Doug [Interview With A Naturist]

Interview with Doug at the the Eastern Naturist Gathering 2009 on why I enjoy nude recreation.

Amanda [Interview With A Naturist]

Interview with Amanda at the the Eastern Naturist Gathering 2009 on why I enjoy nude recreation.

Christina [Interview With A Naturist]

Interview with Christina at the the Eastern Naturist Gathering 2009 on why I enjoy nude recreation.

Krystin [Interview With A Naturist]

Interview with Krystin at the the Eastern Naturist Gathering 2009 on why I enjoy nude recreation.

Karen [Interview With A Naturist]

Interview with Karen at the the Eastern Naturist Gathering 2009 on why I enjoy nude recreation.

Scott [Interview With A Naturist]

Interview with Scott at the the Eastern Naturist Gathering 2009 on why I enjoy nude recreation.

My Nudist Philosophy... [Submitted Article]

BY NAKED ANDY

To be human is to have a human body. To be ashamed of one’s body is to be ashamed of being human.

Photo copyright Nor-Cal Photography 2010.

For longer than I can remember, I have preferred to be naked. There are photos of my siblings and me as children, in which they wear pajamas and I am naked. There is an old home movie of us splashing in a wading pool; they wear swimsuits and I am naked. Evidently, a sense of freedom and joy at feeling uninterrupted air or water all over my skin has always been a part of who I am.

As a young man, I sought out situations where nudity was readily accepted (nude beaches) or — even better — required (modeling for art classes, performing nude scenes in plays). I had a few close friends with whom I could be socially naked, but, for the most part, I needed permission or an excuse to get out of my clothes; “Hey, they’re paying me.”

My body has grown less pretty as I have aged. Well, so has my face. So has my hair. Does this mean I should cover my face, and wear a hat at all times? If anything, the changes in my body have deepened my understanding that nudity is not the exclusive domain of the young and beautiful. Nudity is the default setting for all of us. It’s wrong to let ourselves be bullied or shamed into taking the action of hiding behind clothing. A society in which individuals are free to be as dressed or undressed as they wish would be my ideal.

Having learned to be more honest and unabashed about my desire to be nude in daily life, I seize or create opportunities to be clothes-free regardless of what the expected “norm” might be. Because I think nakedness should be okay, I tend to push the envelope in the spirit of Be the Change. Most of my public nudity takes place where it is neither illegal nor unheard of…. but, yes, there’s some envelope-pushing going on there, too.

Whether among friends…

…or in a crowd of strangers…

… I believe that being non-sexually naked among clothed folk has the potential to nudge them toward body acceptance.

Many onlookers, in person and online seem to respond to nudity with strictly prurient interest or as if it were a freak show… and I can’t control that. I hope that eventually, through osmosis, SOME of them may come to think that a human body is a perfectly natural thing which doesn’t ALWAYS mean sex, and which need not be hidden from view.

I'm proud to be a guest blogger on iNAKED. My own blog is @ http://ihavenoprivateparts.tumblr.com/

~ Naked Andy

A Guide To The Urbanisations At Vera Playa [Travel]

Considering a holiday in Vera Playa and not sure where to stay? The area around Vera Playa has been growing for years and now - in addition to the well-known hotel - there are many “urbanisations” with houses or apartments, restaurants and pools of their own, amongst other facilities. This is a designated “naturist zone”, so whilst each urbanisation is separate, you can walk on the surrounding roads to the beach without having to get dressed – a kind of naturist housing estate!

The Vera Playa Hotel offers a choice of rooms and mini-apartments with fridge and basic cooking facilities. There is a choice of bed and breakfast, half- or full-board or fully inclusive. The food is a typical buffet service, with a barbeque on the beachside terrace. The hotel is naturist, but you must dress for meals and after 8 p.m. I believe that access to the pool is restricted to hours when the lifeguard is on duty.

Natsun was the first naturist urbanisation, built more than 30 years ago. Some of the blocks are front-line to the beach and quality varies enormously. Many are studios, some are very basic and rather old. Some of the older apartments have been beautifully renovated, but there are also some new apartments (Elcano III) and some small bungalows (La Medina).

Behind Natsun is Vera Luz. Vera Luz consists of (I think) 36 apartments, ground floor with a garden and 1st floor with a rooftop sun terrace. There are communal gardens and a small pool.

Vera Natura is also front-line to the beach and consists of 200 apartments – one- and two-bedroomed on the ground floor, with two-bedroom duplexes on the upper floors. It has beautifully mature gardens, much of which are enclosed by hedges belonging to the ground floor apartments. It has a lovely large outdoor pool and an indoor pool. The urbanisation is about 12 years old. Some apartments are a little basic, with a two-ring hob and no oven, but the apartments are very spacious, with a big round bath in the large bathroom. Some are also rather basically furnished, but many that are privately owned and marketed to the English market are lovely. There is a communal satellite system, so most apartments have CNN and Eurosport.

La Menara is second-line behind Vera Natura and with ‘Moorish’ architectural detail. It consists of 56 apartments in seven blocks of eight, one and two bedroomed on the ground floor, one bedroom on the second floor with rooftop sun terrace and two-bedroomed on the first floor. It was completed in 2002. La Menara feels very spacious because the gardens between the blocks are ‘open plan’, so there is plenty of green space between the apartment blocks and around the pool. The pool and communal gardens are very pretty. Some apartments have a two-ring hob and no oven, others are very well furnished and equipped. Again, these are very spacious apartments with large, luxury marble bathrooms and granite worktops. The communal satellite system gives BBC1, BBC2, ITV1 and ITV3. La Menara has secure parking.

Bahia de Vera is a larger urbanisation, with 200 apartments in long two-storey blocks and a ‘high-rise’ block of four floors called Brisamar. There are also three large detached houses. Bahia has lovely apartments, some have private gardens, others have huge terraces. The communal gardens now lovely, following a change in the management system and the outdoor pool is beautiful. There is a fully refurbished indoor pool, heated and dehumidified for use throughout the winter. Bahia de Vera has secure parking.

Torremar Natura is third-line to the beach, behind Bahia de Vera. These apartments are beautifully appointed, but some are rather small. Some on the ‘outside’ of the urbanisation have lovely patios overlooking the pool and communal gardens, but the ones in the middle are very high density. There is an indoor pool that is heated throughout the winter. Torremar Natura has secure parking.

Parque Vera is second-line to the beach, behind Natsun. This development was built in several phases. Parque Vera 1 is an urbanisation of town-houses, built in a square around beautiful central communal gardens and pool. The town-houses are two- or three-bedroom and there are also 18 apartments, large studios, one-bedroomed and two-bedroomed apartments. There is private parking, though not inside the gated community. Each subsequent development became rather more high density - the final phase (Parque Vera 5) is now complete. The later developments consist of three- storey blocks of apartments. Some have lovely round balconies, but many blocks are ‘the wrong way round’ – facing north or north-east.

Armony Natura is front-line to the beach, next to Natsun. This is a small development of apartments that were very expensive. They have sophisticated security systems and electronic gadgetry and are very well appointed. These can be recognised by the very distinctive blue domes.

So how do you choose?

Different apartments suit different people. What are your priorities? When do you plan to travel? What is your lifestyle? If you are planning to winter in Vera Playa you need to avoid a north-facing apartment, or you will not be warm enough. If travelling in summer, mosquito nets and fans are the minimum requirement, and from mid-July to mid-September air-conditioning will make your nights more comfortable. Does the patio have some shade? If not, your patio will not be usable in the afternoons.

Security is important: like every resort, Vera Playa occasionally has trouble with opportunist thieves. How secure is the apartment, does it have a safe? Does it have rejas (security bars)? In summer, parking is quite important as the streets are full, but all-year-round secure parking is a bonus.

Lots of private advertisers in BN offer excellent quality, well-serviced apartments, furnished and equipped to suit British holidaymakers, and there are plenty of holiday companies who deal with the area, too. Travelling is easy - public transport from the airports is possible and most people letting apartments will organise airport transfers for you (for a supplement), but a hire car will allow you to enjoy the fabulous surroundings and explore pretty villages, the mountains and other fabulous naturist beaches. Spain is a fabulous place for a naturist holiday - come and enjoy it!

Source: British Naturism

Vera Playa - Main Website
Vera Playa Friends

Save The Nudists! [Youth & Naturism]

Young naturists of South Florida talk about what it's like to live naked in a clothed world.

To see the video, click here.

Kleren Aan, Kleren Uit (Clothes On, Clothes Off) [Film]

Kleren Aan, Kleren Uit is een korte documentaire over de 12-jarige Frana. Haar ouders zijn naturisten. Als de zon schijnt lopen ze graag in hun blootje. Frana weet niet of ze hier nu zo blij mee is. Het dilemma van Frana is: hou ik mijn kleren aan of gaan mijn kleren uit?

-------------------

Clothes On, Clothes Off is a short documentary about the 12 year old Frana, whose parents are naturists, they like to walk around naked. Frana is having doubts if she wants to take her clothes off.

Going Bare [Documentary]

Going Bare is a Documentary about Linda Adams, a Naturist, or as some people may call her - A nudist.
This documentary was made as an assignment as part of the DFTV610 course at the New Zealand Broadcasting School.

Director, Editor, Director of Photography: Ruby Keighley
Producer: Danielle Stanbury

NUDE Year's Party @ Chan Resort, Thailand [Nude Experiences]

It was a party like no other party we have ever had. It was a NUDE Years party. The first of it's kind in Thailand, not counting Pattaya or Chan Resort.

First it looked like any other party a few members coming, but it quickly turned in to a rousing success. We had nice different countries represented and it was all couples with one exception 1 single male. There were American, Russian, Thai, Dutch, Danish, Norwegian, British, Hong Kong and Indian. Any body that says Thai's don't get naked, surely didn't count the 5 Thai wives that were at our party. They were such natural naturists, you wouldn't know they had not been in a social naturist setting before.

There was a Russian couple that didn't have anywhere else to go, they had checked all other resorts near by and found them full. Their friends that had checked in to a nearby resort couldn't even get them a room. When they checked with Chan Resort they found we had room. They were even naturists, having been on naturist picnics in Russia. Once they found out what we had planned for the Nude Years Party they asked if they could invite another couple that was their friends. We counted up to see how much food we had, and said sure they can come. So our total group of naturists grew to top out at twenty people from an varied international background.

After dinner we all brought out our Android tablets for translation purposes. It was great fun. (I thought I was going to have Android and Google withdrawal over the holidays...lol) we were using Google Translate on our tablets and everything worked perfectly.

Gregers got the whole group doing toasts in their native language and even got all of them up to do a line dance call they Hokey Pokey. You never saw so many naked people having such a great time.

As we approached midnight, we took the Champagne and went up to the roof where we could see the fireworks. The view is from Naklua in the north to way south of Jomtiem Beach. The fireworks started and we were spinning around try to see all of them. They were absolutely fabulous. Then we popped the Champagne and all had a toast to the Nude Years. It was without a doubt the best new years party I have been to in decades.
Anybody that missed this party surely missed one grand event.

This clothing optional event was sponsored by www.Thailandnaturist.com.

Chan Resort in Pattaya a naturist friendly resort

This article was submitted to iNAKED by B. Kendall. If you like to articles of your own, please click here for details.

It’s The Way You Tell ‘Em! [Naturism Advice]

Roni Fine, a member of British Naturism, showed how the world doesn’t end when people know about your naturism. She discusses how to go about successfully telling them

In your enthusiasm to introduce people to the naturist lifestyle you may need to pause and think of how you are going to portray it, as those first few words could make the difference between attraction and repulsion.

So often I have heard the question, “Why would I want to do that?” and that can mean a lengthy explanation, so let’s get the explanation in first and they won’t need to ask!

Example 1: “I go somewhere where we all take our clothes off and lie in the sun, play sports or swim in the pool in the nude.” This usually raises the big question, “Why?”

Example 2: “After a long day at work in the summer, whilst you are on your way home in the car, stuck in the traffic, picture me on my way to my club where I will be able to jump into a pool which will be refreshing, invigorating and relaxing. I will climb out and leisurely dry myself before lounging in the sun with a drink at my side and in the company of other relaxed, contented people. I will let my skin safely soak up the much-needed vitamin D and totally unwind after a day at work. We will enjoy pleasant conversation until the sun goes down. All this and the total freedom of being naked, too.”

Famous comedian Frank Carson wasn’t wrong when he said, “It’s the way I tell ’em!” It’s all in the delivery. If you describe the sensation first and the way to achieve it second, the listener is already wanting it and will lap it up. It’s marketing!

This is what the famous M&S ads have achieved. They describe a quite ordinary meal in such a way that we are salivating at the mere thought of it. We can copy this method, “This is no ordinary way to relax - this is the naturist way to relax.” We can make it sound so much more special than everyone else’s!

When someone asks me where I go at the weekend I don’t just say, “I go to a naturist club and take my clothes off.” What does that tell them? The bare facts, yes! But it does nothing to sell naturism, or Blackthorns, in fact it runs the risk of their thinking that I’m ‘one of those strange people’, and I don’t want them to think that, at least, not because of naturism!

What I say is: “I belong to a club that is set in 15 acres of woodland. It’s a beautiful natural setting that is full of birdsong and wildlife. There are many types of trees and in spring the floor is a carpet of primroses and violets, followed by masses of bluebells. There is always the chance to spot muntjac or roe-deer that frequent the wood and so many types of birds to look out for and identify. Their songs are so beautiful. You might never hear anything like it if you live in a built-up area. It is such a relaxing place to be and I’m sure it is a help to lose some of the stresses of life and gives me a complete break. It’s like having a mini-holiday right on my doorstep! We have a pool and patio that catch the sunshine all through the day, right until the last rays are setting in the distance.

We have a communal barbecue where we cook our own food and dine together, drinking and talking until late in the evening. Families and children are included and we are of all ages and backgrounds, making an interesting group of people that can evoke conversation that you might never find elsewhere. In conversation and discussion, we are all equals, sharing laughter and friendship. We also have many sporting facilities, so we can be as active as we wish or merely soak up the sunshine - all of which is made even more comfortable by the fact that we remove the constrictions of clothing and are totally free to the world. It’s a great place to be.”

There, weren’t you lapping all that up and then, had you not been reading BN, only at the end would you have realised that we take our clothes off. Before that, not a mention of nudity or naturism, but the impression of a comfortable relaxed atmosphere - one of which who wouldn’t want to be part?

If you don’t have a club like Blackthorns (http://www.blackthorns.org.uk/) to describe you can still use your experiences, be they at a beach, swim or holiday resort. Describe your holiday with great emphasis on every aspect you think that particular listener would be keen on, whether it is a lovely beach, beautiful scenery, long walks or the nearest golf course. If you attend a swim enlarge on the friendly atmosphere and the health and fitness aspect, followed by the social side of belonging to a group of like-minded people.

Paint a picture that is so good that everyone wants some of it and then throw in the naturist factor! Leaving the nudity bit to last takes away its importance and hopefully helps people to accept that it is a natural part of our life and not the only part.

Once this aspect has been mentioned, keep the attention by describing the feeling of invigoration and freedom. Ask if they have watched the television programme How to Look Good Naked. Most know of it as once the word ‘naked’ is used people will watch! Isn`t it amazing that the one subject they find repulsive in reality is the one they find compulsive television viewing! The expression used to describe the final photo shoot by the ladies who have found the courage to strip for it is “liberating”. Almost all have said that nudity was their biggest fear and, once done, they have found the strength to face the world and anything it might throw at them. And to think we are doing this all the time!

Of course, there will be some who still suspect nudity equals sexual activity, and that is to be expected of some narrow-minded individuals who only see naked bodies depicted in that way. It isn’t really their fault that they are suspicious, but we must try to explain the difference and it is our open attitude that will guide them to accept that our social nudity is of a non-sexual nature.

Explain that because everyone is naked it becomes the norm and no longer attracts the attention that it would in the high street. In fact it is the newcomer, still fully dressed, that gets noticed. As for any sexual attraction, just point out that it is the addition of clothing that evokes these feelings. Partial clothing of the body is far more of a tease - you only have to look at the relevant magazines for examples of that. I always tell people that, if they should come and look at the naked bodies lying around the pool, they would soon find it boring as they are quite inactive and all pretty much alike. People are not behaving competitively nor parading or preening themselves, but are relaxed and at ease with each other. Remind people that this is how it is at any naturist beach or swim. If they want a bit more activity, then promote Nudefest or the [Blackpool] weekends! Ensure they realise naturism covers all ages and interests, including sports for which they need only join BN and a whole new world is open to them! A lot of people don`t realise that naturism can be so much more than merely removing one’s clothes!

Be prepared for people to say they couldn’t do this because they are overweight, unattractive, have scars, cellulite or whatever else they can think of to blame. Be ready to explain that they are not too overweight, or anything else, as naturism is accepting of all shapes and sizes. Be careful you don’t sound like you are agreeing with them on this one, merely explaining that whatever they are, and however they feel, they are perfectly able to participate and will not be judged. Whilst reminding them that naturism is about body acceptance and not body beautiful, be careful you do not imply they are not! Show them your copy of BN or direct them to the website to prove we are just everyday normal people and not all super-model types. Try to convey the confidence boost we can feel simply by finding the strength to shed our clothes and inhibitions, and the feel-good factor it brings with it. I try to explain the feeling by relating it to the wondrous relief we get when kicking off a pair of shoes after a long, hard day, but you get this feeling all over when you shed your clothes!

Have a reply ready for when people ask why you are a naturist, so that it sounds spontaneous but truthful. Think hard - why do you do this? The simple answer I give is that it feels nice. I remind people that I do it to feel good - not to be seen, not to upset or shock, not to push the boundaries of the law, not to demand my rights as a citizen, simply because it feels nice. I then go on to explain why I attend a club to do this. I know it isn’t against the law to be naked in public (and it is always worth stating that), but I still prefer to be somewhere I feel comfortable and safe in the knowledge that no one is going to be upset. Personally, I think I gain respect by saying I don’t wish to cause offence. I don’t want to provoke a confrontation and, whether we like it or not, the majority of the public are just not ready for us - yet! Let’s get them used to our being naked in certain places first, take away the shock aspect of it and educate them that we are just ordinary people. If we show them respect by doing this in recognised places, be it clubs, allocated beaches or private gardens, they will show us respect in return. With a gradual approach we might soon be able to openly sunbathe nude in public parks as they do on the continent. First, we need to take away the fear people have of us because, let’s face it, their reaction is usually down to being afraid - what other reason is there for them to object to seeing a body without clothes? Personally, I would be much more afraid of encountering a masked man, a “hoodie”, or other threatening-looking person in a lonely spot, than a naked man!

Whatever your long-term views, we must wean the public on to naturism gradually so that they accept it. If we try to do too much too quickly, they will not want to listen but will vote against it every time. As the Ashanti people in Ghana told Baden-Powell, “Softly, softly catchee monkey!”

SOUCRE: British Naturism

Why Is Nudity So Attractive To Those That Have Experienced It?

This article is from Sunkissed - Australian Naturists:

I must say that I find that the more time I spend naked the more I want to.

As I am reinforcing my natural state, I guess that makes sense. It is good for the body and the mind so any wonder it is so attractive.

When the weather is inclement on the weekends I really miss the trip down to Cobblers beach where I can be naked and enjoy the outdoors without the concern that someone may see me and be offended.

Read The Whole Article @ Sunkissed - Australian Naturists

Tarde Directo: Los nudistas apuran los últimos rayos de sol

AFTERNOON LIVE: NUDISTS RUSH THE LAST RAYS OF SUN

Tras la masificación del verano aprovechan al máximo antes de la llegada del frío. Nos hemos colado en Veranatura, en Almería, una urbanización pensada por y para ellos.

After the mass take full advantage of the summer before the cold weather arrives. We have slipped into Veranatura in Almeria, a development designed by and for them.

Social Nudity From A Women's Point Of View [Women & Naturism]

This article was taken from Vermont Freehiking Club:

We have never met, but I am taking the liberty to write you because I understand that your significant other has become interested in nudism or clothes-free recreation. You are wondering whether or not to share in this. My husband and I are nudists, and like you, we both experienced all the concerns and uncertainties the first time we tried it. All the vague fears and worries I fretted about proved groundless. I would like to help you experience and become comfortable with this lifestyle. I hope you will let me try.

Perhaps telling about my first experience with nude recreation will lead you to that end. I was vacationing at a resort in the Caribbean. The first two days were spent on the beach sitting in a soggy swimsuit and being chafed by sand. I signed up for a day boat trip and picnic at a beach on an island away from the resort. As we were leaving, I discovered that the excursion was to an island with a nude beach! I decided to go anyway, thinking no way was anybody getting me out of my suit. I stood firm, and in fact, was the last person to give in and shed my swimsuit - I was the last one to get dressed to return to the resort. Why hadn't someone told me about this sooner? I was hooked, and that was over 30 years ago. The phrase, "nude when possible, clothed when practical," definitely describes me. I do wear at least shoes when vacuuming the house though as I have a habit of running over my toes with the vacuum cleaner.

I admit that my first reaction was that this is something that was not an acceptable practice. I was unaware that there are national organizations and did not know anyone who could shed light on this relaxing way of life. The literature available today, some of which your significant other might have asked you to look over, tells it like it is. Everyone will tell you that once you have made your first visit, the feeling of apprehension will vanish. Until you experience a thing for yourself, words cannot tell you how you should feel or how you should act or react.

Believe in your mate. You have a good relationship, and I'm sure your significant other has never asked you to do anything that was wrong or really unpleasant. Occasionally, we don't want to do some things at first, but since it means a great deal to him, it usually turns out fine. This too, means a great deal to him. When you decide to visit a club, give them a call and inform them that this will be your first visit. Contrary to what most people believe, you generally will not be asked to leave your clothes at the gate. You will be given a tour of the premises, where the pool or hot tub, or other facilities are located. If you are visiting a non-landed club, you will most likely visit with some of the members at a neutral location, i.e., coffee shop, after which you will be invited to an event.

Some common fears of women with whom I have been in contact include being secretly worried that she wouldn't be as attractive to her spouse as she had been, compared with all the beautiful figures she was sure must be there.

For the most part, there is a normal cross-section of the population. The solution for this particular lady was the security she felt in her relationship and that the relationship was based on more than just physical attractiveness. Another fear is what sort of people will I meet. You will meet doctors, lawyers, clergymen and women, taxi drivers, accountants, secretaries, warehouse- men, waiters, school teachers, moms, dads, grandparents, teenagers, infants. We are your neighbors, your friends.

It's a wonderful feeling to meet entirely new people and enjoy new interests and activities. There is a peculiar thing you have to experience to believe, but there is a friendliness about nudists that you will generally not find in any other group. I have come to count our nudist friends among my closest. They seem to always be there for me, for us.

Why don't you try your hand at being a nudist in your own home. Try sleeping nude, if you don't already--once you get used to it, you won't want to sleep any other way.

That's the first easy step. Then, when you take your shower or bath, don't grab for a robe except for comfort. Do your nails or set your hair or just read the newspaper. I think you will enjoy it. If you exercise, try it without clothes, it feels wonderful. Wear whatever you need to feel comfortable. Since it's convenient and healthful at times to dispense with clothes, nudists do. We're not different from other people, just more comfortable.

I hope I've been able to help just a little. Offer a compromise to your mate. Give him an hour of your time, you will wish you had sooner.

Sincerely,
Cheri Donna

SOURCE: Vermont Freehiking Club

Social Nudity From A Women's Point Of View [Women & Naturism]

This article was taken from Vermont Freehiking Club:

We have never met, but I am taking the liberty to write you because I understand that your significant other has become interested in nudism or clothes-free recreation. You are wondering whether or not to share in this. My husband and I are nudists, and like you, we both experienced all the concerns and uncertainties the first time we tried it. All the vague fears and worries I fretted about proved groundless. I would like to help you experience and become comfortable with this lifestyle. I hope you will let me try.

Perhaps telling about my first experience with nude recreation will lead you to that end. I was vacationing at a resort in the Caribbean. The first two days were spent on the beach sitting in a soggy swimsuit and being chafed by sand. I signed up for a day boat trip and picnic at a beach on an island away from the resort. As we were leaving, I discovered that the excursion was to an island with a nude beach! I decided to go anyway, thinking no way was anybody getting me out of my suit. I stood firm, and in fact, was the last person to give in and shed my swimsuit - I was the last one to get dressed to return to the resort. Why hadn't someone told me about this sooner? I was hooked, and that was over 30 years ago. The phrase, "nude when possible, clothed when practical," definitely describes me. I do wear at least shoes when vacuuming the house though as I have a habit of running over my toes with the vacuum cleaner.

I admit that my first reaction was that this is something that was not an acceptable practice. I was unaware that there are national organizations and did not know anyone who could shed light on this relaxing way of life. The literature available today, some of which your significant other might have asked you to look over, tells it like it is. Everyone will tell you that once you have made your first visit, the feeling of apprehension will vanish. Until you experience a thing for yourself, words cannot tell you how you should feel or how you should act or react.

Believe in your mate. You have a good relationship, and I'm sure your significant other has never asked you to do anything that was wrong or really unpleasant. Occasionally, we don't want to do some things at first, but since it means a great deal to him, it usually turns out fine. This too, means a great deal to him. When you decide to visit a club, give them a call and inform them that this will be your first visit. Contrary to what most people believe, you generally will not be asked to leave your clothes at the gate. You will be given a tour of the premises, where the pool or hot tub, or other facilities are located. If you are visiting a non-landed club, you will most likely visit with some of the members at a neutral location, i.e., coffee shop, after which you will be invited to an event.

Some common fears of women with whom I have been in contact include being secretly worried that she wouldn't be as attractive to her spouse as she had been, compared with all the beautiful figures she was sure must be there.

For the most part, there is a normal cross-section of the population. The solution for this particular lady was the security she felt in her relationship and that the relationship was based on more than just physical attractiveness. Another fear is what sort of people will I meet. You will meet doctors, lawyers, clergymen and women, taxi drivers, accountants, secretaries, warehouse- men, waiters, school teachers, moms, dads, grandparents, teenagers, infants. We are your neighbors, your friends.

It's a wonderful feeling to meet entirely new people and enjoy new interests and activities. There is a peculiar thing you have to experience to believe, but there is a friendliness about nudists that you will generally not find in any other group. I have come to count our nudist friends among my closest. They seem to always be there for me, for us.

Why don't you try your hand at being a nudist in your own home. Try sleeping nude, if you don't already--once you get used to it, you won't want to sleep any other way.

That's the first easy step. Then, when you take your shower or bath, don't grab for a robe except for comfort. Do your nails or set your hair or just read the newspaper. I think you will enjoy it. If you exercise, try it without clothes, it feels wonderful. Wear whatever you need to feel comfortable. Since it's convenient and healthful at times to dispense with clothes, nudists do. We're not different from other people, just more comfortable.

I hope I've been able to help just a little. Offer a compromise to your mate. Give him an hour of your time, you will wish you had sooner.

Sincerely,
Cheri Donna

SOURCE: Vermont Freehiking Club

Nudism And The Goddess [Religion]

SummerStitchinWitch's trip to a nudist camp and how it helped her connect with nature.

Nudism And The Goddess [Religion]

SummerStitchinWitch's trip to a nudist camp and how it helped her connect with nature.

I'm New To This, Me!" [Naturism]

Roni Fine, a member of British Naturism, gives a beginner’s guide to naturism

So you’ve decided to become a naturist, now what? Is it that simple - you take your clothes off and that’s it? Well, yes, in principle that’s all you need to do, but there is a whole lot more out there to make naturism an enjoyable way of life.

To be reading this you have obviously got as far as joining BN, or know someone who has, and that is a good way of sourcing information. You can find details of clubs and swims, days out and holiday destinations. Next, you decide to head off to one of these places, but what does this involve? Do you just turn up? What is expected of you? If I had to write a naturist law, I would say, “Do not do anything to upset or offend another person.” But isn’t that a good rule for any community?

There is social etiquette, as in any way of life, but first of all, relax! Naturism is all about the feel good factor, so don’t get stressed out worrying how you are to do it! Just be yourself, only, when it is warm enough, remove your clothes. It is as simple as that - well, okay, there might be a few unwritten rules

It can seem a little daunting to undress in front of perfect strangers – and if it is your first time, no one is going to force you until you are ready - take your time and feel comfortable. Once you are with a group of naked people, you often feel the odd one out if dressed. Once you strip off, you feel one of the crowd and it feels completely normal! You can generally choose where to undress - not necessarily with an audience! It is best to choose clothing that is easy to deal with, so as not to attract attention to yourself - something simple that pulls off and on with little effort. T-shirt and shorts for the men. A simple sun-dress for the ladies. Women often feel very exposed when first going naked, so it can be a good idea to wear a sarong. You can very simply loosen and drop the sarong as you sit down and tie it again as you get up, without drawing attention to yourself. You will soon be able to get up and walk without even thinking of replacing it.

Don’t worry that you will no longer have the need to buy a new dress – sorry, gentlemen, but when your lady says she has nothing to wear, she isn’t joking! Naturist venues mainly involve evening socials to be clothed events, as handling food or each other on the dance floor is generally considered to be best carried out fully clothed.

You might well be wondering where to look and thinking it will be embarrassing to be close to other people when undressed. Don’t fret - it will be easier than you imagine. There is far more eye contact between naturists and perhaps this concentrates the mind on the conversation, as it is often said how friendly and approachable naturists are. It is obvious etiquette not to stare at people, but as always, “Do unto others as you wish to be done by” stands fast.

The biggest fear of taking part as a naturist is usually the person’s own lack of self-esteem. They think their body is not good enough to be seen. Am I right? Is that what you have been thinking? That it is all right for those who are slim, trim and toned, beautifully tanned and attractive? Well, think again! Naturists are not that small a section of the population, we are a whole cross-section of all shapes and sizes, from all backgrounds and of all ages: a thoroughly mixed bunch of people, so yes, you too can be a naturist! Do not worry that you have a body problem that might stop you from being unclothed, as the naturist community is the one place that is totally accepting and you will not find prejudice or ridicule. I have witnessed this and been told directly by people with artificial limbs, mastectomies, cellulite and scars.

What I hear time and again is that naturism is a great leveller, by which people mean that once the clothing identity is removed, we see the real person and take more notice of their true self - their attitude, their intelligence, their friendliness, their sense of humour and their feelings. Gone is the need to dress to impress and hide behind a false persona.

People often worry about the effect naturism has on children, but it is the children who love to be free of clothing and it is only the grown-ups who finally make them feel ashamed of their bodies. By raising children in a naturist community you will be raising them with fewer hang-ups and greater understanding of their peers.

And no white bits! What could possibly persuade you to be a naturist more than having no white bits?! Bodies look best when they have an all-over colour! But don’t worry if you are a redhead and burn easily - naturism isn’t just about getting a suntan, it is about being natural and feeling good, and you can do that in the shade, too!

Many men are genuinely worried that they might suffer a natural reaction to an attractive female, but they soon appreciate that we are dealing with non-sexual nudity and it is the addition of clothing that adds the sexual connotation. Having said that, it is a good idea to carry a towel. It can be held in front of your body if you feel rather exposed, and it also provides you with something to do with your hands when standing around, initially feeling very much on show. You will soon feel totally at ease and just drape it over your arm or shoulder. Of course, it is a compulsory accessory for every naturist as it is etiquette, for obvious reasons, to sit on your own towel when using communal seating.

Ladies, you might wonder what to do when you have a period and the answer is simple – wear whatever is comfortable for you. Of course, it would soon be noticed in most clubs if you never uncovered, as the majority are not clothes- optional. You do need to have the intention to be naturist whenever possible. This leads to another frequently asked question: “What do you do when it gets cold?” The answer to this is more obvious than people imagine: we get dressed! It is strange how people still think naturists remain naked whatever the weather, and I always explain that we are naturists, not masochists! What you will find is that you need to carry something warm but easy to slip on, as the temperature in this country changes, like the…er…weather!

There are many jokes about what to do with your money and keys, as you have no pockets, and there are no prizes for realising that the female half of a couple always ends up with everything in her handbag – but isn’t that always the case, anywhere? It goes almost without saying that cooking, especially barbecueing, is best done wearing an apron, if only to dispel those silly jokes about cooking the wrong sausage, but also to protect oneself from spitting fat!

Body piercings and tattoos are often a cause for concern. I have never heard of objections to tattoos - just the occasional cringe at the thought of the pain involved in obtaining them! I believe nipple jewellery is generally accepted, but some clubs frown on genital piercings, especially if they are not discreet, so it might be wise to make enquiries before turning up fully adorned.

Naturism can mean different things to different people and you need to decide what the right path is for you. Some people are happy to throw off their clothes when home alone or in the privacy of their own secluded garden (lucky things!), and this is enough for them, but others want to be part of a community and use naturism to meet like-minded individuals. This can open up a whole new world to you, full of new friends and activities linking you with people all over the country, indeed, the world.

For some, naturism is more of an outdoor pastime and they find somewhere to walk off the beaten track. You need to carry some instant clothing to ensure a quick cover-up, but the worry of meeting someone who objects does rather spoil the tranquillity of the moment. Hence people visit beaches that have been set aside, although some involve a hike to reach them, so you must be fit! However nice these designated beaches are, the other problem I must warn you of is that they are still public and there is the chance of people attending for the wrong reason. I am, of course, referring to the presence of ‘meerkats’. If you have ever watched a nature programme about these animals, you will instantly recognise the similarity between them and the rogue males who bob up and down in the sand-dunes to view naked bodies. When behaviour gets beyond that which can be ignored it needs reporting. Regrettably, naturists are loath to do this for fear of local people and council officials using these incidents to close these beaches to them. We don’t want these people polluting our beaches either, so please report them to the police or get advice from BN. Please don’t think all single males are prone to this behaviour - it is a minority group. There is safety in numbers, so place yourself near others and you will find true naturists are a friendly group and that it is easy to engage in conversation. You will soon have someone to watch over your belongings whilst you wander down to the water’s edge.

If a trip to the beach is too far to be worthwhile as the weather might have changed before you get there, then a club is your best bet. You might not have the waves lapping and the sand under your feet, but you will find yourself in a friendly, relaxed, comfortable and safe atmosphere. Does that sound like I am biased towards clubs? Well, maybe I am, because I love what I have at Blackthorns and I don’t deny it! But I also love to visit the Welsh Morfa Dyffryn beach. I will put up with the slight possibility of ‘meerkats’ for the beauty of the sea and sand and if I lived closer, I would be there every weekend. I’ve said it before and I will say it again, by joining a club you are instantly in a safe, secluded environment where everyone is there for the right purpose and this creates a relaxed atmosphere, enabling you to get on with feeling good! Most clubs consist of a pool and sunbathing lawns and a good social scene, with dances and gatherings as well as sporting facilities, which can be for fun or competition. By belonging to CCBN you can join teams and compete against other clubs.

A lot of people discover naturism when holidaying abroad and finding themselves on a naturist beach by accident - or so they say! Perhaps it is their way of trying it out without admitting that it has been their lifelong wish!

There are a growing number of classy holiday destinations for naturists, whether at naturist hotels, near naturist beaches or at a proper naturist complex where you can literally remain undressed day and night for the whole of your stay, whether on the beach, at the bar, in the restaurant or at the supermarket. There is a whole world of naturism to discover out there.

Well, there you are - all set to face the naturist population with pride and confidence. Now I must dash out and buy a new towel as I have just realised that I haven`t any to go with my new red shoes. Oh, and I need a red hat, too…or should I get purple? Oh dear! I just have NOTHING to wear!