Nudism is a strange thing for a lot of people; some people would even find it disgusting to think about not wearing clothes for extended periods of time. But for others, it’s a very real way of life. Nudism is about being comfortable in your own skin, not hiding who you really are, and accepting others at face value. Nudism is not about being sexual, just about being natural. There are many advantages to nudism, and the journey to becoming one is all about self-discovery.
Most people are introduced to nudism through conversation at first. Talking about it puts the idea in their mind, and as Leonardo Dicaprio said in “Inception,” an idea is the “most resilient parasite.” Thinking about nudism, for some people, could make you curious, and with all new things, you’ll start small. Perhaps one would take longer to get dressed after a shower, or sleep in the buff; another option is waiting for an opportunity when you have your home to yourself, and taking your clothes off during that time period. But however you try it for yourself, many people realize that nude is a very comfortable way to be.
There are many different levels of nudism, just like there are different levels of comfort for certain people. First, there are closet nudists, people who may not even realize or consider themselves nudists, but enjoy being nude when they’re by themselves; these people haven’t told anyone of their habits either. Second, there are home nudists, who enjoy spending their time at home in the nude; these people may or may not also enjoy social nudism, which is being nude around other people, who may also be nude. Lastly, there are the more commonly known nudists that people tend to think about when they hear the word. These nudists are open and comfortable with their nudism and will share it with whoever is willing to accept it. They are also the people who frequent the nude beaches and resorts.
Nudism has a very long history; Biblically speaking, all the way back to the Garden of Eden. God created man in His own image, and Adam and Eve spent the first days of humankind in the nude, walking and talking with their creator. It wasn’t until the fall of man introduced sin, and therefore shame, into the world, that man felt he needed to cover the shame of his sin. The pharaohs of ancient Egypt, namely Akhen-Aton (from 1385-1353 BC), his wife, Nefertiti, and his whole court, practiced nudism as tribute to the sun god. Later on, in ancient Greece, the athletes and Olympians of the day all practiced their sports nude.; in fact, the word “gymnasium,” when translated literally means “a place to train naked.” (The root word “gymnos” means “naked.”) This does not mean just their sports however, it also includes music, education, and philosophy; and one of the greatest philosophers, Socrates, promoted nudity as a form of honesty.
It is important not to forget that nudists are real people, and not only that, they can be anybody: your high school math teacher, postal delivery person, or even the babysitter who lives down the road. Some more famous nudists include Benjamin Franklin, Winston Churchill, and more modernly, Johnny Depp, Kevin Bacon, Bruce Willis, Kelly Clarkson, Amy Grant, Eva Mendes, Kate Hudson, Zoe Saldana, and even the late Fred Rogers. Anybody can be a nudist, and they all have different personalities as well. One nudist may invite a new friend over, and open the door completely naked, knowing that their friends will soon find out about their habit; another may know that not everyone is comfortable with nudity, and put a robe or shorts on to receive a pizza delivery.
The current laws in most places dictate than you must wear clothing in public. This is the case in the United States with some exceptions. While most states can penalize you public indecency for exposure of your genitals or even the female breasts, the state of New York (as well a few smaller cities in other states) has adopted “topless equality” laws, allowing women to be legally top-free anywhere men are able. Other states, such as Oregon or Vermont, have decency laws that allow for nudity, but not sexual activity. Topless equality laws are also more common in many European countries.
Like all social groups and communities there is certain etiquette to being involved in such groups. While being nude does expose your genitals to other people who are going to see them, it is considered impolite to gawk or stare. As a male, the biggest problem might be considered an erection; while some believe that an erection is just as natural as nudity itself, the majority would advise you to cover it so as not to offend anyone. Nudism is not about being sexual, just about being natural, and an erection can be considered sexual.
In addition to etiquette, there are certain hygiene issues to take into account. In addition to the normal showering regularly, brushing your teeth, etc, you have to consider things that might be touched while nude, such as furniture. It is perfectly ok to sit on a chair or couch while nude, but in order to not dirty the furniture, you should always sit on a towel. For this reason, many nudists will keep their own towels with them when they go somewhere.
Socially, nudists are just like any other person. They enjoying going to the beach, or to house parties, and have to do all the same things other people do like working and shopping. Nudists socialize with other nudists, or with textiles (that is, non-nudists), and that’s usually how textiles learn of nudism. A nudist won’t force his ideals onto you, but he will share his experience, and will encourage you to give it a shot. (Don’t knock it ‘til you’ve tried it.) This is how textiles become nudists; they try nudism, and discover that they like it in many cases. This is how many nudist families get started, by one partner being raised nudist, and then introducing it their spouse, usually long before the wedding.
Nudist families are another part of social nudity, and have several advantages. For instance, young children growing up a nude family are easier to potty-train, because they see they aren’t supposed to be wearing a diaper, and that other people go to the bathroom to do their business. Another example is that children raised in a nude home have a better self-image and body acceptance, because they’re around nudity all the time. And finally teenagers from nudist homes are less likely to rebel due to the atmosphere of openness that nudity has created; instead of getting in trouble with sex and drugs, they’ll ask questions and speak what’s on their mind.
Weather is another aspect that affects nudism. One of the most common questions asked is, “What if you get cold?” The answer is simpler than you think. You don’t have to get dressed, though that certainly is an option. But the solution looked to by nudists it usually a blanket. If you get cold either at night or just the weather in general, wrap yourself in a blanket, or even add an extra one to your bed. And if you’re comfortable with the people you’re with, sharing body heat is proven to be the best way to stay warm.
There are nudist clubs, beaches, and resorts all over the United States, and the World. They can be easily found using Google or internet search engine. If you’re reading this, and are intrigued, you don’t have to visit a nude beach. All you have to do is disrobe by yourself and then do whatever you might normally do. Nobody even has to see you your first time. Give it a try; you might like it.
