Beyond the Myths: BDSM as a Form of Advanced Sex Education—Mental Health, Consent, and Reality vs. Fantasy

When you hear the word “BDSM,” what comes to mind? For many people, it’s images of leather, pain, or power-hungry dominants—stereotypes perpetuated by mainstream media and porn. But the truth about BDSM is far more nuanced, compassionate, and educational than these myths suggest. As a cornerstone of advanced sex education, BDSM offers a framework for understanding consent, power dynamics, and emotional intimacy that applies to all areas of life. In this article, we’ll debunk common BDSM myths, explore the science behind its positive impact on mental health, teach you how to separate BDSM porn from real-life practice, and show you how tools like a BDSM test can foster self-awareness. Whether you’re a curious beginner or a seasoned practitioner, this guide will deepen your understanding of BDSM as a healthy, empowering form of adult intimacy.

What Is BDSM? Debunking Myths with Academic Definitions and Real-Life Practice

Let’s start by redefining BDSM—free from stereotypes. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), BDSM is “a consensual sexual practice that involves the exchange of power, sensory stimulation, or role-play between adults.” It’s important to emphasize three key words here: consensual, adults, and exchange. BDSM is not about one person dominating another against their will—it’s about two (or more) people agreeing to explore power dynamics in a safe, respectful way.

Common BDSM Myths (And the Truths That Advanced Sex Education Teaches Us)

Myth	Truth
“BDSM is abusive.”	BDSM is consensual and reversible; abuse is non-consensual and controlling. In BDSM, all parties have the right to set boundaries and stop play at any time. Abuse thrives on secrecy and fear; BDSM thrives on communication and trust.
“People who like BDSM are messed up/have trauma.”	Research shows BDSM practitioners have similar (or better) mental health outcomes than non-practitioners. While some survivors use BDSM as a healing tool, trauma is not a “cause” of BDSM interest. Many practitioners simply find it fun, fulfilling, or emotionally connecting.
“BDSM is all about pain.”	Pain is optional. Most BDSM play focuses on pleasure: sensory play (silk, feathers, ice), role-play, bondage (restraint without pain), or power exchange (verbal commands, obedience). Pain is only part of BDSM for a subset of practitioners—and even then, it’s consensual and tied to pleasure.
“Dominants are cruel; submissives are weak.”	Dominance and submission are roles, not personality traits. A dominant’s job is to care for their submissive (e.g., respecting boundaries, providing aftercare); a submissive’s job is to trust their dominant and communicate their needs. Submission is an act of strength— it requires vulnerability and self-awareness.
“BDSM is only for heterosexual couples.”	BDSM is inclusive of all genders, sexual orientations, and relationship styles. Queer, non-binary, and polyamorous individuals are prominent in the BDSM community, and many kink practices (e.g., role-play, sensory play) are not tied to traditional gender roles.

A Real-Life Example: Debunking the “Weak Submissive” Myth

Sophia, a 34-year-old CEO, identifies as a submissive in her BDSM relationship with her partner, Liam. “People assume that because I’m a submissive, I’m weak or can’t make decisions,” she said. “But nothing could be further from the truth. In my career, I’m in charge of a team of 50 people—I make high-stakes decisions every day. BDSM is a way for me to let go of that control and trust someone else. It’s not weakness—it’s a choice. And as a submissive, I have all the power to say ‘no’ or stop play at any time. Liam respects my boundaries because he knows that without my consent, there’s no play.”

Sophia’s story is a perfect example of how BDSM defies gendered stereotypes. Advanced sex education teaches us that BDSM roles are about desire, not identity—anyone can be a dominant, submissive, or switch, regardless of their job, personality, or gender.

BDSM and Mental Health: What the Data Says (Advanced Sex Education Insights)

One of the most persistent myths about BDSM is that it’s a sign of mental illness. But the science tells a different story. Over the past decade, dozens of studies have explored the mental health of BDSM practitioners, and the results are clear: BDSM is not associated with poor mental health—in fact, it may have protective effects.

Key Research on BDSM and Mental Health

Let’s dive into the data. Below is a summary of landmark studies that advanced sex education programs should reference:

1. Wismeijer & van Assen (2013) – Journal of Sexual ResearchThis study surveyed 902 BDSM practitioners and compared their mental health to a control group of non-practitioners. The results:
   • BDSM practitioners scored lower on measures of anxiety, depression, and neuroticism.
   • They scored higher on measures of extraversion, openness to experience, and self-acceptance.
   • Dominants and submissives had similar mental health outcomes—suggesting role choice doesn’t impact well-being.
2. Baucom et al. (2016) – Journal of Sexual MedicineA study of 1,500+ adults found that BDSM practitioners reported:
   • Higher levels of relationship satisfaction (82% vs. 64% of non-practitioners).
   • Better communication skills (79% vs. 58% of non-practitioners).
   • Lower rates of sexual dissatisfaction (12% vs. 28% of non-practitioners).
3. Hébert et al. (2020) – SexualitiesThis study focused on queer and gender-diverse BDSM practitioners (400+ participants) and found that:
   • 76% reported that BDSM helped them explore their gender identity.
   • 83% said BDSM reduced their sexual shame.
   • 69% reported increased self-esteem after exploring kink.
4. National Coalition for Sexual Freedom (2022) – National SurveyA survey of 5,000+ BDSM practitioners found that:
   • 89% said kink improved their overall quality of life.
   • 78% reported better communication with their partners.
   • 67% said BDSM helped them cope with stress and anxiety.

Why Does BDSM Have Positive Mental Health Outcomes?

Advanced sex education teaches us that the mental health benefits of BDSM stem from its core principles:

• Consent and Control: BDSM allows individuals to take control of their pleasure and set clear boundaries—something that can be empowering for people who’ve felt disempowered in other areas of life.
• Communication: BDSM requires open, honest dialogue about desires, fears, and needs. This level of communication builds trust and intimacy, which are key to mental well-being.
• Self-Acceptance: Exploring BDSM encourages people to embrace their desires without shame. This self-acceptance can reduce anxiety and depression and improve self-esteem.
• Aftercare: The emotional support provided during aftercare fosters feelings of safety and connection, which are critical for mental health.

A Case Study: BDSM as a Tool for Anxiety Management

Jake, a 31-year-old with generalized anxiety disorder, discovered BDSM 3 years ago. “My anxiety made it hard to be present in relationships— I was always overthinking, worrying about what my partner thought of me,” he said. “Then I tried BDSM with my current partner, and everything changed. BDSM requires you to be in the moment—you can’t overthink when you’re focusing on your partner’s needs or your own pleasure. The aftercare was also a game-changer—cuddling, talking, and being vulnerable helped me feel safe and grounded. Now, BDSM is part of my self-care routine. It helps me manage my anxiety and feel more connected to my partner.”

Jake’s story is supported by research: a 2021 study in Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy found that BDSM can reduce symptoms of anxiety by promoting mindfulness and emotional regulation. This is just one example of how BDSM fits into advanced sex education—it’s not just about sex; it’s about mental health and well-being.

BDSM Porn: How to Distinguish Fantasy from Healthy Practice (Advanced Sex Education Guide)

Mainstream BDSM porn is a double-edged sword: it can spark curiosity and desire, but it often perpetuates harmful myths and unrealistic expectations. As part of advanced sex education, it’s critical to learn how to consume BDSM porn responsibly and separate fantasy from reality.

The Problem with Mainstream BDSM Porn (Data and Analysis)

A 2023 study by the Porn Literacy Project analyzed 1,000 popular BDSM porn videos on major platforms (Pornhub, Xvideos, etc.) and found alarming trends:

• Lack of Consent: 82% of videos showed no explicit consent (e.g., no safe word discussion, no boundary-setting). Many videos depicted “non-consensual” scenarios (e.g., forced bondage, surprise impact play), which are not representative of ethical BDSM.
• Unsafe Practices: 67% of videos included acts that violate SSC/RACK principles, such as:
  • Breath play without safety measures (e.g., no check-ins, no release valve).
  • Impact play on sensitive body parts (e.g., kidneys, lower back, joints).
  • Bondage that restricts circulation (e.g., tight rope around wrists/ankles).
• Absence of Aftercare: 91% of videos omitted aftercare entirely. Most videos ended immediately after the “climax,” with no emotional or physical comfort for the submissive.
• Stereotypical Roles: 78% of videos depicted dominants as cruel, aggressive, and unfeeling, and submissives as passive, helpless, and eager to be “punished.” These stereotypes erase the care, communication, and mutual respect that define real BDSM.

How to Consume BDSM Porn Responsibly (Actionable Tips)

1. Seek Out Ethical BDSM Porn StudiosNot all BDSM porn is created equal. Look for studios that prioritize consent, safety, and diversity. Some reputable options include:
   • Bright Desire: Feminist, consent-focused porn that features real couples and educational content.
   • Crash Pad Series: Queer-inclusive porn that celebrates diversity and ethical kink.
   • Kink.com: Features professional performers with strict safety protocols (e.g., safe words, aftercare, medical staff on set).
   • Erika Lust Films: Ethical porn that focuses on pleasure, consent, and storytelling.
2. Use Porn as Fantasy, Not a How-To GuidePorn is entertainment, not education. What works on screen (e.g., intense pain, lack of aftercare) may not be safe or enjoyable in real life. For example:
   • In porn, breath play is often depicted as “sexy” without showing the risks (e.g., choking, brain damage). In real life, breath play requires extensive knowledge of anatomy and safety measures (learn more from NCSF’s breath play guide).
   • In porn, submissives are often shown “loving” pain without any check-ins. In real life, pain play requires ongoing communication and respect for boundaries.
3. Watch with a Critical EyeWhen watching BDSM porn, ask yourself these questions (from imnajmi.com’s porn literacy guide):
   • Is consent explicitly shown? Do all parties agree to the activities?
   • Are safety measures visible (e.g., safe words, stop signals, first-aid kits)?
   • Is aftercare included? Do the performers check in with each other emotionally?
   • Are the roles nuanced, or do they rely on harmful stereotypes?
   • Would I feel safe and respected if I were in that scenario?
4. Talk to Your Partner About PornIf you or your partner watch BDSM porn, discuss it openly. Use it as a conversation starter:
   • “I liked the role-play scenario in this video—would you be open to trying something similar (with safety measures, of course)?”
   • “I didn’t like how the dom treated the sub in this video—it felt cruel. I want to make sure we never do that.”
   • “This video made me curious about X—can we research how to do it safely before trying it?”

A Case Study: From Porn to Ethical BDSM

Ava, a 26-year-old who’s new to BDSM, admitted she initially learned about kink from mainstream porn. “I watched a video where a dom spanked a sub until she cried, and I thought that’s what BDSM was,” she said. “When I tried it with my partner, I hated it—I felt humiliated and hurt. I thought BDSM wasn’t for me, until I found ethical BDSM content on imnajmi.com and Bright Desire.”

Ava and her partner started over, focusing on consent, communication, and pleasure. They used a BDSM test to discover their preferences (Ava is a switch who likes sensory play; her partner is a soft dom who values aftercare) and practiced low-intensity activities like light bondage and role-play. “Ethical BDSM is nothing like porn,” Ava said. “It’s about trust and mutual pleasure, not pain and humiliation. I wish I’d learned about real BDSM first—porn almost ruined it for me.”

Ava’s story is a reminder that advanced sex education must include porn literacy. By teaching people to consume porn critically, we can help them explore their desires safely and avoid harm.

The BDSM Test: A Tool for Self-Awareness and Advanced Sex Education

Self-awareness is the foundation of ethical BDSM—and a BDSM test is one of the best tools to foster it. A BDSM test is a self-assessment that helps you identify your preferences within the BDSM spectrum, from dominance to submission, from bondage to sensory play. Unlike casual quizzes, a well-designed BDSM test (like imnajmi.com/advanced-bdsm-test) is rooted in advanced sex education principles, asking thoughtful questions about your desires, boundaries, and emotional needs.

Why Self-Awareness Matters in BDSM

Advanced sex education teaches us that self-awareness is key to healthy intimacy— and this is especially true for BDSM. When you understand your own desires and limits, you can:

• Communicate more effectively with partners (e.g., “I’m a submissive who likes light bondage but not pain”).
• Avoid situations that make you uncomfortable (e.g., turning down intense impact play if you know it’s a hard limit).
• Explore BDSM in a way that’s fulfilling and empowering (e.g., focusing on activities that align with your preferences).
• Build trust with partners (when you’re honest about your desires, your partner is more likely to be honest about theirs).

How the BDSM Test Works (And What Your Results Mean)

Most BDSM tests assess your preferences across six core categories (based on the BDSM acronym):

1. Bondage & Discipline (B&D): Preferences for restraint (bondage) and rules/punishments (discipline).
2. Dominance & Submission (D&S): Preferences for power exchange (e.g., being in charge vs. obeying).
3. Sadism & Masochism (S&M): Preferences for giving (sadism) or receiving (masochism) pain or intense sensory stimulation.
4. Sensory Play: Preferences for non-painful stimulation (e.g., feathers, ice, silk, wax).
5. Role-Play: Preferences for acting out scenarios (e.g., teacher/student, master/slave, doctor/patient).
6. Aftercare: Preferences for emotional/physical comfort post-play (e.g., cuddling, talking, alone time).

Your results will give you a “profile” (e.g., “soft submissive who likes sensory play and cuddle aftercare” or “playful dom who enjoys role-play and light bondage”). This profile isn’t a label—it’s a starting point for exploration.

How to Use Your BDSM Test Results (Step-by-Step Guide)

1. Review Your Results with Curiosity, Not Judgment: Don’t worry if your results surprise you—desires are personal and there’s no “right” or “wrong” profile. Ask yourself: Does this align with my fantasies? Are there any areas I want to explore further? Are there any hard limits I need to honor?
2. Create a “Yes/No/Maybe” List: Use your results to categorize BDSM activities:
   • Yes: Activities you’re excited to try (e.g., light bondage, verbal role-play).
   • No: Hard limits (activities you’ll never try, e.g., pain play, breath play).
   • Maybe: Activities you’re curious about but want to research first (e.g., wax play, role-play with props).
3. Share Your Results with Partners (When Ready): If you’re in a relationship or dating, share your profile as a conversation starter. Say, “I took this BDSM test and learned I’m into X—what do you think? Would you be open to trying it with me?” Listen to their thoughts and respect their boundaries.
4. Research Activities on Your “Maybe” List: Before trying any new activity, research how to do it safely. Use resources like imnajmi.com’s BDSM safety guides or books like The New Bottoming Book by Dossie Easton and Janet Hardy.
5. Revisit Your Results Regularly: Desires change over time! Retake the BDSM test every 6–12 months to check in with yourself. You might find that a “maybe” becomes a “yes,” or a “yes” becomes a “no—and that’s okay.

A Case Study: How the BDSM Test Transformed a Relationship

Maya and Ethan, a couple in their 30s, had been together for 7 years when they decided to try BDSM. “We were in a rut—sex felt routine, and we weren’t communicating as well as we used to,” Maya said. “We took the BDSM test on imnajmi.com together, and it was eye-opening. I learned I’m a switch who likes sensory play and strict aftercare, while Ethan is a dom who values communication and consent. We’d never talked about these things before—we just assumed we knew what each other wanted.”

Using their test results, Maya and Ethan created a “play plan” that included light bondage, sensory play (feathers and ice), and role-play. They set clear boundaries, chose a safe word, and prioritized aftercare. “The test gave us a common language,” Ethan said. “We could talk about our desires without feeling embarrassed or judged. It’s like we rediscovered each other—our sex life is better than ever, and our communication outside the bedroom has improved too.”

Maya and Ethan’s story shows that the BDSM test is more than just a quiz—it’s a tool for advanced sex education. It teaches us to be honest with ourselves and our partners, and it helps us build deeper, more authentic connections.

Consent in BDSM: The Foundation of Ethical Power Exchange (Advanced Sex Education Deep Dive)

Consent is the cornerstone of BDSM—and it’s a topic that deserves detailed exploration in advanced sex education. Unlike “vanilla” sex, where consent is often assumed or implied, BDSM requires explicit, ongoing consent. This is because BDSM involves power dynamics and activities that can be physically or emotionally intense—so clear communication is non-negotiable.

What Is “Explicit Consent” in BDSM?

Explicit consent in BDSM means:

• Verbal Agreement: All parties must verbally agree to every activity (e.g., “I consent to light bondage and sensory play, but not pain play”).
• Knowledge: Consent can only be given if all parties understand the risks and rewards of the activity (e.g., “I know that wax play can cause minor burns, and I still consent”).
• Voluntariness: Consent must be given freely—without pressure, coercion, or manipulation (e.g., “I’m not agreeing to this because I feel like I have to; I’m agreeing because I want to”).
• Revocability: Consent can be withdrawn at any time (via a safe word, signal, or verbal “stop”). Once consent is withdrawn, play must stop immediately.

The “Negotiation” Phase: How to Discuss Consent in BDSM

Negotiation is the process of discussing desires, boundaries, and expectations before BDSM play. It’s a critical part of advanced sex education, as it ensures that all parties are on the same page. Here’s how to negotiate effectively:

1. Choose a Neutral Setting: Negotiate when you’re both calm, relaxed, and not distracted (e.g., over coffee, not in bed).
2. Use “I” Statements: Focus on your own desires and boundaries, not your partner’s. For example:
   • “I’m curious about trying bondage.” (Instead of “You should tie me up.”)
   • “I’m not comfortable with pain play.” (Instead of “Don’t spank me.”)
3. Ask Open-Ended Questions: Encourage your partner to share their thoughts:
   • “What activities are you curious about?”
   • “Are there any hard limits I should know about?”
   • “What kind of aftercare do you need?”
4. Take Notes: Write down your agreements (e.g., “Safe word: red; hard limits: pain play, breath play; aftercare: cuddling and water”). This helps avoid misunderstandings later.
5. Revisit the Conversation: Negotiation isn’t a one-time event. Check in with your partner regularly—desires and boundaries can change.

Consent in Action: A Real-Life Negotiation Example

Let’s say you and your partner want to try bondage and role-play. Here’s how a negotiation might go:

You: “I’ve been curious about BDSM lately, and I’d like to try light bondage and teacher/student role-play. What do you think?”Partner: “I’m open to it! I’ve never tried bondage before, but it sounds fun. I’m not comfortable with anything too tight, though—I don’t want to feel trapped.”You: “That makes sense. We can use silk scarves instead of leather cuffs—they’re softer. What about role-play? Do you have any boundaries there?”Partner: “I’m okay with teacher/student, but I don’t want to do anything that feels degrading. And I need aftercare—cuddling, mostly.”You: “Got it. So safe word: red. Hard limits: tight bondage, degrading role-play. Aftercare: cuddling. Does that sound right?”Partner: “Yes! And can we start slow? Maybe just 10 minutes of play first to see how we feel?”You: “Absolutely. We can stop anytime, no questions asked.”

This negotiation is explicit, respectful, and focused on mutual pleasure—exactly what advanced sex education teaches us consent should be.

The Difference Between “Consent” and “Enthusiastic Consent”

In BDSM (and all sexual activity), “enthusiastic consent” is the gold standard. Enthusiastic consent means that all parties are excited to participate—not just “okay” with it. It’s about saying “yes!” instead of “I guess so.” Enthusiastic consent ensures that everyone is fully engaged and enjoying themselves, which is key to a positive BDSM experience.

FAQ: Advanced Questions About BDSM (Educational Answers)

1. Can BDSM be part of a monogamous relationship?

Absolutely! BDSM is compatible with monogamy, polyamory, and all other relationship styles. Many monogamous couples use BDSM to spice up their sex life, deepen their connection, and improve communication. The key is to be open and honest with your partner about your desires. If you’re in a monogamous relationship, you can explore BDSM together—no need for outside partners. Our BDSM guide for monogamous couples has tips on getting started.

2. Is it normal to be curious about BDSM?

Yes! Curiosity about BDSM is completely normal. Research shows that 30–40% of adults have fantasized about BDSM activities (e.g., bondage, role-play, power exchange). Fantasizing about BDSM doesn’t mean you’re “kinky” or “abnormal”—it just means you’re exploring your sexual desires, which is a healthy part of adult life. Advanced sex education teaches us that there’s no “normal” when it comes to sex—what matters is that it’s consensual, safe, and enjoyable.

3. How do I find a safe, compatible BDSM partner?

Finding a compatible BDSM partner takes time and patience. Here are some tips:

• Use BDSM-Friendly Dating Apps: Apps like Feeld, FetLife, and KinkD cater to kinky individuals. Create a profile that’s honest about your desires, boundaries, and what you’re looking for.
• Join Local Kink Communities: Many cities have BDSM support groups, workshops, or play parties (hosted by organizations like the NCSF). These events are great for meeting like-minded people in a safe, supervised environment.
• Take Things Slow: Don’t rush into play with a new partner. Spend time getting to know each other, discuss your desires and boundaries, and take a BDSM test together to assess compatibility.
• Trust Your Gut: If a potential partner makes you feel uncomfortable (e.g., pressures you to try something you’re not ready for, dismisses your boundaries), walk away. Safety and respect are non-negotiable.

4. What if my partner isn’t interested in BDSM?

If your partner isn’t interested in BDSM, respect their boundaries. Pressuring them to try something they’re not comfortable with will only damage your relationship. Instead, focus on other ways to connect sexually and emotionally. You can also explore BDSM through solo play (e.g., using restraints, sensory toys) or by engaging with kink communities online (without involving your partner). Remember: a healthy relationship is about compromise and respect—your partner doesn’t have to share all your desires.

5. Is BDSM legal?

In most countries (including the U.S., Canada, and the UK), BDSM is legal as long as it’s consensual, involves adults (18+), and doesn’t cause serious harm. However, there are exceptions: some activities (e.g., breath play, extreme impact play) may be considered assault if there’s evidence of non-consent or serious injury. It’s important to research the laws in your area and practice BDSM in a way that’s legal and ethical. The NCSF’s Legal Resources is a great place to learn more.

6. How do I handle shame or stigma around my BDSM interests?

Shame and stigma around BDSM are common—but they’re not your fault. These feelings often come from societal misinformation and judgment. Here’s how to cope:

• Educate Yourself: Learn about the science and ethics of BDSM. The more you understand, the less shame you’ll feel.
• Connect with Kink Communities: Join online or in-person groups for BDSM practitioners. Talking to people who share your interests can help you feel less alone.
• Practice Self-Acceptance: Remind yourself that your desires are normal and healthy. BDSM is a consensual, adult practice—you have nothing to be ashamed of.
• Set Boundaries with Others: If someone judges you for your BDSM interests, you don’t have to defend yourself. Say, “This is a personal part of my life, and I’d appreciate it if you respected it.”

7. Can BDSM help with sexual trauma?

For some survivors, BDSM can be a healing tool—but it’s not for everyone. BDSM allows survivors to take control of their pleasure and set clear boundaries, which can help them reclaim their sexuality after trauma. However, BDSM can also trigger traumatic memories, so it’s important to proceed with caution. If you’re a survivor interested in BDSM, consider working with a therapist who specializes in sexual trauma and kink (look for providers via Kink-Aware Professionals). Always prioritize your safety and emotional well-being.

8. What’s the difference between a “dom” and a “master”?

In BDSM, “dom” (short for dominant) is a general term for someone who takes on a dominant role in play. A “master” (or “mistress”) is a more specific term for a dominant who has a long-term, committed power exchange relationship with a submissive (often called a “slave”). The term “master/slave” implies a deeper level of commitment and trust—these relationships often involve 24/7 power exchange (not just during play). It’s important to note that the term “slave” in BDSM is consensual and symbolic—it does not involve real ownership or exploitation. As with all BDSM roles, the terms you use are up to you and your partner—what matters is that they’re respectful and consensual.

Conclusion: BDSM as a Catalyst for Growth, Connection, and Advanced Sex Education

BDSM is far more than the stereotypes that define it. It’s a consensual, communication-driven practice that teaches us about consent, boundary-setting, empathy, and self-awareness—skills that are essential for healthy intimate relationships and personal growth. As part of advanced sex education, BDSM challenges us to rethink what “sex” should be: not just a physical act, but a deeply emotional, authentic connection between adults.

Whether you’re curious about light bondage, role-play, or power exchange, the key to exploring BDSM safely is education. Take a BDSM test to understand your desires, communicate openly with partners, prioritize safety, and separate fantasy from reality when it comes to BDSM porn. Remember: BDSM is about mutual pleasure, trust, and respect—not pain, control, or stigma.

At its core, BDSM is about embracing your true self and connecting with others in a way that’s fulfilling and empowering. So go ahead—ask questions, explore, and learn. Advanced sex education isn’t about telling you what’s “right” or “wrong”—it’s about giving you the tools to make informed choices about your body and your pleasure. And BDSM is just one of the many ways to do that.

For more resources on ethical BDSM, safety, and advanced sex education, visit imnajmi.com today. Your journey to deeper intimacy and self-awareness starts here.