Submission refers to a set of sexual rituals, behaviors, and customs where individuals willingly hand over control of their bodies to their partners. While submission mainly occurs during erotic episodes, some couples integrate this ritual during their daily life. The partner who takes the upper hand position is normally known as a Dom or Dominant. The inferior or willingly docile partner is referred to as the sub or submissive.
While physical contact is one of the main pillars of a D/s relationship, it is not always necessary. Some also indulge in behavioral modifications where the sub willingly modifies their lifestyle to meet the Dominate partner's needs and expectations. Sexual submission greatly varies in intensity. It is usually negotiated in the form of a contract. In many cases, a safe word is agreed upon to keep both parties safe.