Influencer Ravena Hanniely has opened up about how embracing BDSM has not only enhanced her sex life but also boosted her confidence and helped ease her anxiety.
The 23-year-old, who’s built a following of over 38,000 on Instagram through fitness tips, vegan challenges, and wellness cleanses, is now sharing more intimate aspects of her personal journey including how exploring kink changed the way she connects with others.
Ravena said she was first introduced to BDSM by an ex-partner who encouraged her to explore her dominant side.
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He always made me feel comfortable expressing my fetishes,” she told What’s The Jam. “Over time, I naturally took control of our positions and realised I had a strong instinct for domination. He discovered he liked being submissive, and I found a passion for BDSM.”
Now fully immersed in the lifestyle, Ravena also enjoys voyeurism, role-playing, and exhibitionism. While she’s currently single, she prefers engaging in BDSM only with partners who are already familiar with and enjoy kink.
I don’t really like initiating people into it,” she explained. “I’d rather share that space with someone who already understands the dynamic and customs involved.”
For Ravena, BDSM goes far beyond the physical. She finds immense satisfaction in commanding a scene and taking both psychological and physical control always consensually and with clear boundaries. “We always establish a safe word beforehand,” she said. “It’s about mutual trust and respect.”
She believes the benefits of BDSM reach deeper than the bedroom. “It’s an incredible way to build trust and closeness in a relationship,” she said.
Being in a position of power helped improve my self-esteem and gave me a greater sense of emotional security. It’s definitely helped with my anxiety.”
Ravena is also keen to break down misconceptions about the practice, stressing that BDSM is a legitimate and empowering form of emotional and sexual expression.
As long as there’s consent and mutual respect, it’s a healthy way of exploring connection and well-being,” she said.
In a recent Instagram post, she gave followers a bold glimpse into her world, posing confidently in black leather lingerie while holding a whip. The response was instant. “Looking so hot,” one fan wrote, while another declared: “This woman is a work of art.”
For Ravena, owning her sexuality and embracing kink has not only opened up new layers of pleasure but also helped her feel more in control, confident, and connected to herself.
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