What to do, what to say if someone finds out that I’m a naturist?

This question is a pretty classic one among new or aspiring naturists. While naturism is a way of life shared by millions, the stigma attached to it is very present. Associating nudity with sexuality is obvious in our society. If naturists know that our art of life has no sexual connotation, the image is sometimes difficult to erase in the collective unconscious. Here are some ideas for proudly accepting the look of others and demonstrating the values of naturism.

People don’t care!

Others don’t care. Whether you’re a naturist, a hiker or a choral singer, nobody gives it a damn. Not that your passion, your profession or your lifestyle interests anybody. Usually, however, the people you meet will continue to live their lives without worrying about yours.

Naturism, like many other subjects, often challenges ideas. We’re responsible, us naturists, to tell what it is and is not. But don’t worry too much! Assume that most of the people you say you’re a naturist won’t care. They will be almost always astonished, they’ll grin sometimes, and will rarely be shocked. However, you will have a great opportunity to speak about naturism.

You’re a naturist, so what?

Naturism is a natural, normal and very healthy lifestyle. Here’s, for the record, the official definition of naturism: “Naturism is a way of life in harmony with nature characterised by the practice of communal nudity intending to encourage self-respect, respect for others and for the environment.”

As we can see, this definition is simple and nice. You and other naturists don’t necessarily adhere to this definition, yet it’s simple and full of common sense. Some practice naturism for the wellbeing it provides, others to be in communion with nature, others for its community side. However, by spending some time in a naturist place, we soon realize that the keyword is well “Respect.” Are you a naturist? Respect is probably a value you agree on. It’s a strength!

Proud to be a naturist

Naturism is a beautiful art of life that puts the human at its core. Naturists are often kinder and more open than non-naturists. That is due to the fact that naturists don’t judge others on their appearance. Naked, we have nothing to hide. Our body flaws are visible, exposed. We become vulnerable, that’s what makes naturism beautiful and noble.

Naturism must be a pride, nudity its standard. The naked body is our natural clothing. Society and its morals sexualized the naked body. A small child will naturally dispose of his or her clothes for frolic. It’s only by inculcating the shame of his body that he or she will keep his or her clothes. Embracing naturism and keeping nudity natural and normal, he or she will become an adult who is comfortable with his or her body and accept it as it is.

Rather than letting others discover that you’re a naturist, tell it. Be upfront! Here are some ideas. You’re invited to a barbecue with friends who have a swimming pool. Ask them if they’re bothered if you bathe naked. You arrive at an AirBnB or other rental property, ask your hosts if they’re okay for you to stay naked in the garden or in the pool. You invite friends to your home for a lunch in the garden and an afternoon at the pool, inform them that you will be naked and that they can do the same. In other words, talk about your naturism. You’re not risking anything but a polite refusal. In any case, you create an opportunity to speak and share naturism.

So, if somebody finds out you’re a naturist, confirm it with pride. Naturism embraces the respect of oneself, others and the environment. It’s an art of life that we need to share. So, before somebody finds out you’re a naturist, take the lead, say it, share it and let the magic operate.

Photo M.T ElGassier on Unsplash