty with a little s/m pleasure in the mix? If only I knew what other uses that equipment had, I probably would have enjoyed being a facialist a lot more. The Wand's electrodes give off a spark very similar to that of static electricity. It travels over the surface of the skin which is why it is one device that can be used above the waist. The ultraviolet radiation which these electrodes produce, if used extensively on one area, can produce a reddening of the skin very similar to a sunburn. The metal ones may even cause something similar to a branding of sorts. The Viloet Wand comes with the basic three glass electrodes in most kink shops. They range from $200 and up depending on where you purchase them. My suggestion is to search the Web. You will find your best buys there. There are also attachments such as a body contact which enables the top to conduct the current through his/her body such as the fingertips. This can be intense for the top as well as the bottom. It can be an incredible power trip for both. The Wand is also probably the best electrical toy for the novice to start out on in his/her adventure into electrical play. Try it out you just might like it.
I hope you have enjoyed this month's article. I would also like to congratulate Chuck Lance who, during Decadence walked away with title Mr. Louisiana Leather 2000, and will be competing in International Mister Leather in May. Congrats, Chuck, we are very proud to have you as our representative this year. Good luck and have a great year. Till next time, Leatherites, do it safe, do it sane, and definitely do it in more Leather.
