Nudists

Nudists – What Or Who Are They?

Nudists

The image above is a representation of how nudists are perceived in today’s society. It also has the flip side… how nudists see themselves. We hope you like it :)

It’s our way of shedding some light on how we see ourselves through the eyes of mainstream america. Then see our very own interpretation of how we, young nudists and young naturists, see ourselves!

Nudists Defined

Nudists and naturists have no mainstream reason for being naked. Many agree that by going nude, they bring themselves closer to nature and personal enlightenment. Some believe that nudity develops stronger and more truthful relationships between people. They feel that a deeper or truer understanding of people can be attained by first stripping away outer signs of class, wealth, and style. They argue that mentalities like “clothes make the man” are harmful and judgmental, and by removing the means of preconceptions – clothing – can they see each other as people, and not their social ranks.

Most people prefer to live the majority of their lives fairly fully clothed. Some might even spend a good deal of their time focusing on shopping and putting together stylish outfits for this purpose. But there are also a good number of people who prefer to live just the opposite and embrace nudism. That is, nudism is a lifestyle that is shared by many communities across the world. For some, it offers an alternative or “more natural” way of living. As a side note, “naturism” is actually the more politically correct term preferred by most nudists today. Nudists, simply speaking, are those who advocate for and embrace a lifestyle that is completely free of clothing.

The history of nudism extends back for centuries. Arguably, many of the ancient peoples were significantly more welcoming of “public” nudity than most “modern” cultures are today. For example, public bathing was once the norm. Even the ancient men-only Olympic Games were once void of uniforms and clothing of any type (with the exception of olive leaf crowns). However, nudism, during modern times did not really grow in popularity until around the 1970s. At least in the United States.

People tend to join nudist clubs or choose to embrace a nudist lifestyle for different reasons. For some, nudism is meant to be a way of returning back to nature. It is a way of stripping away unnecessary items (in this case clothing) that are hindering themselves from being one with their natural environment. This is one of the most common reasons that people become nudists today. As an expansion of this concept, many people find that they are more at peace with themselves and others when they are completely naked. This perceived inner and social peace is a strong draw for people from the main stream who are seeking a less judgmental way of life.

Unfortunately, nudism is often associated with some forms of eroticism or sexuality. Because of the constant state of nakedness that all members of a nudist club are in there are those who perceive it as sexual. However, many nudists argue that the connection between nudism and eroticism is a significant misrepresentation of their personal values. In fact, there are significant numbers of modern nudist organizations and nudist clubs who contest that there need not be any connection between a lifestyle of nudism and any such sexual events.

The majority of people in main stream America do not embrace nudism as a “normal” way of life. This is why nudists often find that their lifestyle is, at times, looked down upon by others. This negative social stigma may be dealt with by nudists in a number of ways. Some may choose to carry out their social life entirely within their circle of like-minded friends. While other nudists might choose to befriend, date and subsequently marry, non-nudists.

The degree to which nudists allow their personal lifestyle choice to affect the rest of their lives varies. For example, a high percentage of nudists actually only practice nudism within their own homes or around their closest family members. This is typically referred to as “home nudism.” On the other hand, some nudists prefer to enjoy social nudist activities such as naked parties, visiting nudist resort or a nude beach. Nudist beaches are currently among the most frequented locations designated specifically for public and social nudism.

What Activities Do Nudists Enjoy?

If you are someone who is considering the nudist/naturist lifestyle or are curious about the idea, you might be wondering what you can do when you are nude! Because so many people only get naked for intimate activities, they need to stop and consider what they can do when they experience nudity in a completely new context. The truth of the matter is that there are many activities that nudists can enjoy! Some of which are even enhanced by the state of being nude!

Swimming Naked – Skinny-dipping

When people think about swimming with relation to nudity, it becomes obvious that this is one situation that is greatly improved by being naked. Nude swimming, which is also known as skinny-dipping, can be a wonderfully freeing experience. It allows the swimmer to feel the water over every part of their body. It also removes the drag and the discomfort of wearing a swimsuit. Since there is no need to readjust the swim clothes, Nude swimming also makes getting out of the water easier and less irritating.

Naked Yoga

Yoga is an activity that puts you in tune with your body. So why worry about clothes getting in the way? Depending on the type of yoga you choose, you will find that being naked can enhance the experience. For example, while nude, a very gentle yoga exercise can leave you feeling wonderfully relaxed, while hot yoga allows you to move freely without sweat soaking into your clothing. Yoga is all about free movement. When you practice naked yoga, you will find that you can really connect with the way that your body moves without the hampering presence of clothing.

Hiking Naked – “Free hiking”

Hiking may not be something that you associate with nudity, but rest assured, many nude hikers exist! When hiking nude, most nudist hikers do wear boots, though some brave people venture on the trails barefoot. It all depends on the area and what risks might be encountered. Hiking while nude allows you to feel the breeze and the sun on your body. Your body will regulate its own temperature and many people find that hiking naked is far superior to hiking while clothed.

Naked Biking

Many nudists enjoy biking in the nude. Some certainly wear garments that will increase their comfort on the bike seat while others do without. There are many nudist friendly areas that allow for biking naked along specific paths or roads. Biking is a great way to feel what your body is capable of. Biking nude, diminishes the drag from wind and your sweat will not cling to your body as it would while clothed.  Remember that helmet laws exist for a reason and that they should always be followed!

Canoeing Nude – Or “Canuding”

If you feel like getting in the water, consider canuding. Canuding allows you to get a great workout and if you get too hot, you can always cool off with a nude swim! No need to worry about sitting in a cold damp bathing-suite!

Communing with Nature – Nudist Camping

Social nudity, clothes-free, naturism, nudism and public nudity are all terms that refer to people that encourage, defend and practice public nudity. In Britain the term nudism refers to being naked, whereas, naturism refers to a philosophy of being natural. Although in many countries, including the United States, the terms are interchangeable. The philosophy of most nudists includes relating to nature, health and fitness. So being at one with your natural surrounding ranks high on most nudists activities of choice!

If you ever find yourself wondering what nudists do for fun, remember that the answer tends to be – “what everyone else does!”

Young Nudists And Naturists America YNA

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