Blindfolds

Absolutely, it's a known fact that being unable to see heightens the other senses. Blindfolds are great for newbies and seasoned pros alike.
Just keep the bondage and pain aspect fairly light the first several times that your partner is wearing the blindfold if you think he/she might start to panic or feel uncomfortable with the overall situation.

As KyotoAngel said, they can be a good introduction, but keep in mind, some people don't do well blindfolded. It's always a good idea to ask ahead of time. For instance, I can handle a lot of pain, but put a blindfold on me and the chances that I'll panic and flip out increase tenfold. Some people simply do better when not blindfolded and/or don't like them.

Blindfolds or even light bondage is a perfect introduction.

a good introduction to allowing loss of control..