Many submissive individuals enjoy being choked as the practice reinforces their partner’s dominance over them. They also enjoy the lightheaded feeling that comes from choking.
Experts agree that the best way to choke someone is to apply pressure directly to the carotid arteries on either side of the neck rather than the windpipe. These arteries carry blood rich in oxygen from the heart to the brain. When they are compressed the brain loses oxygen and accumulates carbon dioxide, which creates a giddy, euphoric feeling that heightens all the senses. These sensations will last from three to five seconds, after which the person being choked will pass out.
Given the very high risks, choking should never be done alone. A person who chokes their partner should also be familiar with CPR. Choking a partner until they pass out should never be attempted by anyone who is not already very experienced with choking. Communication before, during, and after choking is crucial. As the person being choked will not be able to communicate verbally while being choked, it’s smart to establish a safe action to use if the person is feeling uncomfortable.