What Is “Sub Drop” in BDSM? How To Get Rid Of Sub Drop?
In BDSM, “sub drop” refers to the emotional or physical low that a submissive may experience after a scene or intense play session. It’s akin to the body coming down from an adrenaline or endorphin high. During play, heightened emotions, sensations, and hormones like adrenaline, dopamine, and endorphins flood the body. Once the play ends, these levels can drop sharply, leading to feelings of sadness, exhaustion, anxiety, or even depression. Physically, it might manifest as tiredness, headaches, or general discomfort.
Common Causes of Sub Drop:
- Emotional Intensity: Intense emotions and vulnerability during a scene can leave a submissive feeling raw or empty afterward.
- Physical Exhaustion: Physically demanding play can leave the body worn out.
- Hormonal Changes: The rapid drop in the chemicals responsible for pleasure and excitement can lead to a crash.
Symptoms of Sub Drop:
- Feelings of sadness, anxiety, or emptiness
- Physical fatigue or soreness
- Difficulty sleeping or restlessness
- Emotional vulnerability or irritability
How to Get Rid of Sub Drop (or Minimize Its Effects):
- Aftercare: Proper aftercare is essential to help a submissive recover emotionally and physically after a scene. This can include:
- Physical Comfort: Providing blankets, cuddles, water, or a warm bath to soothe the body.
- Reassurance and Affirmation: Verbal comfort, kind words, and positive reinforcement can help a submissive process the scene and feel secure.
- Physical Care: Attending to any marks, bruises, or soreness from the scene with soothing balms or massage.
- Communication: After a scene, both Dominant and submissive should check in with each other emotionally. Open communication helps the submissive feel supported, understood, and connected.
- Hydration and Nutrition: Eating a nutritious snack and drinking water can help regulate blood sugar levels and replenish the body after physical exertion.
- Rest and Relaxation: Encourage rest, as the submissive’s body may need time to recover from the physical intensity of the scene. Allowing time to decompress is important.
- Grounding Activities: Engaging in grounding activities like watching a favorite movie, journaling, or practicing mindfulness can help a submissive reconnect with themselves.
- Positive Reflection: Reflect on the scene in a positive light. This can involve talking through what happened, what was enjoyable, and what could be improved, turning the experience into a learning moment.
Long-Term Support:
If sub drop persists for days, it’s important to keep checking in, providing ongoing emotional support, and encouraging healthy self-care routines. Everyone experiences sub drop differently, so tailoring the aftercare and post-scene support to the individual’s needs is crucial for minimizing its effects.
