Aftercare - while fundamental in BDSM - seems to be talked about less often in tickle circles. Let's change that! Here are some aftercare practices I like:

• 🚰 Have some water ready! Tickling is an exhausting activity and all partners involved should regularly hydrate.
• 👐 Give the Lee a massage on the previously targeted spots! No surprise tickling, just helping to soothe the sensitive skin.
• ✋ Give the Ler a massage too, for example a hand massage! These things go both ways.
• ☁️ Lie down or sit up and focus on breathing for a while. The other partner can carefully place a hand on the upperbody to add some element of trust, warmth and comfort.
• 🤗 Cuddling and taking a nap! With the rush of endorphins, sometimes you just fall asleep for a short while, that's okay :)
• 🧘 Having some alone time! You may wish to have a moment for yourself to calm down and process what just happened. Don't let your partner just leave, give each other some space and get together afterwards - don't abandon them with their emotions.
• 🚿 Have a warm shower! Be it alone or together, it feels good to refresh after some steamy tickle action. Speaking of "steamy action", it's recommended to use a toilet afterwards to reduce the risk infections.
• 🥗 Have snacks or dinner together! Speaking from experience, after an hour long session, my hunger for tickles is replaced by ... hunger.
• 🎶 Turn on some music you like! Or watch some Netflix, anything comforting. Combines well with the previous suggestions!
• 👂 Affirm each other and tell them what you liked! This can happen immediately after or later; in any case reassure your partner that you're fine (if you're fine!) and you had a good time. Also, let your partner know in a respectful way if something felt off or uncomfortable.
• ❤️ Check in with each other the next day(s)! Sometimes the emotions hit you like a truck the next day, make sure you don't feel left alone with your feelings. Again, this goes both ways!

You should discuss aftercare before the session and make (food) preparations if needed. Some of these suggestions obviously require a closer relationship between play partners, pick whatever feels right for you. This list is not exhaustive, feel free to comment your favorite practices below!

Remember: Aftercare is not optional! Not in a private setting, not in a public setting, not in a professional setting. Never.