InnerSelf.com

Clothing Is Optional

by Shannon Roxborough

Nude recreation is becoming increasingly popular almost everywhere worldwide. Nudists (or Naturists as most practitioners prefer to be labeled) are widely misunderstood souls and it time to dispel existing myths about their way of life in order to increase understanding about this new-age way philosophy.

Nudism is not based on sexual promiscuity, lewdness or exhibitionism. Most Naturists developed their overwhelming desire to adopt the so-called "Clothing Optional Lifestyle" due to their need to get away, totally, from the pressures and stresses of everyday life. Naturists believe that nudism is the ultimate way to completely ward off all of society's constraints by becoming a part of nature.

At a nudist site, you are who you are, and everyone easily and gladly accepts you for that fact alone with no regard for vanity or social stature.

Basic Naturist principles are the belief in the essential wholesomeness of all humans and of the natural functions and activities which they perform. Naturists also believe in the naturalness of social life and consider exposure of the entire human body to light and air beneficial to one's health and spirit. They believe in the right to practice social nudism, provided they do not infringe upon the rights of others.

Most nudist resorts are family oriented and do not allow single males to enter without a female companion. This keeps the atmosphere more wholesome and keeps down the gawkers and swingers (sex seekers) to allow families to enjoy themselves in a friendly atmosphere. Naturist facilities are frequently patrolled to deter voyeurs and remove anyone causing a scene, making lewd remarks or engaging in suggestive behavior.

More Than A Body

The most common problem women have toward a nudist environment is the fact that most think that only perfect 10's will be there and they will be embarrassed by other women. This is simply not the case. Only one in twenty (or less) has an exceptional physical appearance and naturists view all people as beautiful. Just as everyday people, some may have physically attractive bodies and may be proud of them, but most have average physiques and no overwhelming desire to flaunt themselves. When visiting a nudist environment, it soon becomes apparent that human beings are not rated on a scale on one to ten, based on body type, but rather on individual merit. They feel that personalities shine while exterior features have very little meaning.

A pamphlet which has helped many women better understand and adjust to nude life titled, A Woman's Perspective is available from the ASA, Incorporated, 1703 North Main Street, Kissimmee, Florida 34744-9988 USA; 407-933-2064. It details the average female nudist's attitudes about the practice and benefits of nude recreation for women, men and children. Yes, children. Experiences with children at nudist sites seems to suggest that the lifestyle also helps children to better cope with the pressures of growing up. Child naturists seem to be quite relaxed and have no problem with shedding garments. Also, incidents of abusive acts are much more rare than in "clothed" society. Children at these facilities are clean, considerate, and very well mannered.

Enjoying Nature

Naturists go to resorts to relax and enjoy themselves. They enjoy the sun, wind, rain, and various optional recreational activities. They prefer to be away from the pressures of our modern world. Naturists contend that we are all people, no better by wealth nor worse by poverty. At a nudist site, you are who you are, and everyone easily and gladly accepts you for that fact alone with no regard for vanity or social stature. Though this brief summary only touches the tip of the iceberg, I hope that it clears up some of the lingering misconceptions. If you have a stressful life, Naturism may be the answer for you.

"Fun in the Sun: Nudism and Naturist Living"

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About The Author

Shannon Roxborough frequently writes for various national and international publications. He can be reached at: 5139 S. Clarendon Ave., Detroit, MI 48204. 313-898-8223. The Nudist Directory is a complete guide to naturist resources and has listings throughout the U.S. & Canada (including Hawaii & Alaska) and numerous other countries around the world. To order write: Detroit International Publishing, Box 12521g, Berkley, Michigan 48072. For more information on nude recreation, visit http://www.aanr.com/ 

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