Not just nudity.

The many pillars of naturism we don’t promote.

Yet again, I have been moved to put pen to paper after reading another excellent article by Kevin and Corin from their “Ournaturistlife” blog.

Their recent post, “Congrats! You’ve Made Naturism Weird for Everyone” (link at the end of this blog) was a well-written critique aimed at the many people who post genital focussed images on naturist social media sites. As I read, I found myself nodding in agreement at the points that were raised.

After finishing the article, it occurred to me that given the different themes, or pillars, of naturism, why is nudity the one that naturists almost exclusively promote?

If you were trying to achieve broader acceptance in society, why pick the one characteristic that is arguably going to be the most difficult to sell?

It is a bit like trying to sell a Swiss Army Knife by only mentioning the thing for getting stones out of horses' hooves. There are so many other useful and appealing features to the tool, but if you only mention one component, people are unlikely to understand the appeal.

A lot of people think that nudism and naturism are the same thing, and that nudism is the US-centric term, whereas naturism is more of a European label.

People who follow a naturist philosophy tend to argue that this is not the case. Their idea is that nudism is simply the act of being naked, whereas naturism is a more holistic philosophy.

The International Naturist Federation (INF) defines naturism as:

A way of life in harmony with nature, characterised by the practice of communal nudity with the intention of encouraging self-respect, respect for others and for the environment.

While nudity is a central tenet of naturism, it is not the only aspect, and naturists spend a disproportionate amount of time debunking the misconception that naturism is carnal.

Naturists believe that nudity is not inherently sexual. Naturist spaces aim to be safe environments for everyone, including families, where social nudity is desexualised.

Naturists believe that all bodies are beautiful. We counter the unrealistic beauty images and standards perpetuated by the media (and society), embracing and respecting bodies without judgement.

Naturism boasts an attitude of respect. Respect for the self as well as respect for others. Mutual respect, consent and dignity encourage a safe environment for all.

Naturism encourages spending time outdoors, embracing a connection to nature and living in harmony with the environment.

Naturists claim that their philosophy is for everyone, no matter your age, gender identity, racial identity, religious beliefs, background, ability or body type. Naturist spaces are meant to be non-discriminatory and promote social equality. Arguably, some naturist spaces and organisations have a way to go to achieve this goal, but inclusivity is a core pillar of naturism.

Health and well-being are a major focus of naturism, with emotional, mental and physical benefits. Reduced stress and improved self-confidence are often claimed by those embracing naturism.

Many naturists advocate for conservation and sustainability. The rejection of consumerism and the environmental focus of naturism is perhaps one aspect of the philosophy that would resonate with more people.

Naturism rejects the artificial constraints of clothing and the increasingly negative impact of fast fashion on the environment.

Naturism, and for that matter nudism, are considered great social levellers. Without outward signs of wealth or status provided by clothing, everyone is equal.

Society's understanding, or perhaps misunderstanding, of naturism is an example of a pigeonholed perspective, and naturists do themselves no favours by continually advocating for the acceptance of nudity while ignoring other features of naturism. The posts of many claiming to be naturists are frequently faceless images focused on the genitals, so it is no surprise that society considers naturism to be a one-trick ideology rather than a valid lifestyle choice.

While naturism represents non-sexual nudity, body acceptance, self-respect and respect for others, a connection to nature, inclusivity, health and wellbeing, social equality and environmental responsibility, why do naturists seem to only promote social nudity?

Wouldn’t we find more allies and perhaps acceptance by focusing on some of the other pillars of our philosophy?

Hey society! Here is something to get behind.

Naturism stands for respect for yourself,
Naturism stands for respect for others,
Naturism stands for respect for nature,
Naturism stands for social equality,
Naturism stands for inclusivity,
Naturism stands for body positivity,
Naturism stands for health and well-being,
Naturism stands for environmental sustainability,
Naturism stands for simplicity,
Naturism stands for freedom.

On board so far? By the way, we also like to be naked.

While naturists all enjoy the clothes-free sensation, perhaps we shouldn’t be so focused on nudity if we want to find a broader acceptance.

When you limit your options, you really get good
at sticking to what's there. - Leo Babauta

Thank you for reading. Have a comfortable day.

Naturism:
Good for the environment, great for the soul.

Links:

Ournaturistlife blog: Congrats, you've made naturism weird for everyone.