Many couples are into the oft-maligned “vanilla” sensuality, referring to sensual activity that is fairly straight up and devoid of any off-kilter or atypical aspects. But many sensual advisors and specialists think that this is due not to a disinterest in the more off-kilter aspects of sensuality so much as a reluctance to admit to having an interest. Men who are interested in some form of alternative sensual activity (and who are prepared to practice good, protective male organ care while pursuing it) may find the following sensual tips useful in exploring this option.

Be brave.

People build up personas that define themselves. There’s nothing wrong with that, but sometimes people get defined in a way that doesn’t truly reflect all sides of them. This can be especially true when someone has a desire to move beyond “typical” sensual activities. It can take courage to just broach the subject of this desire, even with a partner with whom one has shared much already. But if delving into this area is important to a man, his first step is to find the courage to take the first step of talking about it.

Don’t spring it.

If this desire is going to come as a surprise to a partner of long standing, it’s best not to just blurt it out. Finding a way to ease into the conversation is preferred. Some like a “joking” way: When passing a sensual supply shop, perhaps a man might say, “Hey, do we have time to pick up a whip and a few manhood rings?” in a joking manner. But later on that night, he can refer to that: “You know when I made that joke about the sensual toys?” and follow up with, “Well, I was wondering if maybe there are some new things we might want to try out some time.”

Talk first.

Once the subject has been broached, if the partner is receptive, it’s a good idea to talk things through first. Talk about the things that are of interest to both parties. It’s good to set up a non-judgmental and honest framework: Both parties should talk about what interests them and how they feel about what interests the other person. Any resistance to participation should be discussed and respected. A partner should also be open about how far he or she is willing to go. And both parties should realize that they are free to change their minds – either before, during or after an exploration.

Start slowly.

Most couples find it helps to start slowly. Rather than starting off with props, for example, perhaps a little role-playing with, say, an imaginary set of handcuffs or a faux-leather bra is desirable. Some light rubbing of the posterior might be a good lead-in to actual spanking later.

Pick words.

Safe words are a good idea if the alternative sensual activity gets a little too intense. Participants can choose a word that, if they utter it, means things have moved beyond their comfort level and they should stop now.

Know how things work.

Before employing props in one’s sensual play, make sure both partners know how they work. For example, a cage for the manhood may be fun during some role-playing, but will be less fun if neither partner knows how to remove it.

No list of sensual tips is complete without a reminder to have fun – and for men to make sure their bout of off-kilter sensual activities doesn’t affect their male organ health. Since soreness may result from rough play, having on hand a quality male organ health crème (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) is a must. A crème with a good combination of moisturizers (Shea butter and vitamin E, for example) and antioxidants (such as alpha lipoic acid) can do wonders for alleviating transient member soreness. Also important: a crème with vitamin C, which is an aid in collagen production and male organ tissue firmness. After all, one needs to refresh and revitalize one’s manhood to be ready for whatever new games may be coming one’s way.

Visit http://www.menshealthfirst.com for additional information on most common member health issues, tips on improving male organ sensitivity and what to do to maintain a healthy manhood. John Dugan is a professional writer who specializes in men's health issues and is an ongoing contributing writer to numerous websites.