Just give it a try...

Remember as a young child . . . the seemingly endless days of summer; the sprinkler going in the backyard; off come your clothes; the squeals of delight as you run through the water; jumping in the puddles; the feel of water, sun and breeze on your bare skin; the innocent fun and pure joy . . .

Maybe now as an adult . . . you dress at the last minute before leaving home; enjoying the lasting warmth of the shower; the kiss of air against your skin; lingering for as long as possible; the blissful feeling of being free from entrapments and stress . . .

To say life is busy is an understatement - it can be downright hectic even overwhelming at times. Work and leisure pull us several ways at once demanding every bit of energy and offering little or no respite or reward in return.

How recently have you just wanted to shake off the burdens and pressures of life, throw caution to the wind and experience that real freedom and pure innocent joy, of life as a child again?

Perhaps you have enjoyed a late night skinny-dip at the beach or taken advantage of a secluded spot at the river and gone for a quick swim and topless lie in the sun?

Naturism, nudism, skinny-dipping! It might have many names but just one meaning…non-sexual nudity and nude recreation!

You can shed the stresses of life, along with your clothes, and experience the many benefits of naturism which are wide and varied. From physical and mental health benefits; to therapy, stress release, pure freedom, and a sense of well-being; along with increased confidence and self esteem and also a connection with nature and natural vitamin D.

"Naturism is a way of life in harmony with nature, expressed through social nudity, linked to self-respect, tolerance of differing views together with respect for the environment”.  

- International Naturist Federation 

The New Zealand Naturist Federation aims to promote nude recreation and non-sexual nudity as a healthy, natural and freeing lifestyle.

You do not have to be a member of any organisation to be a naturist. You could start around your home - gardening nude in the backyard if it's private or vacuuming inside without clothes...you're going to get warm anyway! 

But there are three options available if you do want to join an existing NZNF affiliated organisation and experience naturism with like minded people: 

• Free Beaches NZ Inc - No, it’s not illegal. All around our country are many recognised clothes free/optional beaches, rivers, and hot springs where you can relax or throw a frisby without clothes. Have you experienced the benefits and pleasures of sunlight, air and water on your whole body - in the wide expanse of nature? Free Beaches New Zealand Inc is the society which exists in order to defend the rights of skinny-dippers, beach naturists and all people who love to “go natural” in the great outdoors.  

• NZ Naturists - Is a group administered by the NZNF for people who want to experience the freedom of nude recreation but may not be ready to join a club or there isn't one close by. Members receive a quarterly newsletter advising events around the country and a subscription to gonatural magazine. A NZNF membership card with INF sticker introduces you to naturist clubs around NZ and the world. 

• NZNF Clubs - Around the country there are 17 NZNF affiliated clubs which have their own grounds, facilities and often accommodation. Many have courts for volleyball, miniten - a smaller version of tennis - swimming pools and spas. Social and sporting events are regularly scheduled at clubs and facilities like a clubhouse mean you can go indoors when the weather is bad. To visit a club, you can contact them via links on our website.

For more information on naturism in New Zealand, or answers to questions you might have, go to the FAQ Page on our website or contact us at info@gonatural.co.nz.

So this summer, whether at home, at a beach or a club...just give it a try! You will not be disappointed with how set free and wonderful you feel.

The Turning Tide...?

Today I received and saved another media story on the topic of naturism.

Each year at their AGM, the NZNF presents a number of Press Prizes and one of the awards is for Best Article selected from non-naturist media, so for this purpose I ensure a copy of all media stories on naturism are kept on file.

This year the file is growing at an astonishing rate, but not for the reasons that you might think. 

So far, nine non-naturist media stories have been added and they are all, on the whole, positive. One has a very disappointing headline - which has been addressed with the newspaper involved - but all the journalists have displayed a good understanding in the content of the article of genuine naturists and the naturist lifestyle.

Two journalists have even written of their own recent experiences at a club or naturist park and one of those stories has so far made it into two major newspapers around the country - in the Escape section of one newspaper and in the "LIFE" lift-out magazine in the other! 

They say the best form of advertising is word of mouth. No price can pay for the sort of exposure stories like this can get us. And, without prompting, they recognised the place for such an article is in lifestyle sections like "escape" and "life". This goes right along with some of the philosophies we try to explain that naturism is about and we couldn't have put it better! 

In years gone past, a lot of the articles have been around tensions at recognised clothing optional beaches where recently arrived residents have been up in arms about the nude beach-goers. And last year there were very few media stories at all.

So what can we read into the spate of more positive, almost inquisitively themed, stories?

It might be too soon to say, but I would love to think that there is a turn in society towards tolerance of all people and all lifestyles. That even though naturism is not necessarily something everyone wants to take part in, that those who do are not shunned or thought of as weird or even perverts. 

Regardless of how long this current "love affair" with the media continues, the NZNF intends to make the most of their seeming understanding and acceptance towards naturism. 

We will continue to call them on misleading headlines and incorrect content, but we will also acknowledge and thank them when they get it right and regard the subject with objective intelligence and thoughtfulness.

So, what do you think? Are we seeing the start of a turning tide...? 

What Does Naturism Mean To You?

Naturism, nudism, skinny-dipping, clothes-free! It might have a lot of names but just one meaning…nude recreation! Non-sexual nudity.

What words would you use to describe what naturism means to you? 

You don't have to use the same words as everyone else - each person and their experience is real and unique to them.

Membership to a club doesn't mean that you're suddenly a naturist. And just because you prefer to only go without clothes at home doesn't mean that you aren't. 

It is not important whether you stroll along a nude beach or garden au naturel with the sun on your skin and the breeze in your hair. 

What is important is the freedom you feel and the benefits - which are numerous - that you discover in your body and mind. 

Why not share the words you would use to describe what naturism/nudism/clothes-free means to you...it might help someone to find their own words of what naturism means to them.

Going back to study...

In an attempt to connect with young people and share with them the joys and benefits of nude recreation and enjoying life naked, I contacted the tertiary organisations in the Auckland area. It's Orientation Week for a lot of these institutions so they are holding events and club information days/expos.

Today, with the help of Rick the Auckland region contact for Free Beaches NZ Inc. we set up a stall at Unitec Institute of Technology and chatted for four hours to students and staff and handed out flyers - starting with 100, coming home with 39.

What was our message? That it's not illegal; that it's beneficial for the body and mind; that it's a great way to unwind; that it brings you close to nature; and so much more. We talked about skinny-dipping and about being able to enjoy the experience at any time in appropriate places - and not just in the middle of the night after you've had a few. And we talked about the mutual respect and understanding amongst genuine naturists. 

The response was wide and varied as I suppose you could imagine. 

There were giggles and sniggers; there was polite consideration and genuine interest; and there were some shocked "goodness no thank you"s and some wouldn't even look at us. But each one left with a smile and a friendly experience.

At one stage in life I would have giggled behind my hand too so have to understand their reactions - especially in front of their friends. But, for lack of another metaphor, the seed has been sown and you just don't know when it will grow. 

We chatted to people of all cultures - from Asian and Indian to Island students. We even got a group of Island boys to hand some flyers out. 

We found the organiser very accommodating and supportive and would love to have us back again. The flyers we came home with will be sent to the student associations of tertiary organisations around the country in the hope they will put them on a noticeboard where even one student might see it and become interested. 

It was a lot of fun and I believe very valuable. 

Skinny-dip Down a Moonbeam

Have you every tried skinny-dipping? How about skinny-dipping down a moonbeam?

Well, this Saturday February 15th, you could try both...weather depending!

It will be a beautiful full moon that rises at 8:04pm on Saturday February 15th and the forecast for much of the country is looking mild if possibly even clear skies.

Why not get a bunch of friends and head to a beach near you, cast off your clothes and swim in the shimmering light the moon casts along the water as it rises above the horizon.

You could continue the Valentine's Day romance from the previous day, have a lovely picnic on the beach while awaiting the moonrise and then slip into the water discovering the magical experience of its silky warmness directly on your skin.

And if you aren't near a beach you could always try a river like this group in the photo on the Wairau River.

This event is promoted by Free Beaches NZ Inc. and more details are available on their website at:
www.freebeaches.org.nz/eventssdmb.htm

And for more information on the benefits of skinny-dipping and naturism go to:
http://gonatural.co.nz/news/1/24/Benefits-of-Naturism/

Facebook vs Naturism

MEDIA RELEASE: 30th October 2013
The New Zealand Naturist Federation uses Facebook extensively to promote the naturist lifestyle to a wide range of people - our aim being to “normalise nudity” and portray the many benefits it offers.

The social network has recently reversed a ban on a video allowing violence of the highest degree – the beheading of a woman in Mexico by a masked man – and yet our photos portraying nudity in a non-violent, non-sexual way remain banned.

The NZNF Communications Officer has received numerous bans of various lengths of time for posting images showing scenes at naturist clubs – used with permission – some with as little as a butt crack visible. And many other individuals such as breastfeeding mothers and breast cancer survivors have received similar bans with content blocked or removed.

A spokeswoman for the social network told BBC News “Facebook has long been a place where people turn to share their experiences, particularly when they’re connected to controversial events on the ground, such as human-rights abuses, acts of terrorism, and other violent events”.

The US firm have said that users should be free to watch and condemn the video in question. Surely with each user who comments or condemns the video, it is only generating a broader and wider reach of this despicable act – in effect glorifying it?

And surely this also directly contradicts Facebook’s own “Rights and Responsibilities” warning: "You will not post content that: is hate speech, threatening, or pornographic; incites violence; or contains nudity or graphic or gratuitous violence."

How exactly are you to ‘condemn’ this video that couldn’t be viewed as a ‘hate speech’? And it is both ‘graphic’ and ‘gratuitous’ violence.

Facebook is a social community maintained and moderated by them but the people who contribute and belong to the community should dictate, like any other society, the rules that surround it.

The ‘community’ hasn’t said they don’t want images of nudity or that a butt crack is offensive, Facebook has. Naturism is a social community - we are the community of Facebook.  

The Federation urges Facebook to reconsider the inconsistent application of its policy with respect to what is deemed to be offensive and revise its practices so that normal nudity is acceptable, semi-pornographic (scantily clad) content that is currently widely displayed is discouraged, and extreme violence should be banned.

The World of Nude Recreation

We have completed our blog series on discovering naturism. However the story is never ever completely told or finished.

There's my story; there's your story; and the story of every person who has ever engaged in clothes free recreation.

What brought us to this? What concerns did we first have? What was our initial experience like? How have we benefited - in our bodies and our self esteem? How has our life changed?

We each have a different journey and a different experience.

Your story might just encourage someone else to take the plunge and experience something life-changing for themselves.

So share your story and experience. You might like to write it down and share it on this blog or on our Facebook Page. Or maybe chat to a work colleague and open their mind to something new. Maybe they hadn't verbalised or consciously thought about looking into it, but something you mention just might click in them and they realise they do want to look into it. You could send them the links to our blog series on discovering naturism which might give them even more information.

If you are still on the path of discovery and a bit nervous about your first naturist club or beach visit, just remember that you don't have to take your clothes off the instant you get to the gates or carpark. Do it in your own time and when you feel comfortable...some of us take a bit longer than others and that's okay.

Always remember the precept that naturists live by which is essentially respect for yourself and respect for others too.

If you have a question that hasn't been covered in the information on our blog, please do not hesitate to email us at info@gonatural.co.nz or post a question on the blog.

FAQ - Part 2: Concerns about Naturism

In our second instalment of questions frequently asked about naturism, we look at concerns people might have or things they've heard about the lifestyle.

What about the dangers of the sun?

The naturist lifestyle is not just about lying around in the sun. Nonetheless, all people whether naturists or not, should take care in the sun and use common sense to avoid sunburn. Because naturists spend more time outdoors earlier in summer than the general population, they build up a tan more gradually. This avoids the danger faced by others of getting sunburnt in the rush to get a tan during limited summer holidays. Also naturists have been aware for a long time of the dangers of overexposure to the sun and they have adopted sensible preventive measures. Naturist venues tend to have lots of shade so people can get out of the sun.
No-one would disagree that sun BURN is dangerous, but recently, there has been a lot of literature about the benefits of sun EXPOSURE. This is due to the production of vitamin D which protects the body from many diseases including rickets, cancer, arthritis, osteoporosis, diabetes and cardiovascular disease amongst others.

Is naturism appropriate for families?

Absolutely! Naturism is about body acceptance and body awareness, which makes it appropriate for everyone. Therefore, families with children are welcome at naturist venues and events. Naturists do not deny the sexual nature of human beings, but they reject the all too prevalent view in our society that nudity and sex are synonymous and that children should be "protected" from nudity regardless of context. Nude is not lewd.

Is naturism good for children?

Children take to nudity like ducks to water. We all know how much children like to run around with no clothes on. Children are rarely self-conscious when nude. It is only as they get older that they adopt some of the social stigmas associated with nudity. When children reach puberty, they often are embarrassed about the changes in their body. But those brought up in a naturist environment develop a healthy attitude to their bodies and realise that this is nothing to be ashamed of. At most clubs, no pressure is ever put on children to undress if they don’t want to.

Is naturism safe for children?

Cases of children being upset by the sight of nude people are extremely rare. At a naturist club, children are completely safe. Members are screened before acceptance and will have their membership terminated if they behave inappropriately. Because they do not want this, it is never an issue. So it is a much safer environment for children than at (for example) a beach, where any member of the public can be present.

My body isn't perfect and I'm embarrassed about it

The concept of the perfect body is a myth and one which leads to a lack of self esteem and stress. At a naturist club, you will find all shapes, sizes, ages and colours but naturists will like you just as you are. Many people have scars, bumps, blemishes and the sign of surgical procedures. It isn't at all important what your body is like because people accept you in your entirety, as you are. Nudist clubs are a reflection of society at large - people come in all shapes and sizes.

Will I have to undress as soon as I arrive?

Most clubs allow newcomers several visits to get used to the joys of naturism. But the expectation is that when suitable weather conditions prevail and you feel comfortable, you will shed your clothes. Naturist clubs do not usually allow bathing suits to be worn in the pool, spa or sauna. But once you have experienced the joy of swimming naked you won’t want to wear them anyway. On naturist beaches, there is no expectation to undress, since they are clothing-optional. But if you go there and remain dressed, you may arouse suspicion and be approached as to your intentions.

How do we get over our inhibitions?

Nobody expects you to undress the minute you arrive on your initial visit, but in most cases you will quickly feel the relaxed atmosphere and see how comfortable nude people are with one another. Once you feel comfortable, which usually takes only a few minutes, you will probably feel like stripping off. But if you are still unsure, you will be given time to do it at your own pace. If you realise that naturism is not for you, your clothes will stay on and you will leave. In all honesty, few can resist the call of naturism once they have experienced it.

What if I’m ready to join but my spouse (partner, or friend) isn’t?

This is common. Typically, women are more wary than men of clothing-optional venues. But everyone, male and female, has "body issues." For some, the idea of being seen nude—and seeing others nude—is filled with psychological tension. A spouse, friend or partner can help reduce the tension, but only if caution and sensitivity are exercised. Remember, every naturist had a "first time." Many who were most reluctant initially are now avid naturists. And remember, too, that there is a fine line between encouragement and coercion. Don’t cross it if you want to introduce someone to naturism.

What if I meet my neighbour or boss at a naturist club?

They obviously have the same interests as you, so there will be no problem. There is no shame in being a naturist. You will find that you will enjoy new activities together that you didn’t do before. They would fully understand and would want to protect your enjoyment of naturism rather than jeopardise it.

I want to keep my lifestyle private - will my privacy be compromised?

Clubs affiliated to the NZNF understand that privacy is paramount to members and their families. There is never any requirement to be publicly identified. Most clubs do not allow photos to be taken around the grounds and have 'official photographers' for special events only. Photos at events are taken only with your permission and you should also be advised for what purpose or publication the image is being used. A lot of clubs adopt a "first name only" basis and professions are also not mentioned. 

What will my friends and families say if they find out I am a naturist?

They won't find out unless you choose to tell them. But if you try and hide the fact that you are a naturist, and they find out, they will wonder why you haven’t told them before. They may therefore think that it is something you are ashamed of or that it is something undesirable. But generally people are really interested in the subject. Just answer their questions honestly and openly and show them that being a naturist is a genuine lifestyle and something to be proud of.

My friends might think I am mixing with undesirables if I say I'm a naturist.

If your friends think that, they are speaking without knowledge and have assumed wrongly that nudity must mean amorality. Your friends couldn't be more wrong, so invite them along to the club to show them the truth. Naturists cover the complete range - singles, partners, married couples and most clubs are family orientated.

What if I get an erection?

Believe it or not, this almost never happens, especially if you are honestly worried about it, since anxiety and embarrassment are pretty much incompatible with erections. Most newcomers find it so natural at a naturist club that after a few minutes, they forget that they are naked. And in that same short time, you realise how non-sexual the situation is. The most important sex organ in the body is the brain, and if you aren't thinking sexually, your body will not respond sexually.
Of course, sometimes spontaneous erections do occur, but what is most important is what you do next. The best thing to do is ignore it and concentrate on whatever else you are doing, lie on your stomach or wrap your towel around you. If all else fails, a dip in a cold pool or ocean should fix it!

Doesn't communal nakedness cause sexual excitement?

Social conditioning has convinced a large part of the population that nakedness equates to sexuality. Consequently many people believe that men and women can not mix together naked without them becoming sexually stimulated. This is totally wrong. Being naked is a natural state and it is the experience of naturists worldwide that they can associate socially with other naked people without sexual arousal. Naturists believe that sex is a normal, healthy part of life, but one that should be enjoyed by consenting adults in private.

What do I do if I am menstruating?

This is a natural occurrence and it is one of the realities of life. If a woman is comfortable with a tampon, then this is the simplest method of dealing with the situation. If a sanitary pad is preferred, then she would wear a sarong, shorts or bikini bottoms. For the most part, a woman should use what she feels is less obtrusive for her personally. Others aren't going to notice or object.

What if we receive unwelcome advances?

This rarely happens. If it happens at a club or organisation simply report it to the person who met and showed you around or to a committee member and steps will be taken to ensure that it doesn't happen again. Everyone should feel comfortable. Behaviour that requires an apology is not tolerated.

For more information, go to our Benefits of Naturism page.

FAQ - Part 1: General Questions and Answers

Do you have questions about naturism and the naturist lifestyle? You might find the answers below...

What is naturism?

INF-FNI Definition: "Naturism is a way of life in harmony with nature, expressed through social nudity, linked to self-respect, tolerance of differing views together with respect for the environment".
Naturism is the practice of going nude, especially in a mixed social setting and is a lifestyle choice. Another term for it is 'nude recreation'. It is a feeling of freedom and, for many, social nudity is personally liberating. Through it, we come not only to accept ourselves but others as well.

What are the benefits of naturism?

Self-esteem is greatly enhanced in the nudist lifestyle - our own self-esteem increases when we accept ourselves for who we really are. Nudists respect each person's individuality and easily accept others for who they are rather than what they might be wearing. Some people say that when they shed their clothes, they also shed the stress and entrapments of their busy lives.

What is the difference between a nudist and a naturist?

No difference really. Some places around the world use the word nudist and others use naturist. The words can also relate to two different philosophies which have nudity in common. Naturists can be defined as having a broader philosophy which encompasses a more holistic approach to being naked. In contrast, a nudist is a person who just likes to be naked.

Who are naturists?

Broadly speaking, anyone who practices nude recreation, social nudity, or both. There are millions of naturists worldwide. No longer confined to small, secretive enclaves, today’s naturists have a variety of recreational and social outlets, whether it be in clubs, saunas or at the beach. There are naturists from all professions and occupations. Naturists are a cross-section of society. Some are young, some are older. Some are married, some are not. Some have strong religious beliefs whilst others have none. Naturism is a great equaliser.

What do naturists mean when they talk about "social nudity" and "nude recreation"?

When naturists talk about "social nudity" and "nude recreation" they mean just that—naked group social activities. At a club, many play sport, including volleyball, petanque, tenniquoits or the naturists’ version of tennis – miniten. Others mow the lawn around their campsite or cabin, do the housework or just relax with a good book. For the more adventurous, there are nude hiking, kayaking, and scuba diving — even skydiving. Most things that can be done clothed can be done unclothed—and usually it’s a lot more enjoyable.

Why do people choose nude recreation?

Nude recreation embraces the pure joy of living - to relax and be nude is to let yourself be totally free. Nude recreation is a great way of getting back to basics - experiencing and appreciating nature in the most natural way possible - and totally unwinding. Relaxation, stress relief, positive body image, and increasing self-esteem are just a few of the reasons people choose the nudist lifestyle.

Is naturism offensive?

It is hard to believe that some people do find something as natural as a naked body offensive. It is probably more embarrassment that they are experiencing. But the philosophy of naturism is not to offend.

Is social naturism legal?

In New Zealand, it is legal to be naked in appropriate public places, such as beaches. It is not the lack of clothes that is the issue but the behaviour that goes with it. Nonetheless, while laws that specifically prohibit nudity and equate it with "indecent exposure" are rare, that should not be taken as an invitation to get naked "anytime, anyplace." In general, commonsense should prevail, and in most situations, a sharp distinction is obvious between lewd behaviour and simple nudity, such as sunbathing and skinny-dipping.

What is the difference between a club and a free beach?

Free beaches are public areas which have become nude through use by naturists, and thus do not require membership. Clubs are private grounds which are owned by the members and therefore have their own rules. Most clubs will allow you two or three visits before you need to decide whether to join or not. Once you belong to a club, you are given an International Naturist Federation membership card, which allows you to visit any club worldwide. As clubs are owned by their members, it is common etiquette that you phone before visiting and pay any fees.

Beach vs Club?

Fewer rules
Less expensive
Bigger range of people (not all known to everyone)
Clothing optional
Sand in the volleyball court!

Club vs Beach?

Members screened, so a safer environment
Regular members who make it easier to make lasting friendships
Clubhouses, pools, spas, and other amenities
No sand to get into everything
Indoor spaces when the weather gets bad
Social activities

Are there other groups apart from clubs where I can participate?

In New Zealand, there is Free Beaches NZ Inc., which is affiliated to the NZNF and protects the rights of people who use public beaches for the practise of naturism. Also, there are a group of naturists called NZ Nudvan Club who enjoy travelling the country with their campervans, caravans or tents, visiting different places. Once a month they get together to hold a rally. There are two commercial naturist parks which have all the facilities of a regular camping ground, plus a number of naturist homestays, which are private homes owned by naturists. These offer bed and breakfast, on-site vans or camping and are a good way of easing into naturism. The owners can answer all your questions and being a more private setting, it is a good place to start if you are not sure about the naturist lifestyle. If you are not sure about joining a club just yet, then you should consider becoming a member of the New Zealand Naturists. This is a good way to find out about the naturist lifestyle and clubs in your area, which one day you might like to belong to.

I don’t have to join a naturist club to be a naturist, do I?

Of course not, but a lot of people say the naturist experience is greatly enhanced by joining a club. Whether you skinny-dip, go to clothing-optional beachs, or just lie naked in the sun in your back yard - you are living the 'natural style of life' - naturism.

What is the difference between exhibitionism and naturism?

An exhibitionist will expose their body to shock others or seek attention. Naturists do not agree with this type of behaviour. An exhibitionist will soon lose interest at a naturist club as the “Wow – look at me” factor is non-existent. Naturists just enjoy being nude.

Do people go naked all the time at a naturist venue?

Certainly not. When the weather is bad, or you are performing some task where clothing is required for protection, or you are getting sunburnt, it is perfectly normal and sensible to wear something. We all have different tolerances to heat and cold. Naturists go without clothes when it is sensible to do so, e.g. when swimming, playing sport, or just relaxing. Women when menstruating often wear shorts or a sarong and can do so without any problem.

Nudity must be sexual – right?

Wrong! The public have a misconception that nakedness must be sexual as most people only undress to take a shower or have sex. But naturists know there are other situations (i.e. normal daily life) where you can be naked and feel good without it being sexual. Naturists are not against sexuality but agree that there are appropriate times and places to experience it. A totally naked body is less sexual than a person wearing a skimpy bikini or G-string and people will always find others attractive, whether they are dressed or not.

How do I become a naturist?

Perhaps the best way to become a naturist is with the help of a friend or spouse who is a naturist. Another option is to contact a naturist venue near you from this web page and arrange for a visit (see Locations & Events). All naturist organisations welcome new members and do their best to ease them comfortably into the world of naturism. You don’t have to take your clothes off right away – do it gradually if you prefer. Or, if it simply doesn’t feel right, just leave. You can always come back and try again. But remember: if you go to a clothing-optional beach and remain clothed for too long, people might start thinking you are there for the wrong reasons.

Do clubs welcome single people or just couples?

Most clubs have a number of single members. But to maintain a balance of gender, all clubs have various rules about their membership demographics, so you should contact the appropriate club to find out their stance on this.

What should I take with me to a naturist venue?

The same things you would take when going to the beach (except a bathing suit)! Also some warm clothes (in case of a change in the weather) and of course an open mind. And a towel to sit on, if you do strip off.

Are there any special rules?

The same rules apply in the naturist environment as in the clothed environment. Always respect the rights of others. When visiting a club, as when visiting other's homes, respect their rules.

• Always carry a towel with you to sit on.

• Don’t stare at others. When talking to others, act just as you would if they were dressed.

• Don’t engage in overt sexual activity.

• Many clubs do not allow cameras or camera cell phones, so check out their rules before visiting. Always ask the permission of subjects in the photo BEFORE taking the snap.

• Get dressed when leaving the club. Naturists are not trying to offend anyone.

• Respect people’s property.

• Respect people’s privacy. Many people go to their club to relax. Be friendly but not overbearing.

• Report any misconduct to a member of the club committee.

For more information, go to our Benefits of Naturism page.

Benefits of Naturism - Part 2: Lifestyle, Freedom & Family

The benefits of naturism are wide and varied. From health benefits to therapy; from getting close to nature and the simple pleasures of pure freedom...let us show you how you and your body can benefit from the lifestyle that is nude recreation - or naturism.

Lifestyle:

The naturist lifestyle allows you to experience the true ‘freedom’ of exposing your whole body to nature’s elements. It is a lifestyle choice, and you will find, after you have experienced and dispelled all the myths surrounding it, you can live a normal life naked in a safe environment.

Apart from the obvious health benefits, many people join a naturist club to socialise with like-minded people. Most clubs have either accommodation or camping facilities. So you can spend a relaxed holiday in an on-site cabin, in your caravan or tent or just visit for the weekend or a day. Most have a spa, some with a sauna, and a swimming pool. The clubhouse allows socialising on a regular basis, even on a wet day or in the evenings.

Clubs are open all year round and many hold monthly social gatherings. During the winter, events are held around the fire in the clubhouse or at a member’s home. Some hold swim nights at a local heated indoor pool, followed by a meal out.

Children are catered for as well. There are playgrounds, swimming pools and plenty of safe grounds for the children to play in. And some have a youth hall where the children can entertain themselves while the parents relax.

You never have to feel alone when a member of a naturist club. There is something for everyone.

Recreation and Enjoyment:       

For the sports minded, many clubs have sports courts for playing socially. This includes Miniten (the naturist’s version of tennis), volleyball, petanque, Tenniquoits and indoor sports such as table tennis, darts or pool. Many clubs have competitions in these sports.

If you are not into sport, all clubs have expansive grounds, planted in bush or lovely gardens. So you can just relax and unwind in a peaceful setting or if you like to keep busy, there are other outdoor activities that you can partake in, such as gardening or grounds maintenance.

Every year, over the New Year period, a National Festival is held at a naturist club and this is a great time to meet up with new friends or renew old acquaintances from previous festivals. Sports competitions are generally also held on a national level at the festival and there are plenty of social events to attend.

Many naturists join together into special interest groups and organise such events as nude tramping, cycle rides, car rallies or meals out. Some book out local vineyards or restaurants for a nude dining experience.

Whether it is meeting up with friends, playing sport, attending social events or just relaxing, naturism can give you a great deal of enjoyment. There is always something going on and you never need to feel alone. 

Freedom:     

The sense of freedom when you remove the 'entrapments of civilisation’ is fantastic. It is simply more comfortable to be free of clothing. The sheer joy of diving into water without a clinging costume has to be experienced to be understood.  

Having the wind blow across all your body is a sensuous feeling which is enhanced by the warmth of the sun. You have no clothing restricting your movement, which makes playing sport easier and instead, your body is as it should be – free!

Connection with nature:

Some people feel more connected with nature when naked. For example, gardening naked is a great way to feel invigorated, liberated and at one with nature. The touch of plants against the skin and the feeling of grass under your feet awakens the tactile senses and the birds seem to accept you more as part of the surroundings when you are naked.

Couple ‘therapy’ (joining because of the other partner):

A recent survey of naturists found that many joined because their partner wanted to. Often one person in the couple is not as keen as the other, but many times the reluctant partner ends up being the keenest, once naturism has been experienced. 

Because naturism can lead to a person, especially a woman, liking herself more and gaining more confidence she will look and feel more radiant leading to a relationship flourishing.

Family participation:

Remember the ‘good old days’ when Mum, Dad and the kids all went out together in the weekends? Naturism is so good for quality ‘family time’ together. 

Naturism is great for kids. Children who have grown up in a naturist environment have a better understanding and acceptance of all body shapes and sizes and how they develop. They grow up familiar with people of all ages and free of the usual curiosity about the human body and naturism gives children a healthy attitude to people of the opposite sex. Children are natural naturists and are usually too busy playing or making new friends to worry about the general lack of clothing.

There are more benefits to living the naturist lifestyle and there are many that are individual or unique to you. We'd love to hear about your experience and how your life has benefitted from living clothes free - maybe add your story or a comment to this post.

Benefits of Naturism - Part 1: Health & Self Esteem

The benefits of naturism are wide and varied. From health benefits to therapy; from getting close to nature and the simple pleasures of pure freedom...let us show you how you and your body can benefit from the lifestyle that is nude recreation - or naturism.

Health:

Sun exposure and vitamin D

Despite negative publicity on the risk of skin cancer from too much sun exposure, it is sun burn that leads to skin cancer not sun exposure.

Naturism is more about doing normal, everyday activities, without the encumbrance of clothing when it is actually not required than lying about in the sun to get an all over suntan. The area of skin covered by a bathing suit doesn't really make much difference when out in the sun - the same precautions have to be taken naked or in togs and sun protection is always advisable when out in the sun, especially between 10am and 3pm in the summer months.

There is a lot of literature on the benefits of the sun on the body due to the production of vitamin D in response to sun exposure. The most natural way to get vitamin D is by exposing your bare skin to sunlight and the recommended ‘dose’ of sunlight on the total body, required to maintain adequate vitamin D levels, is considered by many specialists to be half the time it takes to burn per day. Not only does it feel good, but the sun has been documented to be beneficial in the prevention of a large number of diseases, from rickets to some forms of cancer (including melanoma), arthritis, osteoporosis, diabetes, asthma and cardiovascular disease.

Mental health

Being naked outdoors on a sunny day isn't sexual, but it is sensual – a delight to your senses – creating a feeling of well-being. Researchers are now discovering that vitamin D may play an important role in mental health and in depression. We all know how invigorating the sun can be and how depressed we can feel in the winter, during days and days of cloud and rain...it even has a name SAD (seasonal affective disorder). Naturism allows us to feel the breeze over the whole body and the cool grass under our feet. Add swimming without clammy togs into the mix, and you get a total stimulation of the tactile (touch) senses. 

In today’s world, where stress seems to be 'part of the deal', a visit to a naturist club can let you totally unwind. We often use the expression ‘shed your stresses with your clothes’ and that is totally true - once you get through the gate and dispense with your clothes, all your stresses can be felt draining away as nature’s elements caress your whole body.

Naturists know they lead a much healthier life, physically and mentally due to the euphoria which creates a sense of well-being that can only be experienced to understand it. 

Self Esteem:

Along with the increase in euphoria created by exposing the whole body to nature’s elements, naturism helps to increase confidence and self esteem. Once people shed their clothes they regard each other as equal individuals and pay little heed to status symbols - people are accepted as themselves and they can truly relax. The naturist philosophy encourages the acceptance of all people, no matter who they are or what they look like - what your body looks like becomes irrelevant 'you are you’, and we are basically all the same underneath.

Many people, women especially, think that their body isn’t good enough to show to others. However they needn't worry - there are all shapes and sizes, colours and creed in the general population and the same exists in a naturist environment but everyone is accepted without prejudice. Some have experienced surgery, childbirth, or have scars from accidents, but social nakedness quickly shows you that you are accepted for who you are not what you look like - there is no need to worry about how your body compares with someone else’s.

You will gain more confidence and feel totally ‘comfortable in your skin’.

Make sure you "stay tuned" for Part 2 where we will talk more about the benefits of naturism - lifestyle, freedom and family.