reminders of why we love naturism…

Staring out the window at the disappointing summer weather – frankly, it feels more like late autumn! – I find it difficult to feel enthusiastic about taking my clothes off and venturing outside. For those of us who live in cold countries, naturism can seem a bit daunting. For example, while I’m looking forward to the Marbury Great British Skinny Dip this coming Sunday (22 August), part of me is fervently hoping that I won’t be doing it in rain and cold wind.

At times like these, it’s good to remember why we strip down and hike, swim, view gardens, visit naturism clubs and campsites, take part in naked bike rides, and so on; that is, to remind ourselves why we choose naturism.

Each of us has our own reasons, of course. We might enjoy the feeling of swimming without costumes, immersed in silky river or lake water or in the cold, salty sea. Some might prefer the primeval sense of strolling or hiking nude in the outdoors. Others might relish the fabulous online yoga and fitness classes launched by BN during the lockdown.

For many, to quote a 2017 Daily Mail article, “Bring naked makes us happier and more satisfied with our bodies.” The story noted that researchers attended two naturist events in the UK and asked participants about their feelings just before shedding their clothes and right before getting re-dressed. In both cases, “participants experienced immediate and significant improvements in body-image, self-esteem and life satisfaction.” Even acknowledging that there may not be empirical proof that nudity is grand for you, it’s hard to argue with people’s perceptions!

And there’s more, from a 2018 Guardian piece. Its author, who admitted she “would have gnawed off my own arm more readily than take off my clothes in public,” tried nudity at a festival. She found, among other revelations, that being naked with others “gets rid of several layers of nonsense. It’s a great leveller, as clothes are our primary markers of tribal identity.” 

Dugie

Need some inspiration to throw off your clothes? Check out the two articles:

https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2018/jul/26/heatwave-perfect-moment-joys-naked-nudism

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-4156788/Being-naked-makes-happier-bodies.html

Then get going! 

BN offers many activities, indoor and out. For more information on all BN events, visit the website: www.bn.org.uk.